Talenti
Talenti is an American gelato brand produced by Unilever. Founded in 2003 by Josh Hochschuler in Dallas, the company began as a gelateria based on Argentine gelato methods. After pivoting to wholesale, Talenti was acquired by Unilever in 2014 and is now the best-selling gelato brand in America.
The Story
Talenti began in 2003 when Josh Hochschuler opened a small gelateria in Dallas, Texas, after falling in love with Argentine gelato during his years working in Buenos Aires. The shop became a local sensation, but the retail model proved unprofitable. By 2004, Hochschuler closed the storefront and pivoted to wholesale distribution, apprenticing with his Argentine partner to master traditional gelato-making techniques.
The breakthrough came in 2009 when Talenti secured a major account with Publix Super Markets. Sales exploded from that single deal, reaching $26 million by 2011 and approximately $95 million by 2013. Unilever acquired Talenti in December 2014 after 18 months of negotiation, and Hochschuler stayed on to run the business through 2016, growing sales to $245 million.
In 2017, production moved from Marietta, Georgia, to Unilever's central ice cream facility in Sikeston, Missouri. In March 2024, Unilever announced plans to divest its ice cream brands, including Talenti, as part of a restructuring. The divestment was completed in December 2025, leaving Talenti as the best-selling gelato brand in America.
Key Facts & Metrics
Company Timeline
2003 — Founded as Dallas gelateria
Josh Hochschuler opened the first Talenti gelateria in Dallas, Texas, based on traditional Argentine gelato-making methods.
2004 — Pivoted to wholesale distribution
Closed the unprofitable storefront and shifted to producing gelato for restaurants and grocery stores.
2007 — Secured $1 million investment
Brought in seasoned entrepreneurs Steve Gill and Eddie Phillips as investors, who bought out original storefront investors.
2009 — Won Publix account
Secured a breakthrough account with Publix Super Markets after a $500,000 radio ad guarantee, marking a major turning point.
2014 — Acquired by Unilever
Unilever acquired Talenti in December 2014 after 18 months of negotiation.
2017 — Production moved to Missouri
Manufacturing moved from Marietta, Georgia, to Unilever's central ice cream facility in Sikeston, Missouri.
