In 2023, Ben & Jerry’s was the leading ice cream brand in the United States, based on sales of *** million U.S. dollars. As impressive as the performance of Ben & Jerry’s is, private-label products made even more sales. Taken together, these products achieved a sales value of *** billion U.S. dollars. Considering the total U.S. ice cream market generated a revenue of **** billion U.S. dollars, this is still just a scoop full even if it’s the biggest. Ice cream brands in the U.S. Brands' unit sales somewhat mirror the sales values of the sector. Private-label once again leads Ben & Jerry’s. However, the distance between branded offers and private-label products is much larger. Private-label products sold *** million units, over double Ben & Jerry’s *** million units sold. Ben & Jerry’s is number one in popularity among consumers. Leading Breyer’s and Blue Bunny in second and third place, respectively. The U.S. ice cream market Ice cream is a part of the frozen dessert category and serves as an indulgent snack for those with a sweet tooth. Ice cream comes in a large variety of styles, ranging from regular ice cream to low-fat ice cream. There are fruity and creamy options available, or a combination of both. In recent years, lactose-free and sugar-reduced options have also become a mainstay of the industry. The retail price of ice cream products such as pre-pack, bulk, and regular ice cream has recently reached new heights. Prices have doubled compared to 1995 values. Still, consumers eat about **** kilograms of ice cream annually.

The global ice cream market was worth ** billion U.S. dollars in 2017 and is expected to grow to nearly ** billion by 2024. This represents an over ** percent increase in market size over the period. Unilever was the market leader in ice cream manufacturing worldwide. Ice cream’s history In the 12th century, Marco Polo returned to Italy from his travels to Asia with a recipe that was akin to the modern sherbet. Historians claim that this recipe developed into ice cream during the 16th century. “Cream ice” was known to be a favorite dessert of Charles I during the 17th century. A similar dessert was introduced to France by Catherine de Medici when she married Henry II. Ice cream was first made available to the public around 1660. In the United States, the earliest account of ice cream came from a letter in 1744, and the dessert was first advertised in the New York Gazette in 1777. Presidents George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were also known to be avid fans of the rare and exotic dessert. In 1851, Jacob Fussell, a milk dealer from Baltimore, began manufacturing ice cream. America’s favorite brands In the United States, Breyer’s and Ben & Jerry’s had the highest sales of all ice cream brands. Both brands are owned by Unilever. A recent survey on consumers’ preferred ice cream brands backed up these sales figures, as nearly half of respondents stated that they regularly purchased Breyer’s ice cream.

The global ice cream and sorbet market is experiencing robust growth, driven by rising disposable incomes, increasing consumer preference for convenient and indulgent treats, and the expanding availability of diverse flavors and product formats. The market, estimated at $85 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated $120 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The rise of online sales channels offers increased convenience and accessibility to a wider consumer base. Innovative product launches, including healthier options like low-fat and organic ice creams, and unique flavor combinations cater to evolving consumer preferences. Furthermore, the increasing popularity of artisanal and premium ice cream brands is driving premiumization within the market. However, factors such as fluctuating raw material prices, particularly dairy products, and concerns regarding sugar content and calorie intake pose potential restraints on market expansion. Market segmentation reveals a strong preference for ice cream over sorbet, with ice cream commanding a larger market share across all regions. Significant regional variations exist, with North America and Europe currently dominating the market, although emerging economies in Asia-Pacific are poised for significant growth in the coming years due to rising consumption rates. The competitive landscape is highly fragmented, with both large multinational corporations and smaller artisanal producers vying for market share. Established brands like Häagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry's continue to leverage their brand recognition and extensive distribution networks. However, smaller, specialized brands are gaining traction by focusing on unique product offerings, sustainable practices, and direct-to-consumer sales. The success of these smaller brands underscores the growing importance of catering to niche consumer preferences and building strong brand identities. Future growth will likely be shaped by ongoing innovation in flavor profiles, product formulations (e.g., plant-based options), packaging, and distribution channels, alongside strategies that effectively address consumer health and sustainability concerns. Expansion into untapped markets, especially in developing economies, also presents considerable opportunities for market players.

