The Ice Cream Market is segmented by Distribution Channel (Off-Trade, On-Trade) and by Region (Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East, North America, South America). Market Value in USD and Volume are both presented. Key Data Points observed include Per capita consumption; Population; and Dairy production.

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Gourmet Ice Cream Market Size 2025-2029

The gourmet ice cream market size is forecast to increase by USD 12.36 billion, at a CAGR of 15.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by the increasing health benefits associated with gelato, a key segment within the market. Consumers are increasingly drawn to the denser, richer texture and authentic Italian origins of gelato, which is perceived as a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream due to its lower fat content and use of natural ingredients. This trend is further fueled by the growing culture of socializing in gelaterias and ice cream parlors, where consumers can enjoy a premium experience and indulge in a wide variety of unique and artisanal flavors. However, the market also faces challenges in its distribution channels. With the increasing popularity of online sales and home delivery services, traditional brick-and-mortar stores are facing increased competition. Additionally, the perishable nature of gourmet ice cream poses logistical challenges for manufacturers and retailers, requiring careful planning and coordination to ensure timely delivery and optimal product quality. Companies seeking to capitalize on market opportunities must navigate these challenges effectively, leveraging innovative distribution strategies and supply chain management techniques to maintain a competitive edge.

What will be the Size of the Gourmet Ice Cream Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
Request Free SampleThe market continues to evolve, reflecting the dynamic nature of consumer preferences and industry trends. The artisan food movement has led to a surge in small-batch production, with quality control and ethical sourcing becoming key differentiators. Plant-based and dairy-free options, including vegan ice cream, have gained popularity due to increasing demand for sustainable and ethical food choices. Food festivals and events provide a platform for brands to showcase their unique flavors and innovative recipe formulations. Premium pricing and luxury food market trends have led to the emergence of gourmet toppings and subscription services. Social media marketing and influencer collaborations have become essential strategies for brand differentiation and customer engagement. Food safety standards and sustainable practices are increasingly important, with many brands focusing on local sourcing and fair trade ingredients. The freezing process and packaging technology have also advanced, enabling online ordering and direct-to-consumer sales. Specialty ice creams, seasonal flavors, and ice cream cakes continue to capture the imagination of consumers, offering a sensory experience that goes beyond the traditional scoop. Brand loyalty is fostered through custom flavors, loyalty programs, and a focus on the customer experience. The market is a constantly unfolding landscape, with ongoing innovation in flavor development, sensory analysis, and marketing strategies. The dessert industry as a whole continues to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics, ensuring a rich and diverse range of options for consumers.

How is this Gourmet Ice Cream Industry segmented?

The gourmet ice cream industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments. ProductGelatoSorbetFrozen custardOthersDistribution ChannelOfflineOnlineProduct TypeInorganicOrganicFlavorVanillaChocolateStrawberryButter pecanOthersGeographyNorth AmericaUSCanadaEuropeFranceGermanyItalySpainUKAPACChinaIndiaJapanRest of World (ROW).

By Product Insights

The gelato segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The market encompasses various offerings, including ice cream sandwiches, artisan ice cream, plant-based ice cream, and frozen yogurt. This market is a significant segment of the dessert industry, with a strong focus on quality control, ethical sourcing, and sustainable practices. The artisan food movement has fueled innovation, leading to unique flavors, custom formulations, and small-batch production. Consumer preferences for natural ingredients, organic dairy, and dairy-free options have driven the growth of this sector. Food festivals and events serve as platforms for brand differentiation and influencer marketing. Premium pricing is common, reflecting the luxury food market status of gourmet ice cream. Food safety standards are stringently adhered to, ensuring a superior customer experience. Sensory analysis plays a crucial role in recipe formulation and flavor development. Subscription services and online ordering have streamlined distribution, while direct-to-consumer sales and

The United States Ice Cream Market is segmented by Distribution Channel (Off-Trade, On-Trade). Market Value in USD and Volume are both presented. Key Data Points observed include Per capita consumption; Population; and Dairy production.

