The global ice cream market is experiencing robust growth, driven by rising disposable incomes, evolving consumer preferences, and a growing demand for plant-based and non-dairy products. The market is highly competitive, encompassing a range of players from small artisanal producers to large multinational corporations like Nestlé SA and Unilever PLC. Key growth factors include the increasing popularity of premium and artisanal ice creams, the rise of vegan and lactose-free options, and innovative flavor profiles catering to diverse dietary needs. The market is segmented by product type into artisanal, impulse, and take-home ice cream, as well as hard, soft, French, non-dairy, and homemade varieties. Despite challenges such as health concerns related to sugar and fat content, the market is supported by effective marketing strategies and a strong consumer preference for indulgent treats, particularly in North America.
Market Drivers
Rising Disposable Income
Increasing disposable income is a primary driver of the global ice cream market, enabling consumers to spend on premium and high-quality ice cream products. Higher incomes facilitate indulgence in dining experiences, including desserts, boosting the growth of artisanal ice cream shops offering unique flavors and textures. This trend is particularly pronounced in developed markets, where consumers seek premium offerings over mass-produced options.Growing Vegan and Non-Dairy Trends
The rising adoption of plant-based diets and the prevalence of lactose intolerance are driving demand for non-dairy ice cream. Health concerns, such as digestive issues linked to dairy consumption, are prompting consumers to opt for vegan alternatives made with oat, almond, or coconut milk. This segment is witnessing robust growth as manufacturers introduce innovative non-dairy products to cater to vegetarian and vegan consumers, expanding the market’s consumer base.Product Innovation
Constant innovation in flavors, textures, and product formats is a key growth driver. Manufacturers are diversifying their portfolios with unique combinations, low-sugar options, and plant-based offerings to meet evolving consumer preferences. The focus on premium and artisanal ice creams, coupled with catering to specific dietary needs, enhances market appeal and drives demand across various consumer segments.Geographical Outlook
North America
North America, led by the United States, holds a dominant share of the global ice cream market. Strong consumer demand for frozen desserts, deeply embedded in American culture as a comfort food, fuels market growth. Rising disposable incomes, changing dietary habits, and a preference for innovative and premium products contribute to the region’s market leadership. Effective marketing, including social media campaigns and collaborations with influencers, further drives demand, with major players like Ben & Jerry’s and Wells Enterprises, Inc. leading product diversification efforts.Key Developments
In February 2023, Valsoia, an Italian dairy-free company, launched a new line of vegan gelato, including Triple Pistachio Mini Sticks, catering to the growing demand for plant-based products. In 2023, Burma Burma Restaurant and Tea Room introduced artisanal ice creams in six unique flavors, such as Dark Chocolate & Olive Oil and Avocado & Honey, reflecting the trend toward innovative, high-end offerings.The ice cream market is poised for significant growth, driven by rising disposable incomes, the growing popularity of non-dairy and vegan products, and continuous product innovation. North America dominates due to strong consumer demand and cultural affinity for ice cream, supported by effective marketing and premium offerings. The rise of plant-based diets and health-conscious choices is expanding the non-dairy segment, while artisanal and unique flavor profiles enhance market appeal. Despite challenges like health concerns, the market’s focus on innovation and dietary inclusivity positions it for sustained expansion, offering opportunities for both established and emerging players.
Key Benefits of this Report:
- Insightful Analysis: Gain detailed market insights covering major as well as emerging geographical regions, focusing on customer segments, government policies and socio-economic factors, consumer preferences, industry verticals, and other sub-segments.
- Competitive Landscape: Understand the strategic maneuvers employed by key players globally to understand possible market penetration with the correct strategy.
- Market Drivers & Future Trends: Explore the dynamic factors and pivotal market trends and how they will shape future market developments.
- Actionable Recommendations: Utilize the insights to exercise strategic decisions to uncover new business streams and revenues in a dynamic environment.
- Caters to a Wide Audience: Beneficial and cost-effective for startups, research institutions, consultants, SMEs, and large enterprises.
What do businesses use these reports for?
Industry and Market Insights, Opportunity Assessment, Product Demand Forecasting, Market Entry Strategy, Geographical Expansion, Capital Investment Decisions, Regulatory Framework & Implications, New Product Development, Competitive IntelligenceReport Coverage:
- Historical data from 2022 to 2024 & forecast data from 2025 to 2030
- Growth Opportunities, Challenges, Supply Chain Outlook, Regulatory Framework, and Trend Analysis
- Competitive Positioning, Strategies, and Market Share Analysis
- Revenue Growth and Forecast Assessment of segments and regions including countries
- Company Profiling (Strategies, Products, Financial Information, and Key Developments among others.
Ice Cream Market Segmentation:
BY TYPE
- Impulse Ice Cream
- Take-Home Ice Cream
- Artisanal Ice Cream
BY PRODUCT TYPE
- Hard Ice Cream
- Soft Ice Cream
- French Ice Cream
- Non-Dairy Ice Cream
- Homemade Ice Cream
BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL
- Online
- Offline
BY GEOGRAPHY
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Mexico
- South America
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Others
- Europe
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Spain
- United Kingdom
- Others
- Middle East and Africa
- Saudi Arabia
- Israel
- UAE
- Others
- Asia Pacific
- China
- Japan
- India
- South Korea
- Indonesia
- Thailand
- Taiwan
- Others
Table of Contents
Companies Mentioned
- Ben & Jerry's Homemade, Inc.
- Nestle
- Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams, LLC.
- ABC Holdings
- Velvet Ice Cream
- Froneri International Limited
- Umesh Modi Group
- Iceco Ledai
- Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream, Inc.
Table Information
Report Attribute | Details |
---|---|
No. of Pages | 151 |
Published | August 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Estimated Market Value ( USD | $ 70.92 billion |
Forecasted Market Value ( USD | $ 93.13 billion |
Compound Annual Growth Rate | 5.6% |
Regions Covered | Global |
No. of Companies Mentioned | 9 |