United Kingdom Ice Cream Market Growth Analysis - Market Size, Share, Forecast Trends and Outlook Report (2025-2034)

The United Kingdom ice cream market, valued at USD 1.25 Billion in 2024, has seen notable growth, driven by surge in online sales and effective marketing strategies. The market is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.50% from 2025 to 2034, potentially reaching USD 1.94 Billion by 2034. Consumers are increasingly seeking ice creams made with meticulous craftsmanship, reflecting a dedication to excellence and unique textures.

United Kingdom Ice Cream Market Growth

The growing popularity of food delivery applications and platforms is a key driver for the growth of the United Kingdom ice cream market. These platforms are extremely convenient to use, enable doorstep deliveries in minimal time, and offer discounts to customers, making them a popular choice for ice cream sales. They also provide a wider option to choose from, so that customers can order the most suitable products for their diets, tastes, and appetites. Reflecting their growing significance in the ice cream market, Deliveroo, one of the most used food and grocery delivery apps in the country, was reported to have generated an overall revenue of EUR 2 billion in 2023, marking a year-on-year increase of 2.7%. Currently, the app has 7.1 million users across the region.

According to the United Kingdom ice cream industry analysis, new flavour innovations are also driving market expansion, as customers are seeking to try new and exciting flavours that can stimulate their taste palettes. This is encouraging brands to experiment with bold and unconventional developments. For instance, Ferrero UK announced the launch of its new range of Nutella Ice Cream Tubs featuring layers of Nutella and hazelnut in August 2024. Since Nutella is one of the most popular breakfast flavours in the UK, the ice cream was widely distributed in Morrison supermarkets across the region.

Key Trends and Recent Developments

The growing popularity of soft serve ice creams, the preference for handheld ice cream sticks and cones, and the introduction of sustainable packaging are driving the growth of the United Kingdom ice cream market.

June 2024

Fast food chain McDonald’s announced the launch of a new vegan ice-cream-style dessert in two different flavours: chocolate and strawberry, both certified by The Vegetarian Society. Initially, it was available at a select few McDonald’s restaurants in Northwestern England. Henceforth, it was made available at 52 branches across Manchester, Rochdale, Stockport, Ardwick, Bury, Denton, and Ashton-Under-Lyne.

April 2024

Premier Foods launched Angel Delight ice cream sticks in the UK, available in two flavours - banana and butterscotch. Dipped in milk chocolate, these sticks offered a light and fluffy texture, most suitable for consumption in the summer season. Shortly after their launch, they were made available in Morrison supermarkets, in a pack of three 100mL sticks.

February 2024

Nestle brands collaborated to launch a new range of ice cream-inspired sharing bags in four classic flavours, namely Aero (Neapolitan), Milkybar (Raspberry Ripple), Munchies (Cookie Dough Flavour) and Rowntree's Randoms (Cones). To promote the products, Nestle partnered with famous FM DJ, Jordan Banjo, creating multiple ice cream van jingles, especially to enhance their appeal to younger customers.

January 2022

Angel Delight launched two soft-serve ice cream flavours, strawberry, and butterscotch, offering a light and fluffy texture, for its UK customers. Designed to be shared among friends and family members, they were available in large 800 ml tubs. The flavours were inspired by the mousse-like dessert, first launched by the brand in 1967.

Growing Popularity of Soft Serve Ice Creams is Leading to the United Kingdom Ice Cream Market Growth

According to the United Kingdom ice cream market analysis, soft-serve ice creams are garnering increasing popularity due to their light, airy and creamy texture, making them ideal for on-the-go dessert experiences. They can easily be prepared and are widely available at fast food chains, amusement parks, and street food stalls, providing young customers with an affordable and delicious treat option during their leisure time. Their growing demand in the market is encouraging brands to introduce soft serves as must-haves in their ice cream portfolio. For instance, Henley Bridge launched the UK’s first-of-its-kind Jersey Dairy UHT Chocolate Soft Serve, uniquely blending the brand’s original Vanilla Luxury Softmix with Belcolade cocoa mass and deZaan cocoa powder.

Preference for Hand-Held Cones and Sticks is Increasing the Demand of the United Kingdom Ice Cream Market

The preference for handheld ice cream sticks and cones is growing owing to the flexibility and convenience they offer in consumption. Customers can easily enjoy them while on the move, making them an ideal choice for outdoor events as well as casual settings. Besides, they allow the addition of multiple layers of flavour with additional toppings that increase their overall appeal. Since they are known to increase profit margins, major brands are consistently working towards expanding their handheld ice cream range in the country. In a similar effort, Walls expanded its handheld range to include the Twister Berry-Licious, Cornetto Soft Stracciatella and Caramel and three new Guuud Greek Style Yoghurt Ice Cream flavours, Raspberry, Salted Caramel and Passionfruit in April 2024.

