Who doesn’t love free gelato? But here’s the twist: this isn’t just about the sweet treat—it’s about a community coming together to shape something special. Spilt Milk gelato bar in Dickson is on a mission to rebrand, and they’re calling on Canberrans to help choose a new name! This isn’t your average rebranding story; it’s a tale of passion, community, and the power of a scoop to bring people together.
Omer Siddiq, the owner of Spilt Milk, didn’t just buy a gelato bar in 2023—he bought a piece of happiness. As he puts it, ‘I’m in the business of selling smiles more than selling food.’ Unlike his other venture, Patty Smith’s, where burgers are a quick fix for hunger, gelato is about indulgence and joy. ‘You don’t need gelato,’ Omer explains, ‘but you get a scoop to make you feel good.’
But here’s where it gets controversial: Spilt Milk isn’t just about gelato. Omer has made it a priority to give back to the community, donating ice cream to school events, fundraising for local charities, and collaborating with small businesses. This rebranding isn’t just a name change—it’s a statement. ‘The new brand is about solidifying where we want to be as a business,’ Omer says. ‘We’ve done a lot of work behind the scenes to get involved with the local community, and I want the new brand to embody that.’
And this is the part most people miss: the rebrand will also clarify that the Dickson store is independently owned and operated, separate from the original Spilt Milk in Orange, NSW. Plus, it’ll avoid any confusion with the popular music festival of the same name. It’s a win-win, right? But what should the new name be? That’s where you come in.
Canberrans are invited to flex their creative muscles and suggest a new name via the comments on Spilt Milk’s Instagram post or in-store at Dickson. The winning entry? They’ll score a free year’s supply of gelato—that’s a 1.5-litre tub every week for 52 weeks! ‘How cool would it be for a local to say, ‘I named that store!’?’ Omer muses.
Looking ahead, the rebranded gelato bar will deepen its local connections, partnering with businesses, suppliers, and community organizations. ‘The product will still be brilliant,’ Omer assures. ‘People love it because it puts a smile on their face.’ And with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, he believes the gelato will be even better. ‘When you work with local bakeries, you know it’s been baked that day!’
So, what do you think? Can a gelato bar truly embody the spirit of a community? And what name would you choose to capture that essence? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
Spilt Milk is located at Unit 70/2 Cape St, Dickson. Follow them on Instagram @spiltmilkbardickson and submit your name idea before 13 February. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this sweet transformation!
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