South America Ice Cream Market Outlook, 2029

The South American ice cream market is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector that mirrors the diverse and vibrant cultures of the continent. The region boasts a unique culinary landscape, influencing the creation of distinctive flavours like dulce de leche, passion fruit, and guava, which resonate with local palates. A striking feature of the South American ice cream market is the increasing popularity of artisanal and premium offerings, reflecting a shift towards higher-quality and indulgent experiences.

As multinational giants and local brands engage in intense competition, a diverse range of products, from traditional cones to innovative gelato and popsicles, grace the shelves of supermarkets, specialty shops, and online platforms. Seasonal variations, health and wellness concerns, and a growing emphasis on natural and organic ingredients further contribute to the market's complexity, making it an intriguing landscape shaped by cultural nuances and consumer dynamics. In South America, there are some technological trends in the ice cream industry.

Technologically advanced vending machines equipped with touchscreens, cashless payment options, and real-time inventory tracking are becoming more prevalent in the ice cream industry. These machines offer convenience and enable personalised customer experiences. Furthermore, some ice cream brands are using AR and VR technologies for marketing and customer engagement. These technologies enhance the in-store or online experience by providing virtual tours of production processes, interactive packaging, or immersive promotional campaigns.

According to the research report, 'South America Ice Cream Market Outlook, 2029', the South America Ice Cream market is projected to reach a market size of more than USD 6 Billion by 2029. As South American economies experience growth and improvements in the standard of living, disposable incomes increase. This rise in purchasing power often leads to higher spending on non-essential items, including indulgent treats like ice cream. The age distribution and demographic profile of the population play a significant role.

With a sizable youth population in many South American countries, there is a higher demand for convenience foods and snacks, including ice cream. Additionally, changing demographics, such as an increase in urbanisation and dual-income households, contribute to the demand for convenient and ready-to-eat products like ice cream. As well as the South American cultures, people often celebrate with food, and ice cream is a popular choice for festivities and social gatherings. The cultural significance of shared moments, celebrations, and family events drives the demand for ice cream as a dessert or treat during such occasions.

The introduction of new and innovative ice cream products, such as premium and artisanal varieties, keeps consumers interested and willing to explore different options. Companies that invest in product innovation, such as novel flavours, textures, or formats, often experience increased demand. Ice cream consumption tends to be seasonal, with demand spiking during the warmer months. Companies often introduce seasonal flavours or promotions to capitalise on increased consumer interest during hot weather.

Market Drivers

• Population Growth and Demographics: The population growth in South America, coupled with a significant youth demographic, contributes to a larger consumer base for ice cream products. Younger consumers, in particular, often drive the demand for frozen desserts.
• Rising Disposable Income: Economic growth in certain South American countries has led to an increase in disposable income levels. As people's purchasing power rises, they are more inclined to spend on non-essential items, including indulgent treats like ice cream.
• Urbanisation and Changing Lifestyles: Urbanisation and changing lifestyles, including busier schedules and an increased focus on convenience, drive the demand for easily accessible and ready-to-eat products like ice cream.

Market Challenges

• Health and Wellness Concerns: While there is a demand for indulgent treats, there is also a growing awareness of health and wellness. Consumers may be increasingly conscious of factors such as sugar content, calorie levels, and the overall nutritional profile of ice cream. This can lead to a shift in preferences towards healthier alternatives, impacting traditional ice cream sales.
• Seasonal Dependence: The South American ice cream market is often seasonal, with demand peaking during warmer months. This seasonality can pose challenges for manufacturers in terms of managing inventory, production planning, and revenue consistency throughout the year.

Market Opportunity

• Flavour Innovation and Localization: There is an opportunity for ice cream manufacturers to continue innovating with flavours, incorporating local and traditional ingredients to appeal to diverse and culturally rich South American palates. Creating unique and regional flavours can set products apart in the market.
• Online Sales and Delivery Services: The growing popularity of e-commerce and food delivery services presents an opportunity for ice cream manufacturers to expand their market reach. Establishing online sales channels and partnerships with delivery platforms can make ice cream more accessible to consumers.

Based on the product types, Impulse Ice Cream, Artisanal Ice Cream, and Take Home Ice Cream are among them in South America. Take Home Ice Cream is the leading segment. In terms of flavour types, they are segmented into Vanilla, Chocolate, Fruit, Tutti Frutti, Blends, and others. In South America, vanilla is significantly contributing to the market.

South American societies often place a strong emphasis on family ties and communal gatherings. Take-home ice cream is frequently associated with family celebrations, making it a staple for occasions like birthdays, holidays, and family get-togethers. The cultural significance of shared moments contributes to a steady demand for take-home ice cream. Ice cream is a popular treat during celebrations and festivities across South America. The take-home format allows families and individuals to stock up on ice cream in preparation for special occasions, contributing to increased sales during peak celebration seasons. Seasonal variations in temperature impact ice cream consumption patterns.

