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Emack & Bolio's facts for kids
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Industry | Retail |
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Founded | 1975 |
Founder | Robert Rook |
Headquarters | United States |
Area served
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China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, UAE, USA |
Products | Ice cream, chocolate, hot fudge, smoothies |

Emack & Bolio's on Newbury Street in Boston
Emack & Bolio's is a popular chain of ice cream stores. It started in Boston, Massachusetts, in the United States.
History of Emack & Bolio's
How It Started
Emack & Bolio's was founded in 1975 by a man named Robert Rook. He was a lawyer who also believed in peace and helping others. Robert Rook worked with many people who needed support. This included people without homes and those who were protesting the Vietnam War. He also helped people fighting for equal rights. He even worked with famous rock bands like Aerosmith and U2.
The first Emack & Bolio's store opened three years before another famous ice cream company, Ben & Jerry's. Emack & Bolio's quickly became known for its unique style. Today, you can find their stores in several states. These include New York, Florida, New Jersey, Illinois, and of course, Massachusetts.
Growing Across the World
Emack & Bolio's started to open stores in other countries in 2014. The first international locations were in Bangkok, Thailand, and Abu Dhabi, UAE. In 2015, new shops opened in Xian, China, and Hong Kong. By 2017, Emack & Bolio's had stores in six different countries across Asia.
What's in a Name?
The name "Emack & Bolio's" has a special story. Robert Rook named the ice cream shop after two homeless men. He had provided them with free legal help. These two men, Emack and Bolio, became like mascots for the very first store. They were a reminder of the founder's commitment to helping others.