The size of the North America Ice cream Market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 5.11% during the forecast period. The ice cream market is a dynamic segment of the global food industry, characterized by diverse flavors, innovative formulations, and a broad range of product offerings. This market includes various categories such as traditional ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, and dairy-free alternatives, catering to different consumer preferences and dietary needs. Increasing consumer demand for indulgent treats, coupled with rising disposable incomes and urbanization, has fueled market growth. Additionally, the trend toward premium and artisanal ice creams has gained momentum, with consumers seeking high-quality ingredients and unique flavor profiles. Innovations in packaging and distribution have also played a crucial role in expanding market reach, with online sales gaining popularity alongside traditional retail channels. Seasonal variations and local flavors contribute to market diversity, making ice cream a year-round favorite in many regions. Health-conscious consumers are driving the development of low-calorie, low-sugar, and functional ice creams that incorporate ingredients like probiotics and superfoods, reflecting the growing trend towards healthier eating habits. The market is further influenced by marketing strategies that highlight sustainability, with brands focusing on eco-friendly packaging and sourcing ingredients responsibly. Key players in the ice cream market include established companies and emerging brands, all competing to capture consumer attention through innovative products and effective branding. Overall, the ice cream market is poised for continued growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences, a focus on quality and health, and the ongoing innovation of product offerings. 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.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing consumer health conciousness, Growing consumer inclination toward Vegan/Plant-Based Proteins. Potential restraints include: Stringent government regulation of food labels/claims. Notable trends are: OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.

The ice cream market attained a value of USD 83.24 Billion in 2024. The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.30% during the forecast period of 2025-2034. By 2034, the market is expected to reach USD 126.82 Billion.

The ice cream industry is experiencing massive growth with consumers craving bold and unconventional flavours. Constant rollout of limited-edition exotic and savoury combos keeps interest high, and drives repeat purchases. In July 2025, Kroger introduced four exclusive seasonal pints, each blending creative flavours for the summer. Innovation in global taste profiles differentiates products and appeals to adventurous consumers hungry for unique experiences. Retail freebies and social media buzz also amplify visibility, making flavour creativity a primary growth engine across formats and regions.

Ecommerce platforms and direct-to-consumer (D2C) delivery are influencing the ice cream market outlook by making premium and personalized frozen desserts more accessible. Advances in cold-chain logistics, insulated packaging, and quick-commerce apps have enabled frozen products to reach doorsteps efficiently. In April 2025, Kwality Wall’s launched The Dairy Factory, a line of slow-churned, ultra-creamy ice creams available in various flavours on quick commerce platforms. Boutique brands offer online storefronts with nationwide delivery of curated bundles or subscriptions. As consumers seek convenience, choice, and exclusivity, ecommerce is becoming a vital driver of growth and brand differentiation in the industry.

The global plant-based ice creams market is set to witness USD 2.6 billion in 2025. The industry is poised to depict 9.8% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, reaching USD 5.3 billion by 2035.

Metrics	Values
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 2.6 billion
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 5.3 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	9.8%

Semi-Annual Industry Update

Particular	H1
Year	2024 to 2034
Value CAGR	9.5%

Particular	H2
Year	2024 to 2034
Value CAGR	10.1%

Particular	H1
Year	2025 to 2035
Value CAGR	9.9%

Particular	H2
Year	2025 to 2035
Value CAGR	10.5%

Country-wise Analysis

Countries	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
USA	5.3%
India	8.5%
UK	5.5%
Germany	5.0%
China	7.8%

Competitive Outlook

Company Name	Estimated Industry Share (%)
Unilever	25-30%
Nestlé	20-25%
Danone	12-18%
General Mills	10-15%
Oatly	8-12%
Other Players	20-30%

Snapshot img

Ice Cream Market Size 2025-2029

The ice cream market size is forecast to increase by USD 31.7 billion at a CAGR of 6.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by two significant trends: the demand for extended shelf life in ice cream products and the increasing preference for vegan options among millennial consumers. The former is a response to the growing need for convenience and longer preservation periods in the fast-paced modern lifestyle. This trend is pushing manufacturers to invest in advanced technologies and packaging solutions to enhance the product's longevity without compromising taste and quality. The increasing prevalence of obesity and related diseases among consumers, particularly among the younger demographic, is fueling this trend. To cater to dietary restrictions, ice cream manufacturers offer sugar substitutes and fat replacers.
As a result, companies are responding by launching innovative vegan ice cream offerings to cater to this growing consumer base. However, creating vegan ice cream that matches the taste, texture, and mouthfeel of dairy-based ice cream remains a significant challenge. Companies must invest in research and development to create vegan ice cream that appeals to both health-conscious consumers and traditional ice cream lovers. Effective navigation of these trends and challenges will be crucial for companies seeking to capitalize on the market's growth potential and maintain a competitive edge. Coconut milk, almond milk, cashew milk, and soy milk are some of the common plant-based bases used in vegan ice cream production.

What will be the Size of the Ice Cream Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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The market exhibits dynamic trends with a focus on catering to various dietary preferences and health-conscious consumers. Lactose-free and plant-based options are gaining popularity among health-conscious consumers, while sugar content and calorie count remain key concerns. Frozen treats, including ice cream sandwiches, milkshakes, sundaes, and novelty items, are innovating with non-dairy alternatives and allergen-free options. Frozen yogurt and frozen desserts also contribute to this market, offering lower fat content and protein options. Ice cream carriers, such as bowls, dippers, and spoons, are designed to enhance the consumer experience.