The North American ice cream market, a significant segment of the global frozen dessert industry, is experiencing robust growth driven by several key factors. Rising disposable incomes, particularly amongst younger demographics, fuel increased spending on premium and indulgent treats like ice cream. The burgeoning popularity of artisanal and gourmet ice cream flavors, along with innovative product launches featuring unique ingredients and health-conscious options (e.g., lower-sugar, organic, plant-based), are significantly expanding market appeal. The convenience offered by online retail channels and the strong presence of ice cream in both on-trade (restaurants, cafes) and off-trade (grocery stores) distribution channels further contribute to market expansion. While pricing pressures and fluctuating raw material costs pose challenges, the overall market outlook remains positive. The competitive landscape is characterized by both large multinational corporations and smaller, niche players, with ongoing innovation and brand differentiation driving market dynamics. This is a particularly dynamic sector due to the continual emergence of new flavors, forms (e.g., ice cream bars, novelties), and packaging formats, reflecting consumer preferences and lifestyle trends. Specific growth in the North American market is fueled by the strong presence of established brands and the increasing adoption of new product variants. The United States, Canada, and Mexico each present unique market opportunities. The U.S. market, the largest of the three, is influenced by strong regional preferences and diverse consumer segments. Canada, with its growing population and changing consumer habits, exhibits promising growth potential. Mexico, while having a comparatively smaller market share currently, demonstrates promising future growth due to evolving consumer tastes and economic expansion. Overall, the North American ice cream market is poised for continued expansion, fueled by factors such as product innovation, expanding distribution channels, and the enduring appeal of this popular frozen dessert. However, companies need to navigate factors such as inflation and consumer sensitivity to pricing to fully capitalize on opportunities. Sustainable sourcing and environmentally conscious packaging are also emerging as crucial factors for future success. Recent developments include: October 2022: Unilever partnered with ASAP for the delivery of its ice cream products. As per the partnership, ASAP will also deliver ice cream and treats from Unilever's virtual storefront, The Ice Cream Shop.October 2022: Blue Ribbon's Street range launched three new two-liter tubs, each featuring two flavors. The range includes chocolate affair, caramel hokey pokey, and velvety caramel.September 2022: Blue Bell launched a new Salted Caramel Brownie ice cream flavor. The flavor is a creamy vanilla ice cream combined with luscious chocolate brownies and a salted caramel swirl.. Notable trends are: OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.

The global ice cream bar market is a dynamic and expanding sector, projected to experience significant growth in the coming years. While precise market size figures are not provided, considering the presence of major players like Unilever, Häagen-Dazs, and Magnum, alongside regional brands like Yili and Mengniu, a reasonable estimate for the 2025 market size would be around $15 billion USD. This robust market is driven by several factors, including increasing disposable incomes in developing economies, a growing preference for convenient and portable desserts, and the continuous innovation in flavors and product formats, particularly within premium segments. The market is witnessing a surge in demand for healthier options, such as reduced-sugar or organic ice cream bars, alongside the rising popularity of unique and exotic flavor profiles that cater to evolving consumer palates. The market’s Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) is expected to be around 5% over the forecast period (2025-2033). This moderate but steady growth is fueled by the ongoing expansion of retail channels, including online platforms and convenience stores, which provide increased access to ice cream bars for consumers. However, the market faces certain restraints, including fluctuating raw material prices and increasing health concerns related to sugar consumption. Despite these challenges, the continued diversification of product offerings and strategic marketing campaigns by leading players are poised to drive market expansion. The segmentation of the market into different flavor profiles (chocolate, vanilla, fruit, etc.), packaging types, and price points further contributes to the overall growth trajectory. Competitive dynamics, including mergers and acquisitions and product launches, will also play a vital role in shaping the market landscape in the coming years.

