The global ice cream market was worth 57 billion U.S. dollars in 2017 and is expected to grow to nearly 75 billion by 2024. This represents an over 30 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.

In 2023, Ben & Jerry’s was the leading ice cream brand in the United States, based on sales of 951 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 1.4 billion U.S. dollars. Considering the total U.S. ice cream market generated a revenue of 19.1 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 401 million units, over double Ben & Jerry’s 176 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 11.4 kilograms of ice cream annually.

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.

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 global ice cream market research industry is rising demand for innovative flavors and growing demand for impulsiveness to consume the product in developing countries.

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.

Protein Ice Cream Market size is expected to be worth around USD 4.7 Bn by 2034, from USD 2.3 Bn in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 7.5%

United States Ice Cream Market was valued at USD 19.04 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow USD 23.43 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 3.58%.

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Market Size	2024: USD 19.04 Billion
Forecast Market Size	2030: USD 23.43 Billion
CAGR	2025-2030: 3.58%
Fastest Growing Segment	Online
Largest Market	South
Key Players	1. Wells Enterprises, Inc. 2. Pierre's Ice Cream Company, Inc. 3. Blue Bell Creameries 4. General Mills Inc. (Haagen-Dazs) 5. Turkey Hill Dairy 6. Inspire Brands, Inc. 7. American Dairy Queen Corporation (Dairy Queen) 8. Kahala Franchising, L.L.C. (Cold Stone Creamery) 9. Mayfield Dairy Farms 10. Graeter’s Ice Cream Company

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 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 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.

In 2023, the value of the ice cream market in Thailand reached approximately 14.3 billion Thai baht. The value is forecast to grow throughout the examined period.

Ice cream producers navigate a rapidly evolving landscape characterized by intensified competition and fickle, shifting consumer preferences. Over the past five years, the largest producers have engaged in strategic mergers and acquisitions, such as PAI Partners' acquisition of Unilever's ice cream division in 2024, excluding Ben and Jerry's, to consolidate market power. This consolidation has sharpened the competitive landscape as companies vie for dominance in a market increasingly driven by demand for health-conscious and premium products. In response, brands heavily invest in product innovation and marketing strategies, leveraging digital platforms and influencer partnerships to maintain consumer engagement and brand loyalty. As competition heats up, introducing organic, plant-based and low-calorie alternatives is central to capturing today's health-conscious consumers. Revenue has been expanding at a CAGR of 3.3% over the past five years and is expected to hike at a CAGR of 1.0% in 2025, totaling $12.6 billion. Input price volatility has defined the current period, with producers contending with wild fluctuations in milk and sugar prices. These complexities caused fluctuations in average profit, but producers have stabilized it by 2025. This stability is largely attributed to effective supply chain strategies, including long-term contracts and diversified sourcing. The volatility of milk and sugar prices highlighted the need for agile pricing strategies and operational adjustments. Focusing on flavor innovation and strategic partnerships has allowed companies to navigate these economic uncertainties. Producers have differentiated from traditional offerings by enhancing product portfolios with limited edition and seasonal flavors, satisfying even the most fickle consumer tastes despite rising costs. Ice cream production is on track for further transformation in the coming years, driven by evolving health trends and global opportunities. Producers are poised to embrace functional ingredients, with an anticipated rise in keto-friendly and adaptogen-infused options. As plant-based alternatives gain traction, dairy-free options are expected to expand beyond niche status, providing new growth avenues. However, input costs are predicted to stabilize only moderately, with potential volatility still posing challenges, especially in sweeteners and alternative fat sources. Sustainability will take a forefront role, with innovations in packaging and eco-friendly practices reshaping operational strategies. As US producers explore internationally, they'll face the dual challenges of geopolitical uncertainties and local taste adaptations while striving for sustainable and innovative product development to maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly dynamic market. Revenue growth is forecast to slow over the next five years, climbing at a CAGR of 0.8% to $13.1 billion in 2030.

Protein Ice Cream Market estimated size and share is projected to exceed USD 4,943.90 million by 2034, with a forecasted CAGR of 6.3% during the period.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Ice Cream market size is USD 80512.2 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.60% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 32204.88 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a share of over 30% of the global market size of USD 24153.66 million.
Asia Pacific held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 18517.81 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.6% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 4025.61 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1610.24 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2024 to 2031.
The Sticks/Bars held the highest Ice Cream market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Ice Cream Market

Key Drivers of Ice Cream Market

Rising Disposable Incomes to Increase the Demand Globally

Consumers discover they have more money to spend on discretionary items as economies grow and disposable incomes rise. This tendency frequently results in increased indulgence in tiny pleasures like ice cream. People in better financial standing are more likely to spoil themselves and their families with fun activities like trying different ice cream flavors or going to ice cream shops more regularly. Because of this, the demand for ice cream usually rises in lockstep with rising disposable incomes, indicating a shift in culture toward prioritizing leisure and enjoyment in daily life in addition to increased spending.

Urbanization and Busy Lifestyles to Propel Market Growth

Convenient, on-the-go snacks are in high demand due to the growing urban population and people's increasingly hectic lifestyles; ice cream is a popular option due to its delicious and refreshing appeal. Ice cream is the perfect treat since it is portable and provides rapid satisfaction, especially for city people with busy schedules and little time for sit-down meals. Because it comes in several forms—cones, cups, and bars, for example—it can accommodate a range of tastes and consumption habits in the bustle of the city. In addition, the variety of flavors and toppings available for ice cream contributes to its appeal, drawing in those looking for quick yet fulfilling treats amid their busy city life.

