United Dairy Farmers Inc.

Started in 1938 by Carl Lindner Sr., United Dairy Famers (UDF) has its roots in the dairy business. Over time, ice cream became a local favorite, and Lindner’s family opened more stores. By 1950, there were nine stores, and in 1958 the chain completed a major plant expansion. In the 1960s and 1970s, the stores were remodeled to add merchandising space for convenience-store products.

The chain’s new superstores feature self-service gas islands, expanded ice-cream fountains and sit-down parlors. UDF’s Homemade Brand ice cream also is sold in grocery stores in at least 16 states.

UDF stores differentiate themselves from the competition by offering sit-down ice-cream parlors and becoming part of the neighborhood.

Stores offer several private-label products, including milk, packaged ice cream, and ice cream to go, coffee, soft drinks and water. All are branded under the UDF label.