Competitions and festivals showcase the creativity of ice cream makers, featuring unique flavors and presentations, from ice cream cakes and pies to floats and bars. Dairy ingredients remain essential, but the market is expanding to include a diverse range of frozen desserts. Meanwhile, the rising popularity of vegan ice cream is posing a challenge to traditional dairy-based ice cream brands.

How is this Ice Cream Industry segmented?

The ice cream industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Impulse
  Take home
  Artisanal


Type

  Dairy
  Non-Dairy


Flavor

  Chocolate
  Vanilla
  Fruit
  Strawberry
  Others


Distribution Channel

  Supermarkets and hypermarkets
  Convenience stores
  Ice cream parlors
  Online retail
  Foodservice


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan
    South Korea


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The Impulse segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. In the dynamic the market, companies cater to consumers' evolving preferences through product innovation and diverse offerings. Ice cream mixes and gelato mixes, available in bulk packaging, are popular choices for ice cream parlors and foodservice operators. Online retailers have emerged as significant distribution channels, enabling consumers to explore a wide range of new flavors, including salted caramel, peanut butter, and fruit purees. Consumer preferences lean towards local sourcing, fair trade ingredients, and novel textures, driving the demand for artisan ice cream and gourmet ice cream.

Continuous freezers and frozen dessert machines facilitate efficient production and distribution. Premium ice cream brands highlight unique ingredients, such as cookie dough and chocolate coatings, to cater to health consciousness and indulgence. Soft serve machines and batch freezers cater to the convenience stores and foodservice sectors, while retail packaging and foodservice packaging ensure product freshness. Sorbet mixes and whipped cream are popular add-ons, while flavor trends shift towards healthier options, such as plant-based and low-

The size of the Ice Cream Industry market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 5.35% during the forecast period. The ice cream sector, which is part of the food industry and creates frozen dairy treats with cream, milk, sugar, and flavors, is seeing consistent expansion. High consumer demand for indulgent treats and innovative flavors is what motivates this market. Key companies such as Unilever, Nestlé, and Häagen-Dazs dominate the industry with wide range of products and strong distribution channels. The dynamic market landscape is shaped by the rise of premium, low-fat, and dairy-free options, as well as the growing demand for single-serve and novelty ice creams. Even though there are difficulties in preserving both texture and flavor in healthier options, the market's bright future is upheld by continual research and development endeavors. This path highlights the essential importance of ice cream in current food habits and its opportunity for further market expansion. 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: Kemps replaced Dean Goods throughout Iowa as Dairy Farmers of America completed the USD 433 million acquisition of Dean Foods properties. The business took over the Le Mars milk factory, which can process numerous Kemps products, from cottage cheese to ice cream.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.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Inclination Towards Vegan/Plant-based Protein Sources, Increasing Demand for Functional Protein Beverages. Potential restraints include: Competition from Substitute Products. Notable trends are: OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.

The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.3% from 2025 to 2035, increasing from USD 1,023.815 Million in 2025 to USD 1,416.527 Million by 2035.

Metric	Value
Market Size (2025E)	USD 1,023.815 Million
Market Value (2035F)	USD 1,416.527 Million
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	3.3%

Country wise Outlook

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
United States	3.3%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
United Kingdom	3.3%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
European Union	3.3%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
South Korea	3.3%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
Japan	3.3%

Segmentation Outlook

By Flavour	Market Share (2025)
Vanilla	34.6%

By Distribution Channel	Market Share (2025)
Offline	62.1%

Competitive Outlook

Company Name	Estimated Market Share (%)
Ben & Jerry’s (Unilever)	18-22%
Alden’s Organic Ice Cream	14-18%
Straus Family Creamery	10-14%
Häagen-Dazs (Nestlé)	8-12%
Three Twins Ice Cream	6-9%
Others	25-35

The global impulse ice cream market is expected to grow in the forecast period of 2025-2034 at a CAGR of 5.70% due to the increasing consumer demand for single-serving ice creams and growing availability of exotic ice cream options.

Access Market Research Intellect's Ice Cream Market Report for insights on a market worth USD 95.43 billion in 2024, expanding to USD 135.25 billion by 2033, driven by a CAGR of 4.5%.Learn about growth opportunities, disruptive technologies, and leading market participants.