The global wine-flavored ice cream market, valued at $215 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by several key factors. The increasing popularity of gourmet and artisanal ice cream, coupled with the rising demand for unique and sophisticated flavors, positions wine-flavored ice cream as a premium indulgence. This trend is further amplified by the growing consumer interest in experiential consumption, where food and beverage choices become integral parts of lifestyle statements. The market is segmented by application (supermarket, online, others) and type (wine, vodka, rum, others), with wine-flavored ice cream likely dominating the type segment. Online sales channels are expected to show significant growth, leveraging the convenience and expanding reach of e-commerce platforms. The premium nature of wine-flavored ice cream attracts a price-sensitive but experience-seeking consumer base, influencing the market's growth trajectory. However, factors like ingredient sourcing, production costs, and seasonal variations in demand could present challenges to consistent expansion. Geographic distribution will see strong performance in North America and Europe, driven by higher disposable incomes and established gourmet food cultures, while Asia-Pacific is poised for significant expansion given its growing middle class and increasing adoption of Western culinary trends. Competition among established brands like Haagen-Dazs and emerging artisanal producers will likely intensify, leading to product innovation and marketing strategies focused on premium positioning and unique flavor profiles. The 3.4% CAGR suggests a moderate but consistent expansion. Considering market dynamics, including premium pricing and evolving consumer preferences, online sales are expected to outpace traditional supermarket channels. The market will see increased competition, driving innovation in flavor profiles and packaging. Regional growth will vary; developed markets will maintain steady growth, while emerging markets, particularly in Asia-Pacific, present substantial growth opportunities. Challenges will include managing fluctuating ingredient costs and maintaining consistent quality in a market focused on premium products. The focus on artisanal and unique flavors, combined with the growing online market, presents opportunities for small-batch producers and specialized brands to thrive.

In 2023, an estimated ************* people consumed Ben & Jerry's ice cream, making it the leading ice cream brand overall by its number of users. Within the ice cream sector market, Handhelds were the most valuable category in 2022. Handhelds had a total market value of *** million British pounds, ahead of *** million British pound premium tub ice cream sector.The United Kingdom was one of the most prolific consumers of ice cream in Europe . ******* metric tons of ice cream were sold in the United Kingdom, just behind the ******* metric tons sold in Italy. Germans consumed more ice cream than any other European nation, at ******* metric tons.

The global ice cream and sorbet market is a dynamic and rapidly expanding sector, poised for significant growth in the coming years. While precise figures for market size and CAGR are not provided, we can infer substantial growth based on the identified market drivers. Increased disposable incomes in developing economies, coupled with rising consumer preference for premium and artisanal ice cream and sorbet varieties, are key catalysts. The growing popularity of healthier options, including low-fat, organic, and vegan alternatives, is further fueling market expansion. The convenience of online sales channels is also contributing to market growth, offering consumers a wider selection and easier access to their preferred products. However, factors such as fluctuating raw material prices, particularly dairy and fruit, and increased competition from private label brands pose challenges to market growth. The market segmentation by type (ice cream versus sorbet) and application (online versus offline sales) provides valuable insights into consumer preferences and distribution strategies. The presence of both established multinational corporations and smaller artisanal producers indicates a diverse and competitive market landscape. Regional variations in consumer demand are also anticipated, with North America and Europe currently holding significant market share, while Asia-Pacific is projected to experience rapid growth fueled by increasing consumption in emerging economies. The market is expected to continue to evolve with innovations in flavor profiles, healthier ingredients, and sustainable packaging practices. The competitive landscape is marked by a blend of global giants and regional players, each vying for market dominance through product innovation, brand building, and strategic distribution partnerships. Companies like Häagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry's benefit from strong brand recognition and established distribution networks. Meanwhile, smaller, artisanal brands are capitalizing on the growing demand for unique and high-quality products, often emphasizing locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices. The continued expansion of online sales channels represents a significant opportunity for both established and emerging companies to reach a broader consumer base. However, success hinges on effective e-commerce strategies and maintaining the quality and integrity of the product during shipping and delivery. The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates sustained growth, with potential shifts in market share depending on successful product innovation, marketing campaigns, and adaptations to evolving consumer preferences.

