About us
Australian started out as a small shop in Knokke. It has since evolved into a Belgian and international chain. Travel back to 1989 to discover how it all began:
Australian Home Made Ice Cream is a large family of small, self-employed franchisees. The story begins in 1983, when Frederik Van Isacker starts experimenting with an old-fashioned ice cream maker to develop the perfect recipe. It’s an ice cream maker with a history. Indeed, Frederik’s grandfather formerly used it in his seaside hotel.
A few years later, in 1989, the very first store opens on the corner of Lippenslaan and Dumortierlaan in Knokke. Frederik has just returned from a honeymoon spent visiting family in Australia. While there, he reveals his plans for an ice cream shop to his godmother. His first season is an instant success, and she decides to give him a financial boost to continue expanding his business. Thus, with a nod to Frederik’s proud Australian godmother, Australian Home Made Ice Cream is born.
That first season benefits from exceptionally clement weather. The old-fashioned ice cream maker from the Saint Georges hotel is churning out freshly prepared ice cream in the shop on a daily basis. Frederik sells so many ice creams during the course of the day, that he only has time to bake the cones at night.
New stores soon follow in other seaside towns, including De Panne and Koksijde. The company’s huge success leads to the creation of a franchise model. The first store in inland Belgium opens at the beginning of the 21st century, in Woluwe Shopping Center. With some 38 stores dotted throughout Belgium, Australian is a tried and trusted brand.
Frederik now begins targeting the foreign market with his second brand, Fred’s. In addition to the head office and stores in Luxembourg, there are outlets in France and plans for Spain and the Caribbean. They might operate as separate companies, but Australian and Fred’s both share the same philosophy. And, together, they’re ready to conquer the world.
In 2019, the company will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a new external management team. Meanwhile, Fred’s is working hard to break into France and Australian’s operations will be centralised in Zaventem. With a creative and artist like Frederik Van Isacker, Australian Home Made Ice Cream has a lot of experience to rely on. With Delphine and her open mind at hand, the company is looking fully into the future and new challenges. Without losing sight of the quality of their products.
2022: Mathieu Verdun, nephew & godson of Mr Van Isacker and previously successful operator of Australian shop on Meir for 6 years, joins the management team and also becomes minority shareholder. 20/12/2023 Mathieu Verdun acquires 100% of the shares and becomes owner. Thanks to his input and knowledge of the domain, combined with an experienced management team, Australian/Fred’s is ready for new challenges.
