Argentine Entrepreneurs Redefine Gastronomy with First-of-its-Kind Obvious Ice Factory
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Argentina is witnessing a cool revolution in its cocktail scene, thanks to Hielo Prisma, the nation’s first factory producing entirely transparent ice. Founded by lifelong friends Hernán Biglia and Máximo Fioravanti, the company is rapidly changing how bartenders and consumers experience chilled beverages.
From Family Tradition to Innovative Business
The genesis of Hielo Prisma wasn’t a meticulously crafted business plan, but rather a solution born from a personal desire for a better drinking experience. Fioravanti, an engineer known for hosting gatherings, noticed a gap in the argentinian market for ice that wouldn’t quickly dilute drinks. “He wanted to improve the experience of receiving people in his house,” a company representative recalled,”and one day he showed me a finished piece of ice,which he had made with a saw.”
This initial experiment quickly evolved. the founders embarked on a grassroots marketing campaign, presenting six ice cubes, a cooler, and a whiskey bottle to 20 bars in Buenos Aires. The overwhelmingly positive response solidified their vision and led to the establishment of Hielo Prisma.
The success of Hielo Prisma is deeply rooted in the long-standing friendship between Biglia and Fioravanti. Having known each other since primary school, the pair brought complementary skills to the venture. Fioravanti focused on the technical growth, while Biglia spearheaded the commercial side. “We have been friends since primary school. We are currently 44 years old, so it is an entire life shared,” Biglia stated. “Although we had previously agreed on some work, we had never started together until this idea arose.”
The initial spark came from a desire to replicate a type of clear ice the founders had encountered abroad.This curiosity led to the creation of large, geometrically-shaped ice pieces designed to enhance the overall drinking experience.
Beyond Cooling: The Art of Prisma Ice
Hielo Prisma’s ice isn’t just about keeping drinks cold; it’s about elevating them. The company highlights three key differentiators: functionality, aesthetics, and creativity. The large size of the ice reduces the surface area in contact with the liquid, minimizing dilution – ideal for cocktails like a Negroni. The crystal-clear transparency, achieved through precise saw cutting, gives the ice a visually striking, glass-like appearance.
Furthermore,bartenders are increasingly utilizing the ice as a design element,requesting custom shapes and even embedding flowers or fruits within the frozen blocks.A representative noted that the company is their “creative canvas.”
Market reach and Future Expansion
Currently, Hielo Prisma primarily serves establishments in Buenos Aires and the surrounding areas, with distribution extending to Mar del Plata and Córdoba. They also cater to event organizers. While monthly billing reaches approximately $50 million, the company has observed a slight decrease in consumption compared to the previous year. The team consists of seven dedicated employees.
Exporting the ice itself is impractical due to logistical challenges, but the founders are exploring opportunities to license their technology and business model internationally. They are already advising a startup in paraguay utilizing their developments.
In parallel, Hielo Prisma is expanding its reach to individual consumers, aiming to educate the market on the benefits of using larger, slower-melting ice. The product is currently available in select vinotecas (wine shops) and can be ordered directly from the factory for larger quantities.
Building a Lasting Legacy
From a garage-based operation to a 400-square-meter warehouse, Hielo Prisma’s journey demonstrates the power of innovation and a strong partnership. “We started in a garage, we whent through a 70-square-meter premises in Chacarita and now we are in a 400-meter warehouse,” Biglia recounted.The founders emphasize that the strength of their relationship and team is the key to their success. “The fundamental thing is society and the work team,” Biglia concluded. “the idea can change or transmute, but if the team is not strong it will not be able to accompany these changes.”
