WM Partners with Novel Ice Cream for 'Green Dream' Launch at 2026 Phoenix Open

Environmental solutions provider WM has announced a strategic collaboration with Arizona-based artisanal brand Novel Ice Cream to launch a signature product for the 2026 WM Phoenix Open (WMPO).

The partnership introduces the "WMPO Green Dream," an exclusive ice cream flavour designed to drive engagement at the tournament while supporting the event's zero-waste and sustainability initiatives. The product will be available exclusively from February 3-8 at the "WM Green Scene" within the tournament's Fan Zone.

Product Profile and Serving Strategy

Created by Novel Ice Cream—recently named the best ice cream shop in the U.S. by Yelp—the limited-edition flavour is engineered to visually reflect the tournament's branding.

Flavour Architecture:

Base: Mint ice cream.
Inclusions: Chocolate chips and pretzels.
Topping: Green and yellow candies.

Zero-Waste Packaging: Aligning with the tournament's status as a certified zero-waste sporting event, the serving strategy eliminates single-use plastic. The ice cream will be served exclusively in edible vessels (cones, waffle cups, or doughnuts) or compostable cups with compostable utensils.

Philanthropic Integration

The collaboration incorporates a significant charitable component aimed at the "Working For Tomorrow Fund," an initiative established by WM and The Thunderbirds (tournament hosts).

Donation Model: Novel Ice Cream has pledged to donate 20% of all sales from the collaboration to the fund.
Beneficiaries: Proceeds will support local organisations including Waste Not (food rescue), the Arizona Sustainability Alliance, and various projects identified by the Bonneville Environmental Foundation.

David Brannon, Four Corners Area Vice President at WM, commented on the engagement strategy:

"The WM Phoenix Open is much more than a golf tournament — it's a celebration of sustainability, community and innovation. Collaborating with Novel Ice Cream to create a signature green ice cream flavour... is a fun way to engage fans while fundraising for causes that support the Arizona community."

Shawn Allard, Owner of Novel Ice Cream, added: "As a proud Arizona business, we couldn't be more thrilled to team up with WM... This collaboration lets us serve up something fun and flavourful while giving back to the community we love."

The 2026 tournament marks WM's 17th year as title sponsor. In addition to the ice cream sales, the event will drive fundraising through "Green Out Day" on Saturday (where The Thunderbirds donate $1 for every person wearing green) and a 50/50 raffle.