During warmer months, there is a surge in the demand for take-home ice cream as families stock up to beat the heat. Manufacturers often introduce seasonal flavours or promotions to capitalise on this seasonality. Vanilla is a classic and universally loved flavor. Its mild, sweet, and creamy taste appeals to a broad spectrum of consumers, including those with diverse cultural backgrounds. This makes vanilla a safe and popular choice that caters to a wide range of tastes. South American consumers, like many others, often prefer mild and approachable flavours, especially when it comes to desserts. Vanilla, with its gentle sweetness and creamy notes, caters to this preference, making it a go-to choice for individuals of all ages.

According to the report, the packaging types are segmented into sticks and bars, cones and cups, tubs and bricks, and others; among them, sticks and bars are a growing market. Based on the distribution channel, which includes supermarkets and hypermarkets, convenience stores, ice cream parlours, online sales channels, and others, in South America, supermarkets and hypermarkets are the leading distribution channels for ice cream.

Manufacturers frequently introduce novel and seasonal variations in the sticks and bars segment to keep consumers interested. Limited-edition flavours, themed packaging, and seasonal promotions create excitement and drive sales. In warmer climates common in parts of South America, the temperature sensitivity of ice cream is a crucial factor. Sticks and bars provide a practical solution as they are easier to handle and consume without melting too quickly, making them more suitable for hot weather. Sticks and bars offer a convenient and portable format, allowing consumers to enjoy ice cream without the need for bowls or utensils.

This convenience appeals to individuals with active lifestyles, especially those looking for on-the-go snacks. Consumers in South America often incorporate ice cream into their routine grocery shopping. Supermarkets and hypermarkets, being part of consumers' regular shopping habits, become natural destinations for purchasing ice cream, leading to consistent sales. South American cultures, which often emphasise family values, celebrations, and shared meals, align well with the offerings of supermarkets and hypermarkets.

These retail spaces provide a convenient environment for families to explore and select ice cream options together. The urbanisation trend in South America has led to an increase in the number of supermarkets and hypermarkets in urban areas. This aligns with changing consumer lifestyles, where urban dwellers often prefer the convenience of shopping in large retail spaces. The cold chain infrastructure required for storing and transporting frozen products is well-established in supermarkets and hypermarkets. This ensures that ice cream products maintain their quality from the manufacturer to the consumer.

Based on the report, the major countries covered in the report include Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and the rest of South America. Among them, Argentina is a growing market.

Ice cream has a strong cultural presence in Argentina, where it is considered a traditional and beloved dessert. The culture places importance on social gatherings and celebrations, creating a conducive environment for the consumption of ice cream. Argentina has significantly higher per capita ice cream consumption rates in the region. The love for ice cream is deeply ingrained in Argentine culture, and people often indulge in this frozen treat, contributing to sustained demand. The Argentine ice cream market offers a diverse range of flavours, including unique and innovative options. This variety caters to different taste preferences, attracting a broad consumer base.

The market in Argentina has seen a rise in artisanal and premium ice cream offerings. Consumers are increasingly interested in unique and high-quality products, leading to the growth of artisanal ice cream shops that focus on craftsmanship and distinct flavors. Argentina experiences distinct seasons, and ice cream consumption varies accordingly. During the warmer months, there is a surge in demand for ice cream, prompting manufacturers to introduce seasonal flavours and promotions. Ice cream parlours, known as 'heladerías,' are an integral part of Argentine culture.

These establishments offer a wide selection of flavors, and the experience of visiting a heladería is cherished by locals and tourists alike. Relative economic stability in Argentina has contributed to disposable income levels, allowing consumers to allocate spending on indulgent treats such as ice cream.

The key players in the market are actively innovating to maintain their competitive edge. They focus on product diversification, introducing new and exciting flavors and formats to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Health-conscious trends have prompted these companies to develop and market low-fat, low-sugar, and dairy-free options. Strategic collaborations and acquisitions also play a significant role in expanding their product portfolios and market reach. Additionally, sustainability and environmentally-friendly packaging initiatives are gaining prominence, aligning with consumer demands for responsible consumption.

These key players are investing in research and development to keep up with changing market dynamics and maintain their leadership positions. Numerous small and mid-size players operating in various countries contribute to the overall growth of the market. The manufacturers are introducing new flavors and formats to enhance their sales volume which has been decreasing especially in developed regions such as North America and Western Europe. Nowadays, ice creams with natural ingredients, low calories, and health claims appeal the most to consumers, thus, manufacturers are focused on launching products with these attributes.

Considered in this report

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report

• Cold Chain Logistics market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type

• Refrigerated Warehouse
• Refrigerated Transportation

By Refrigerated Transportation

• Roadways
• Waterways
• Railways
• Airways

By Temperature Type

• Frozen
• Chilled

By Technology

• Dry Ice
• Gel Packs
• Eutectic Plates
• Liquid Nitrogen
• Quilts

By Process

• Pre-Cooling Facilities
• Cold Storage
• Refrigerated Carriers
• Packaging
• Information Management System

By Applications

• Dairy and frozen desserts
• Pharmaceuticals
• Process food
• Meat, Fish & Sea-foods
• Bakery and confectionery
• Fruits and vegetables
• Others

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organizations related to the Cold Chain Logistics industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.


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