Sammie’s Soft Serve and More has new owner

The new owner of Sammie’s Soft Serve and More in Highland doesn’t plan any major changes to the business, maybe just adding a few sprinkles on top.

“I’m going to keep everything the same. When I bought the business, everyone begged me not to change the ice cream,” said Peggy Price.

The ice cream flavors and texture will be the same, and she’s going to keep the lobby exactly as it was before. But she also has a few new ideas as well, including having live music, Karaoke and children’s nights.

“I love events and this business is for families. Your clients and customers are kind of like your family, and I want to build a big family,” said Price, a Granite City native who previously worked in marketing, public relations, TV and radio. “I’ve already made friends with lots of people, especially the ones who come every day.”

“I had worked for different friends’ businesses and helped them set up,” she said. “I’ve done marketing for small businesses for 15 years.”

But she was looking for a change. That’s when her father told her about an ice cream shop in Highland that was for sale. Price gobbled up the opportunity.

“As soon as a heard about this, I jumped on it,” she said.

The new Sammie’s will be open seven days a week, and the hours are expanding.

“I want people to know we are open on Mondays now,” Price said. “We are hiring extra help because it’s just me right now.”

She also wants to add snack foods to the menu, too.

The last day for ice cream will be Oct. 31, and will be the day of one of the largest events of the year.

“We are going to have huge party, like a costume contest and trick-or-treating. People love to come sit around the fire and eat their ice cream,” Price said. “Not many other places have what we have.”

This story was originally published July 6, 2016 at 12:50 PM with the headline "Sammie’s Soft Serve and More has new owner."