Restraint Factors of Ice Cream Market

Health Concerns and Rising Health Consciousness to Limit the Sales

Consumer mindsets have noticed a noticeable movement towards making more thoughtful decisions about sugar content and calorie intake as health concerns and growing health consciousness become more prevalent. This change may reduce the consumption of typically high-calorie ice cream products. Many consumers are looking for healthier substitutes or adjustments, like dairy-free, low-calorie, or low-sugar options. In response to this desire, producers are experimenting with healthier recipes, adding natural sweeteners, and providing more readable nutritional data. Furthermore, the development of healthier and plant-based ice cream substitutes meets the needs of the increasing number of consumers who are concerned about their health and want to indulge sometimes without sacrificing their nutritional objectives.

Impact of COVID-19 on the Ice Cream Market

The COVID-19 epidemic caused significant changes in the ice cream sector. Lockdowns and other limitations at first resulted in fewer customers walking into ice cream shops and fewer impulsive purchases. However, as customers stocked up on comfort foods, the retail category experienced an uptick in demand. There was also a spike in online ordering and delivery services to satiate appetites and follow safety precautions. As the pandemic spread, customers sought solace in minor pleasures amid uncertain times, and as a result, there was an increasing taste for luxury and indulgent types. Manufacturers responded by launching new tastes and packaging sizes to accommodate shifting consumer habits. Notwithstanding obstacles, the sector showed ten...

The global non-dairy ice cream market, estimated at US$2.1 billion in 2024, is forecasted to reach US$3.4 billion by 2031, with an annual growth rate of 8.5%

The Ice Cream and Frozen Dessert Market is poised to reach a value of USD 1,48,672.5 Million by 2025 and is projected to reach a value of USD 3,06,418.7 Million by 2035, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 7.5% over the assessment period 2025 to 2035.

Attributes	Description
Estimated Global Industry Size (2025 E)	USD 1,48,672.5 Million
Projected Global Industry Value (2035 F)	USD 3,06,418.7 Million
Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035)	7.5%

Country wise Insights

Countries	CAGR, 2025 to 2035
USA	3.9%
Germany	4.7%
India	5.7%

Category-wise Insights

Segment	Value Share (2025)
Frozen Yogurt (Type)	87%

Segment	Value Share (2025)
Super market (Distribution channel)	38%

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global Retail Ice Cream market size is USD 61241.2 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.50% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 24496.48 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.7% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 18372.36 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 14085.48 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share for more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 3062.06 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.9% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 1224.82 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.2 % from 2024 to 2031.
The Impulse Ice Cream held the highest Retail Ice Cream market revenue share in 2024.

Market Dynamics of Retail Ice Cream Market

Key Drivers for Retail Ice Cream Market

Rising Disposable Income to Increase the Demand Globally

Rising disposable profits in growing countries correlate with the economic boom, permitting clients to allocate greater funds closer to discretionary objects, which include ice cream. This fashion is pushed by means of expanded wages, urbanization, and increasing center-elegance populations. As people enjoy higher degrees of disposable income, they tend to prioritize leisure and lifestyle improvements, along with indulging in treats like ice cream. Consequently, the call for ice cream in those regions tends to push progressively upward. Multinational agencies and neighborhood businesses often capitalize on this opportunity with the aid of increasing their product services and distribution networks, aiming to satisfy the growing purchaser appetite for lower priced luxuries. This monetary phenomenon underscores the evolving customer behavior and market dynamics inside growing economies.

Changing Consumer Preferences to Propel Market Growth

Consumer preferences within the ice cream marketplace are shifting toward top-rate alternatives that provide particular flavors, more healthy elements, and indulgent reports. There is a developing demand for ice creams that cater to unique nutritional desires and lifestyle selections, which include sugar-loose, low-fat, vegan, and organic sorts. This fashion reflects a broader cultural shift towards fitness-consciousness and sustainability among international clients. As a result, ice cream manufacturers and retailers are expanding their product strains to consist of specialized services, capitalizing on the growing patron willingness to pay a top rate for incredible and innovative ice cream options. This evolution in customer options is reshaping the industry landscape, encouraging innovation and competition amongst brands to meet the diverse needs of modern-day discerning customers.

Restraint Factor for the Retail Ice Cream Market

Health Concerns to Limit the Sales

Growing health consciousness amongst consumers is influencing preferences closer to lower-sugar and decrease-fat ice cream alternatives, doubtlessly main to a decline in overall ice cream consumption. Concerns over weight problems, diabetes, and different fitness problems related to excessive sugar and fat consumption have brought individuals to look for more healthy dessert options. This shift is riding the call for for products that offer decreased ranges of those elements at the same time as still offering a satisfying indulgence. Additionally, purchasers are more and more interested in ice creams made with natural, healthy elements and people that cater to precise dietary alternatives, including vegan or lactose-free options. As a result, ice cream manufacturers are reformulating their merchandise and introducing new traces to meet those fitness-orientated options. While traditional ice cream remains popular, its intake styles are evolving as customers prioritize fitness-conscious alternatives in their diets and lives.

Impact of Covid-19 on the Retail Ice Cream Market

The retail ice cream market has been dr...

Explore the key statistics and trends in the ice cream industry, including overall sales figures, popular flavors, seasonal trends, retail vs. foodservice sales, consumer preferences, and the rise of healthier ice cream options.

Expert industry market research on the Ice Cream Stores in the US (2005-2030). Make better business decisions, faster with IBISWorld's industry market research reports, statistics, analysis, data, trends and forecasts.