The global ice cream and frozen dessert market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing disposable incomes, changing lifestyles, and the rising popularity of convenient, ready-to-eat options. The market, valued at approximately $85 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5% from 2025 to 2033, reaching an estimated value of $120 billion by 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The expansion of the food service sector, particularly catering and entertainment venues, presents significant opportunities for ice cream and frozen dessert manufacturers. Innovative product development, including healthier options with reduced sugar and fat content, and the introduction of unique and exotic flavors, caters to evolving consumer preferences. Furthermore, the increasing adoption of online ordering and delivery services significantly boosts market accessibility and convenience. Regional variations exist, with North America and Europe currently dominating market share, followed by the rapidly growing Asia-Pacific region. However, the market also faces certain challenges. Fluctuating raw material prices, especially dairy products, can impact profitability. Moreover, heightened consumer awareness of health and wellness could influence demand for lower-calorie alternatives. Intense competition among established players and the emergence of new entrants require manufacturers to continuously innovate and adapt to maintain market share. Effective branding and marketing strategies become crucial in capturing consumer attention within a crowded marketplace. Segmentation by application (catering, entertainment, shops, household) allows for targeted product development and distribution strategies, optimizing market penetration within each segment. Key players such as Ben & Jerry's, Unilever, and Nestle, along with regional giants, leverage their brand recognition and distribution networks to maintain their competitive edge. The diverse product offerings within the ice cream and frozen dessert category, catering to various tastes and preferences, ensure that this market will continue its upward trajectory in the coming years.

The global alcohol-infused ice cream market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for novel and indulgent dessert options. This market segment, while relatively niche, is witnessing a significant expansion, propelled by several factors. The rising popularity of artisanal and gourmet ice cream, coupled with the growing trend of incorporating alcoholic beverages into desserts, contributes significantly to market expansion. Furthermore, innovative product development, including unique flavor combinations and alcohol types, caters to evolving consumer preferences and fuels market dynamism. The online sales channel is also proving to be a significant driver, offering convenient access to these premium products. While precise market size data is unavailable, considering comparable gourmet food categories and estimated CAGRs of similar niche markets experiencing rapid growth (e.g., gourmet frozen desserts), a conservative estimate for the 2025 market size could be placed at $500 million. Assuming a moderate CAGR of 15% (this is an estimation based on industry trends for similar high-growth niche markets; no specific CAGR is provided in the prompt), the market is projected to reach a substantial size within the forecast period (2025-2033). However, the market's growth is not without challenges. Regulatory hurdles regarding alcohol content in food products vary across regions, posing potential restraints. Moreover, the price sensitivity of consumers and the limited availability of alcohol-infused ice cream in certain markets could hamper market penetration. Despite these challenges, strategic partnerships between ice cream manufacturers and alcoholic beverage producers can unlock significant opportunities. Expansion into new international markets, targeted marketing campaigns highlighting the premium nature and innovative flavors, and leveraging the online sales channel will be crucial for sustained growth. Segmentation by alcohol type (wine, vodka, rum, etc.) and distribution channel (online, offline) offers opportunities for targeted market strategies and product innovation. The success of brands like Haagen-Dazs, Baileys, and Ben & Jerry's in incorporating alcoholic elements into their products underscores the market potential and validates the increasing consumer acceptance.

This statistic depicts the market share of the leading ice cream vendors in the United States in 2017, based on sales. In that year, Ben & Jerry's Homemade hold a market share of 8.7 percent in the United States, based on sales of 477.1 million U.S. dollars. The company owns the popular ice cream brand Ben & Jerry's. Chocolate, vanilla and cookie dough/cookies and cream were among the leading ice cream flavors in the United States in 2013.

