Man Started Ice Cream Truck Business to Destress from His Paramedic Job. Now, He’s Making Six Figures

In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, a unique venture emerged from the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire. James Shemmeld, a 46-year-old man with a background in emergency services, has found an unexpected avenue for both community engagement and self-care through an ice cream business.

Shemmeld initially ran an ambulance service during the pandemic, a role that quickly became emotionally taxing. As he visited patients in their homes, he was met with the harsh reality that many of those he checked on would later pass away. This relentless cycle of loss took a toll on his mental well-being. Recognising the need for a positive outlet, Shemmeld’s wife encouraged him to find a hobby that could help alleviate his stress.

In a surprising turn, Shemmeld decided to purchase an ice cream van, a choice that took his wife quite off guard. Reflecting on his childhood, he shared that he once worked for an ice cream vendor who later entrusted him with a Ford Transit. After designing the artwork for his initial van, Shemmeld felt a deep sense of nostalgia and joy in reviving this slice of his past. “Who gets given something like that?” he mused, recognising the serendipity of carrying on a legacy from his youth.

Since the inception of his enterprise in 2020, Shemmeld has expanded his operations significantly, now owning four ice cream trucks that serve various localities and events nationwide. Describing the experience as “magical,” he enjoys the simplicity of the job. “You don’t have to think or focus on anything,” he mentioned, adding that interacting with customers while playing nostalgic tunes creates a jovial atmosphere.

Financially, Shemmeld’s ice cream venture is thriving, contributing an average income of £60,000 annually, alongside the £200,000 he earns as a private paramedic. Interestingly, despite the profitability of his ice cream sales, which are priced at a mere £1, he emphasizes that his true motivation isn’t monetary. Instead, it lies in the joy he brings to his community.

Balancing his dual roles, Shemmeld has begun to train additional drivers to assist with his ice cream business, which operates every day of the week. While the ice cream venture has grown to become his primary focus, he continues to remain hands-on in his medical profession, particularly in international rescue missions. “The ice cream van is the main work now for me,” he explained, noting that while he loves paramedic work, his passion lies in serving ice cream.

Interestingly, even amidst the cheerful chaos of selling ice cream, Shemmeld is not far removed from his paramedic duties. He has found that members of his community often approach him for medical advice, blurring the lines between his two professions. “One woman came up to me and said she had a rash, lifting her top for me to examine. You’re never not a paramedic,” he remarked, highlighting the ongoing connection he maintains with his medical background.

At times, Shemmeld’s ice cream van becomes more than just a vehicle for treats; it also serves as a first aid station. With a defibrillator stored in the back and his readiness to assist in emergencies, he has occasionally had to park his van temporarily to help those in need. “You drive down the street, and everyone runs towards you,” he explained about the excitement generated by the familiar ice cream truck.

In a humorous twist, Shemmeld quipped that if he could add a blue light to his van, he could seamlessly combine both roles. His story is a testament to resilience and the power of community, demonstrating how a simple ice cream truck can bring joy and a sense of purpose while also allowing a dedicated professional to continue making a positive impact in others’ lives amidst challenging circumstances.