Chilly Billy’s announces closure

Chilly Billy’s Woodland Ave Location, which opened its doors in March of 2014, will be closing its doors at the end of October. Their Miller Hill Mall location will remain open through March of 2024.

Owner Bill Marker, nicknamed Chilly Billy, had the idea to open a frozen yogurt shop in the Dinkytown area of Minneapolis in January 2011 after his love of the frozen treat. He quickly realized he wanted to open a second location near his alma mater, UMD, and found the new BlueStone location to a perfect spot near campus. They opened their doors in March of 2014 to temperatures of 35 below zero with lines out the door.  Soon after in 2015, he closed the Dinkytown location to concentrate on the Duluth location. After years of success, they opened a second location in the Miller Hill Mall food court in 2018.

“It’s been a difficult decision to close my namesake shops after so many years, but we have become recent empty nesters and I would like to be closer to home and semi-retire”, stated owner Bill Marker.

In those years the stores have seen a proposal, flash mobs, catered a prom, had a float in the UMD Homecoming parade, and they have donated to hundreds of charities and been part of countless memorable celebrations.

“I have loved having a business in the Duluth community. We have had so many great employees, vendor partners, and most of all great customers that have made it all a really fulfilling experience, “ Owner Bill Marker reflects on.

They are staying open until the end of October so there is plenty of time to come in and get your favorite sweet treats and toppings. Gift cards will be honored until the close in October at BlueStone, and March of next year at the Mall.