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US ice cream company Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches is investing $5.8 million to establish a new production facility and corporate headquarters in Richmond, Virginia, a project expected to create 166 new jobs.

Founded in 2016 by husband-and-wife team Hannah Pollack and Xavier Meers, Nightingale produces small-batch, handcrafted ice cream sandwiches made with non-GMO ingredients and no artificial additives. The company’s products are now sold in more than 5,000 stores across the US, including Whole Foods Market, Kroger, The Fresh Market and Harris Teeter.

With its rapid growth outpacing its current production space, Nightingale will relocate to a 29,000-square-foot facility on a 5.01-acre site originally built in 1983. Of this, 24,000 square feet will be dedicated to production.

Governor Glenn Youngkin described the expansion as a “win for the Commonwealth,” citing its contribution to job creation and local business growth.

Senator Ghazala Hashmi added: “I congratulate Hannah Pollack and Xavier Meers for the wonderful and continued success of Nightingale Ice Cream Sandwiches. Theirs is truly a Richmond and American story of grit, determination and perseverance. Their expansion of operations within Richmond itself and the creation of 166 new jobs demonstrates Nightingale’s commitment to our city and its people.”

Nightingale Ice Cream's CEO, president and co-founder, Hannah Pollack, commented: “What began in the kitchen of a Richmond restaurant has grown into something beyond what we ever imagined. Receiving this support from the Commonwealth is an incredible honour and a powerful vote of confidence in our vision. We’re deeply grateful for the support which will help us accelerate our growth while staying true to our Richmond, Virginia roots. As we expand, our commitment to this community remains stronger than ever.”