From its Launch with Assistance from SBDC at SIUE, Tropical Sno Caseyville Now Celebrates its 5-Year Anniversary with Sweet Surprises and Bold New Brew
Local favorite Tropical Sno Caseyville, founded by Beth Schwarz and Jeff Schwarz with assistance from the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, is celebrating its fifth anniversary on July 2 with community festivities, customer giveaways, and the exciting debut of its newest offering—Rolling Roast Cold Brew.
What started as a family initiative during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic has blossomed into a seasonal staple and cherished destination for the Caseyville/Collinsville community. Tropical Sno was launched in 2020 when Beth Schwarz and her family saw an opportunity in the unused drive-thru section of a nearby business. With limited job options for her kids due to pandemic closures, Schwarz turned a challenge into a dream. Now, her youngest children are proudly continuing the family-run tradition.
Tropical Sno quickly stood out for its ultra-soft, fluffy shaved ice crafted with premium ice and syrups. With more than 41,000 possible flavor combinations, every customer can experience a fun and personalized treat with each visit.
The location—across from Collinsville High School—features a charming brick-and-mortar setup with a covered patio and green space, making it a favorite hangout for families, students, and neighbors alike.
To thank the community for its support over the last five years, Schwarz is offering a special anniversary promotion: Customers will receive a $1 discount on every shaved ice cone, and every fifth customer will earn a free cone on their next visit. These promotions will be available throughout the celebratory week.
As part of the anniversary celebration, Tropical Sno is also introducing Rolling Roast Cold Brew. This business is co-owned with Schwarz’s son Jack, who launched Rolling Roast in the CEO program this past year. The cold brew is a smooth and refreshing coffee that has already received glowing feedback from early tasters on various social media platforms. This exciting new addition brings a bold twist to the shop’s menu and offers an energizing option for adults and coffee lovers.
“This business started with a dream to keep our family connected and support our kids,” said Schwarz. “Now we’re celebrating five incredible years, and we’re so proud to introduce Rolling Roast to our community. We can’t wait for everyone to experience what’s next.”
From day one, SBDC at SIUE has played a key role in helping Schwarz and her family bring Tropical Sno to life. “Jo Ann at the SBDC has been incredible,” Schwarz shared. “From navigating licensing and business planning to marketing and growth strategies, the support we received has been essential to our success.”
As July 2 approaches, the Schwarz family invites the community to come celebrate with them—grab a cone, try the new cold brew, and enjoy the sweet taste of summer.
SBDC director Jo Ann Di Maggio May has expressed her excitement at the amazing business journey so far. “I am so proud of Beth and her family’s hard work making their shop a local destination, and family friendly experience. Their dedication to the community shines with every coffee and snow cone they make,” she remarked. “The SBDC and I are happy to be a small part of their business journey.”
About Tropical Snow Caseyville
Tropical Sno Caseyville is a family-owned shaved ice stand known for its soft, fluffy snow, high-quality syrups, and fun, customizable flavor combinations. Since opening in 2020, it has become a go-to destination for families and students in 2134 S Morrison Ave, Caseyville, IL. Follow Tropical Sno Caseyville, IL on social media.
About the Illinois SBDC at SIUE
The Illinois Small Business Development Center for the Metro East at SIUE provides no-cost, professional support for entrepreneurs and small businesses across the region. Their services help businesses like Tropical Sno grow, thrive, and stay connected to their communities.
Visit the website for more information, or contact (618) 650-2929, sbdcedw@gmail.com.
PHOTO: The Schwarz family, founders of Tropical Sno Caseyville; Tropical Sno shaved ice cones