Introduction of Sustainable Packaging is Driving the Long-Term Growth of the United Kingdom Ice Cream Market

Growing environmental concerns have driven industry leaders to adopt sustainable and eco-friendly packaging for ice cream products, aiming for long-term growth of the market. This includes the adoption of biodegradable, recyclable, and reusable materials sourced from plant-based fibres, paper, and other compostable options. For instance, in March 2021, ice cream producer Unilever launched a soft serve Cornetto ice cream under its Walls brand featuring a 50% recycled plastic lid in three flavours. These efforts not only help brands reduce their cost of packaging and waste disposal but also enhance their brand image among eco-conscious customers.

New Advancements in Ice Cream-Making Machines are Providing Several United Kingdom Ice Cream Market Opportunities

New advancements in ice cream-making machines are enhancing the productivity of ice cream manufacturing and preparation processes, thereby leading to the overall growth of the market. Modern machines, whether designed for home or professional use are being integrated with advanced cooling systems, automated processes, detachable components, and precision controls to improve the quality and consistency of ice cream produced while reducing production costs. For instance, small appliance manufacturer ProCook announced the launch of two new electrical ice cream makers in July 2024, designed with easy cleaning features and detachable components for flexible usage and storage options.

United Kingdom Ice Cream Market Trends

Ice cream brands in the country are extending their collaborations across industries to increase consumer reach, enhancing the overall demand of the United Kingdom ice cream market. Collaborations with well-known confectionery brands, bakery chains, and beverage brands allow the pairing of ice cream products with their bestsellers, increasing customer engagement and appeal for newly developed flavours. These collaborations also contribute as a means of expanding distribution channels for ice cream products.

For instance, one of the major ice cream distributors in the UK, Mackie’s Ltd., collaborated with a tourism brand Visit Aberdeenshire to promote the latter’s marketing campaign in Scotland. For this purpose, it developed a new ice cream made with the traditional ingredients of Scotland including its native chocolate and hand-made butterscotch flavours infused with raspberry compote made from locally sourced Castleton Farm berries. Throughout the campaign, the new product garnered a new customer base from across the region.

United Kingdom Ice Cream Industry Segmentation

The report titled “United Kingdom Ice Cream Market Report and Forecast 2025-2034” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Product Type

• Bars and Pops
• Cups and Tubs
• Others

Market Breakup by Type

• Dairy and Water-based
• Vegan

Market Breakup by Flavour

• Chocolate
• Vanilla
• Fruit
• Others

Market Breakup by Distribution Channel

• Off-Trade
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online
• Others
• On-Trade

Market Breakup by Region

• England
• Wales
• Scotland
• Northern Ireland

United Kingdom Ice Cream Market Share

Bars and Pops are Leading the United Kingdom Ice Cream Market

According to the United Kingdom ice cream market analysis, ice cream bars and pops hold the largest market share due to their convenience and ease of consumption. They can easily be consumed by different age groups without the barrier of time and location, making them an ideal choice for an on-the-go dessert experience. Moreover, they are a healthier option compared to their counterparts due to controlled portion size. Their appeal is enhanced by the addition of multiple layers of ingredients and toppings, offering complex flavours suitable for the seasonal appetites of consumers. To reflect their growing demand, Magnum, the iconic ice cream brand introduced two new summer ice cream bar flavours in August 2023, namely, Euphoria Pink Lemonade and Chill Blueberry Vegan Cookie.

Opportunities in the United Kingdom ice cream market are increasing as cups and tubs, with their larger portions, are ideal for at-home consumption and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Cups and tubs are expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% during the forecast period. They are rich in flavour and made with premium ingredients, appealing to customers seeking a unique and exotic dessert-eating experience. To customise their flavour to suit consumer needs, brands are encouraging innovative developments in the cups and tubs segment. For instance, in October 2024, Magnum launched its first-ever bite-sized range of ice cream tubs, Bon Bons, in three of the brand’s bestselling flavours, White Chocolate & Cookies, Gold Caramel Billionaire, and Salted Caramel & Almond.

Shifting food consumption patterns are driving the development of new vegan ice cream products, contributing to the growth of the United Kingdom ice cream market revenue.

Vegan ice-creams are expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period. The increased adoption of vegan lifestyle due to growing health concerns and environmental awareness in the United Kingdom is fuelling the vegan ice cream demand growth. Brands are responding to this trend by making their ice cream portfolio more inclusive of vegan customers and introducing 100% plant-based options for them. Vegan ice creams are also a viable choice for lactose-intolerant customers, which account for a large share in the country. In a relevant effort, Magnum launched its new Vegan Raspberry Swirl ice cream bar in January 2023 made with 100% plant-based chocolate sustainably sourced from cocoa beans and pea protein to enhance its creamy texture.

Meanwhile, traditional dairy and water-based ice creams continue to play a key role in the growth of the United Kingdom ice cream market. Their consumption is steadily increasing, driven by the expansion of the milk processing sector in the UK. According to the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, the region's dairy businesses processed 1.20 billion litres of milk in July 2023, a year-on-year rise of 0.1%. This growth is expected to drive the market for dairy-based ice creams, meeting their ever-growing demand in the region.

