02/05/2025
Dear Bertie’s loyal customers,
It is with a heavy heart but immense gratitude that after ten wonderful years, we will say goodbye to Bertie’s ice cream shops. I was informed recently by Jim Collins, manager, that he plans to retire this year. After careful deliberation, with full consideration of the extraordinary work that Jim does daily, I realize that I will not be able to dedicate the attention required to continuing the business. My primary business does not allow me the time and focus required to properly run the ice cream shops.
Thank you, Jim, for taking my vision of the shops and making it a reality. You have done a masterful job operating the business for the last decade. You have created delicious ice cream and happy memories for our customers and employees. Also, thank you to our staff. You all did a wonderful job. Jim spoke highly of you all! I wish you all a healthy and successful future.
Lastly, thank you to our loyal customers and friends. As a fan of ice cream and a person who has built my career in the dairy business, it brought me great joy to own these shops. Bertie’s wasn’t just a place to scoop cones, it was a gathering place for championship teams, birthdays, after school or simply a treat on a hot summer day. The kindness and support from the community will stay with me always.
With the utmost gratitude,
Stephen Ward
Bertie’s Ice Cream
Cape Dairy Group