The Ice Cream Market size was valued at USD 81.8 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 109.10 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.2 % during the forecasts period. Ice cream is a frozen treat made from milk, cream, sugar and sometimes other ingredients. In addition to milk or cream, ice cream often contains stabilizers, such as gluten, which help keep the composition of the mixture consistent. As refrigeration equipment has become more common, this treat has only recently become more widely available. In recent years, frozen custard, frozen yogurt, and even dairy-free versions of ice cream have gained popularity due to the rise in popularity of ice cream. Moreover, the Indian ice cream market is expected to grow rapidly in popularity in the coming years. Rising disposable incomes and changing lifestyles have led to significant high-priced ice cream sales, and this is expected to continue in the coming years. Consistent efforts by ice cream manufacturers to introduce different flavors of ice cream, diversification of Indian q-trade and growth in the unorganized sector are expected to boost the growth of the Indian ice cream market. during the forecast period.

The size of the U.S. Artisanal Ice Cream Market was valued at USD 2.32 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 3.61 billion by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 6.5 % during the forecast period. Artisanal ice cream refers to a type of ice cream that is handcrafted in small batches, typically using high-quality, natural ingredients. Unlike mass-produced ice cream, artisanal ice cream is known for its unique flavors, creamy texture, and an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The production process is often done by skilled artisans who pay attention to detail, ensuring that each batch of ice cream is carefully crafted with love and passion. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for premium and indulgent ice cream experiences, growing health consciousness, and technological advancements in ice cream making. Consumers increasingly opt for handcrafted, small-batch ice creams made with natural and organic ingredients, driving market expansion. Recent developments include: In August 2023, Amy's Ice Creams launched its new location in Heights, Shepherd Drive, Houston, with an eight-week grand opening celebration that started on August 2. The event featured over 350 rotating ice cream flavors, including seasonal and vegan options, and introduced a unique vending machine that dispensed prizes, discounts, and "side quests" in exchange for tokens. , In July 2023, Lick Honest Ice Creams announced an expansion into the Houston market. The company plans to open new locations in Houston's Braes Heights and Autry Park areas. , In May 2023, Fat Cat Creamery announced a new location at Hobby Airport in Houston, Texas, to serve airport travelers with unique artisanal ice cream options. Fat Cat Creamery has capitalized on this opportunity to treat residents and visitors passing through the airport with its ice creams. .

The North America Non-dairy Ice Cream Market is segmented by Distribution Channel (Off-Trade) and by Country (Canada, Mexico, United States). Market Value in USD and Volume are both presented. Key Data Points observed include Per capita consumption; Population; and Production volume of plant-based products.

The GCC Ice Cream Market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of around 6.52% during the forecast period 2024-30 Segmented Into Product Type, Flavor, Sales Channel and Country.

The market offers a diverse range of ice cream products, including:Types: Ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, sorbet, and sherbetFlavors: Vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, peanut butter cup, mint chocolate chipFormats: Scooped, packaged, and noveltiesSizes: Single-serve, pint, quart, gallonPackaging: Plastic containers, paper cartons, cones 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: Kemps replaced Dean Goods throughout Iowa as Dairy Farmers of America completed the USD 433 million acquisition of Dean Foods properties. The business took over the Le Mars milk factory, which can process numerous Kemps products, from cottage cheese to ice cream.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.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Inclination Towards Vegan/Plant-based Protein Sources, Increasing Demand for Functional Protein Beverages. Potential restraints include: Competition from Substitute Products. Notable trends are: OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.

Experience the sweet revolution with the Global Sugar-Free Ice Cream Market, set to grow at a CAGR of 8.9% from 2023-2028. Rising health awareness, diabetes concerns, and the popularity of low-sugar diets drive the demand for delicious and guilt-free frozen treats.

In 2024, after four years of growth, there was decline in the U.S. ice cream market, when its value decreased by -0.4% to $10.6B. The market value increased at an average annual rate of +3.4% over the period from 2012 to 2024; the trend pattern indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. Ice cream consumption peaked at $10.7B in 2023, and then shrank in the following year.

Accroding to Reed Intelligence, Ice Cream Market Size is projected to grow at an approximate CAGR of 3.4% over the forecast period (2023-2031).
Report Scope:

Report Metric	Details
Market Size by 2031	USD XX Million/Billion
Market Size in 2023	USD XX Million/Billion
Market Size in 2022	USD XX Million/Billion
Historical Data	2021-2023
Base Year	2023
Forecast Period	2025-2033
Report Coverage	Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, Environment & Regulatory Landscape and Trends
Segments Covered	Segment By Type Soft Ice Cream Hard Ice Cream Segment By Application Commercial Household
Geographies Covered	North America Europe APAC Middle East and Africa LATAM
Companies Profiles	Unilever Nestlé Lotte Confectionary Dean Foods General Mills Mars Yili Group Morinaga Meiji Mengniu Turkey Hill Blue Bell Creameries Amul

Middle East and Africa Ice Cream market size is USD 1610.24 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2024 to 2031.