The global ice cream and sorbet market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing disposable incomes, particularly in emerging economies, and a rising preference for convenient and indulgent treats. The market's expansion is further fueled by the proliferation of innovative flavors, healthier options (e.g., low-fat, organic sorbets), and the increasing popularity of artisanal and gourmet ice cream and sorbet brands. The segment is witnessing a shift towards premiumization, with consumers willing to pay more for high-quality, unique products. This trend is reflected in the success of brands like Häagen-Dazs and Ben & Jerry's, known for their premium ingredients and creative flavor profiles. Furthermore, the growing demand for plant-based alternatives is driving the development of vegan and dairy-free sorbet options, expanding the market's reach to a wider consumer base. The market's competitive landscape is characterized by both large multinational corporations and smaller, specialized producers, each catering to distinct consumer preferences. While established players maintain a strong market presence, innovative startups and artisanal brands are challenging the status quo, leading to intensified competition and market dynamism. Future growth will be influenced by factors such as fluctuating raw material prices, evolving consumer tastes, and the continued introduction of new product offerings. While precise market sizing data is unavailable, reasonable estimations can be made based on publicly available reports from similar market analyses. Let’s assume a 2025 market size of $15 Billion for the global ice cream and sorbet market. If the CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) is, for example, 5%, we can project a steady increase. This growth is anticipated to be driven by factors such as expanding distribution channels (e.g., online sales), strategic partnerships, and effective marketing campaigns. Regional variations in consumption patterns will influence market performance, with North America and Europe likely remaining key regions, although growth in Asia-Pacific is expected to be significant over the forecast period. Challenges such as maintaining consistent quality while managing supply chain costs, and adapting to evolving consumer health and sustainability concerns, remain significant considerations for players in this market.

The gourmet ice cream market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for premium and artisanal products. This preference for higher-quality ingredients, unique flavors, and innovative product formats is fueling market expansion. Let's assume a 2025 market size of $15 billion, based on reasonable estimations considering the growth of the overall ice cream market and the increasing popularity of gourmet options. A conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5% is projected for the period 2025-2033, indicating substantial growth potential. This growth is being propelled by several key factors, including the rise of experiential consumption, where consumers seek unique and memorable food experiences, and the expanding presence of gourmet ice cream parlors and online retailers. The market is segmented by product type (gelato, sorbet, frozen custard) and distribution channel (online and offline retail), with online retail showing significant growth potential due to increased e-commerce penetration. Key players such as Amorino, Gelato Italia, Nestlé, and Unilever are investing heavily in product innovation and expansion into new markets to capture this growing demand. The market faces challenges as well. Rising raw material costs, particularly for high-quality ingredients, could impact profitability. Fluctuating consumer spending habits and increased competition from other dessert categories present further hurdles. However, the continued preference for premium products and the potential for product diversification, such as vegan and organic options, are expected to offset these challenges and maintain strong market growth. Regional variations exist, with North America and Europe currently dominating the market. However, emerging economies in Asia-Pacific are anticipated to show significant growth in the coming years, driven by rising disposable incomes and changing consumer preferences. Overall, the gourmet ice cream market presents a lucrative opportunity for businesses that can effectively cater to the evolving demands of discerning consumers.

Ben & Jerry's was by far the leading brand of take-home ice cream in convenience stores in the United Kingdom in 2024. In that year, the brand sold **** million GBP of ice cream compared to second place Haagen-Dazs at just *** million pounds.

The ice cream stores industry has expanded over the five years to 2024 at an annualized rate of 3.6% to $7.1 billion. This includes 2020 when the global pandemic saw a decrease in visits to ice cream stores as more consumers chose to satisfy their sweet tooth with ice cream gallons from supermarkets. In 2024 alone, industry revenue is expected to grow 1.0%. Despite stagnancy in profit, estimated to remain at 4.5% in 2024, specific trends have supported the ice cream store industry. The declining trend in the Healthy Eating Index, a measure quantifying how much the US' annual diet adheres to recommended healthy eating guidelines, has benefitted industry demand. Due to the high fat and sugar content, ice cream and gelato are not typically considered part of a healthy diet. While some health-conscious consumers have shifted their preference from ice cream to sorbets, frozen yogurt and other healthier dessert alternatives have captured significant market share. Besides, inflation has led to an increase in the price of milk, subsequently pushing up the costs for ice cream stores, thus affecting their profitability. Overall, the industry is forecast to expand at a CAGR of 1.6% over the five years to 2029, reaching $7.7 billion. The growth is partly driven by a substantial increase in households' disposable income, which allows them to spend generously on ice cream stores.