Chocolate continues to be the most popular flavour, driving demand in the United Kingdom ice cream market

According to the United Kingdom ice cream market report, chocolate leads as the most consumed flavour in the ice cream industry, due to its enduring popularity across all age groups. Besides, multiple varieties of chocolates such as dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and vegan chocolate, infuse different flavours in ice creams, increasing the scope of developing a full-fledged product line using this single ingredient. Chocolate-flavoured ice creams are also extremely versatile, with the ability to incorporate a variety of toppings to enhance their flavour. Catering to their never-ending demand, major brands in the UK are expanding their chocolate-flavoured ice cream range to increase their overall sales and revenue growth. For example, Ferrero UK launched its new range of classic dark chocolate-flavoured ice cream trio; Ferrero Rocher Classic, Ferrero Rocher Dark and Raffaello in February 2024, backed by a marketing campaign worth EUR 2 million.

Besides, fruit-based ice creams are also gaining traction in the market, especially among health-conscious customers, seeking lighter, and lower sugar content options. These ice creams feature natural sweetness, inherently sourced from ripe fruits which form their foundational flavour and are ideal for consumption in warm summer months. To meet this seasonal demand, UK-based ice cream distributor Unilever introduced its first-ever sweet and sour ice cream popsicles, Twister Fruit Zingerrr, flavoured by a combination of tangy apple, sour lemon, and sweet blueberry in January 2023.

New Entrants are Driving On-Trade Sales in the United Kingdom Ice Cream Market

New market entrants are expanding the reach of on-trade ice cream sales and distribution in the United Kingdom. These brands are introducing fresh concepts, innovative flavours, and high-quality ingredients to cater to the increasing demand from customers eager to try bold, global flavours in their favourite desserts, thereby impacting the United Kingdom ice cream market revenue. Moreover, their appealing venues such as restaurants, cafes, and food trucks, offer an enhanced dessert experience for high-end customers. For instance, Häagen-Dazs, a globally known ice cream brand announced the intention to relaunch its brand in the UK by opening 25 new stores across the region between 2024 and 2029.

Besides, new investments are also increasing the scope of off-trade distribution of ice creams in the UK. England-based Beau secured EUR 400,000 worth of investment in April 2021, which the brand plans to use to launch the UK’s first vegan ice cream subscription service, Beau’s Pint Club. This service will deliver subscribers a dessert box of vegan gelato ice cream each month.

United Kingdom Ice Cream Market Regional Analysis

Rising Dairy Production in Wales is Increasing the United Kingdom Ice Cream Market Share

The dairy industry in Wales has witnessed immense growth in the recent past, increasing the production of milk and milk products such as ice creams. According to the government’s estimates, the estimated income of dairy farms in the country grew by 87% in four years, reaching EUR 164,900 in FY 2022-23. Besides, the production of milk and milk products rose by 49% in the same period. A further rise is expected in these values with the expansion of dairy farms in the country, leading to increased sales of ice cream in the long term.

The demand in the United Kingdom ice cream market is growing as, in Scotland, the expanding tourism sector and a focus on locally and sustainably sourced ingredients are prompting international ice cream brands to introduce global flavours to the region. These new flavours are gaining popularity in both urban as well as remote locations of the country. Contributing to this growing trend, Peacock’s Ice Cream opened a new shop in one of the largest cities of Scotland, Glasgow, in August 2024, introducing North American flavours such as Canadian campfire, cookies & cream and salted caramel.

Competitive Landscape

The United Kingdom ice cream market key players are expanding their operations in different countries to increase their market presence and consumer reach. Additionally, they are also seeking strategic collaborations with associated businesses including confectionery, baking, and snacking firms to market their products across multiple industries.

Unilever Plc

Established more than 100 years ago, Unilever Plc is one of the largest consumer goods companies in the world. It operates in five major domains: beauty and well-being, personal care, nutrition, home care, and ice cream. With a global footprint in more than 190 countries and a network of 4.4 billion retail stores globally, the company’s major ice cream brands include Wall’s, Magnum, and Ben and Jerry’s.

General Mills, Inc.

General Mills, Inc. was established in 1928 and is headquartered in Minnesota, USA. Majorly supplying food products, the company operates in several food categories which include baking, cereal, fruits, vegetable soup, yoghurt, and ice cream. Its ice cream brand, Haagen-Dazs has a strong presence in markets across Asia and Europe.

Mondelez International, Inc.

Mondelez Internation Inc. was founded in 2012 with headquarters in Greater Chicago. It is a leading snack brand with operations in more than 80 countries and a customer base spanning 150 countries across the globe. Its major snacking brands include Oreo, 5 Star, Cadbury, Ritz, Toblerone and more.

Froneri International Limited

Froneri International Ltd. is the second-largest ice cream company globally operating across 23 countries. It was founded in 2016 as a joint venture between R&R and Nestle. Its major ice cream brands include Haagen Dazs, Drumstick and Extremes, Oreo, Nuii, Cadbury and Milka, and Oushine and Rowntree’s.

Other key players in the United Kingdom ice cream market report are Nestle SA, Mackie’s Ltd., Willen Ice Cream Company, and Marshfield Farm Ice Cream Ltd, among others.