A brand new ice cream shop has had a busy start to life at Oxford’s Westgate shopping centre.

Gelato eatery Snowflake first announced that it would open a new store at the city centre spot last month when pink hoardings were put up around an empty unit.

Located next to Joe & the Juice on the lower ground floor level of the shopping centre, the advertising informed that the eatery would open up soon.

Not long after this on Thursday, October 24, Snowflake officially opened its doors to customers and business has been going well since according to their head of marketing Alex Diaconu.

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There are many different ice cream flavours to pick from.There are many different ice cream flavours to pick from. (Image: Newsquest)

“We’re absolutely thrilled to be opening our doors in Oxford’s Westgate shopping centre and to finally bring Snowflake Gelato to this vibrant city,” he said.

“Launching our new location has been an incredible experience, and we’re grateful to the Oxford community for the warmth and enthusiasm they’ve shown.

“On opening day, as we awaited final approval on our licence, we were astounded to see a queue forming outside - locals eager to welcome us even before our doors were officially open.

“Once we began serving, there was a steady stream of visitors and the energy in the shop was simply amazing.”

Queues have regularly been spotted at the ice cream shop since its opening and those who have sampled the goods think it’s the real deal.

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The décor inside Westgate's latest addition.The décor inside Westgate's latest addition. (Image: Newsquest)

“I had the kinder ice cream cone and it was really nice,” said one customer.

“It wasn’t too sweet but it was still chocolatey with a very smooth texture.”

Alex, who has been with the company since 2023, also revealed what sets the ice cream apart from other brands.

“Our gelato is crafted with organic ingredients and Jersey milk to ensure a flavour that’s as fresh and pure as possible,” he said.

“This dedication to quality is what fuels some of our most loved offerings, like the Snow Mango, which has captured the hearts of a younger audience after it went viral over the summer.

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Inside the new Snowflake eatery at the Westgate.Inside the new Snowflake eatery at the Westgate. (Image: Newsquest)

“We’re happy to see that Oxford’s younger crowd is just as excited to try these signature products and become part of our Snowflake family.”

Westgate shopping centre already houses a host of well-known brand names and Alex is proud that Snowflake is now among them.

“Being part of the Westgate community is a huge honour for us,” he said.

“We’re located in a prime spot with high footfall, allowing us to introduce the Snowflake experience to locals and visitors alike.

“We’re also incredibly grateful for the emails we’ve received from Oxford residents, expressing their excitement and support which has only deepened our sense of connection with this community.

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“Oxford is a city known for its appreciation of both tradition and fresh, innovative ideas, and we see a beautiful alignment between that spirit and our Snowflake brand.”

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