Artisanal Ice Cream Market Size

Artisanal Ice Cream Market Size Snapshot

Note – Market size depicts the revenue generated over the financial year

The ice cream market is set to grow significantly in the coming years. The current size of the market is estimated to be USD 63.6 billion in 2024, and it is expected to reach USD 95.7 billion by 2030. The CAGR of 4.2% for the forecast period is based on this growth rate. The increasing demand for premium and high-quality products and the growing trend of artisanal and locally produced food are the main reasons for the expansion of this market. The ice cream market is expected to grow due to the increasing demand for natural and unique flavors, which artisanal ice cream companies are well equipped to provide. Also, technological developments in the production process and distribution channels will lead to market growth. The innovations in small-batch production and the use of organic and sustainable ingredients will attract a more demanding audience. Ben & Jerry's, Haagen-Dazs, and local artisanal brands are active in this market and are launching new, unique flavors to attract consumers. These efforts are not only to increase brand loyalty, but also to support the local economy and sustainable practices.

Regional Market Size

Regional Deep Dive

In all regions the Artisanal Ice Cream Market is experiencing a positive growth due to the growing demand for high-quality, natural products. In North America the market is characterized by a high preference for individual tastes and locally sourced ingredients. In Europe the Gelato and the combination of various flavors is a long-standing tradition. In the Asia-Pacific region the ice cream parlors are expanding due to the growing middle class and the changing consumer preferences towards gourmet desserts. The Middle East and Africa and Latin America are gradually opening up to Artisanal Ice Cream, influenced by cultural influences and the introduction of new flavors that are in line with local tastes.

North America

• The ice cream industry is in the midst of a revolution in the plant-based and dairy-free world. Van Leeuwen ice cream, for example, has a variety of dairy-free flavors.
• Among the new trends are those of a more varied flavor, based on local products and international influences, which is the case at Salt & Straw, which also rotates its flavors to keep them fresh and exciting.
• In recent years, changes in labelling and ingredient legislation have made it increasingly necessary for artisanal ice-cream makers to emphasise transparency and sustainable practices. The Specialty Food Association (SFA) is one such body that has taken this line.

Europe

• In Europe the revival of the old-fashioned methods of ice cream making has begun, and the producers, as in Messina, rely on the old-fashioned methods and the use of the best ingredients.
• A major trend is the trend towards the use of sustainable packaging and a local supply chain, a trend influenced by the European regulations on the reduction of plastic waste.
• Similarly, the ice cream industry is benefiting from the growing popularity of culinary tourism, which has prompted people to seek authentic local experiences and flavours.

Asia-Pacific

• The new ice cream flavors, such as matcha and black sesame, have become very popular in the United States. Even the big companies, such as Haagen-Dazs, have introduced regional specialties to appeal to local tastes.
• The small-batch ice cream shops, especially in the cities, are in vogue. People are seeking more diversified and better quality desserts.
• In the meantime, government initiatives to promote local food production and entrepreneurship are spurring the growth of artisanal ice cream, especially in countries like Japan and South Korea.

MEA

• The ice cream industry in the Middle East is growing rapidly. Gelato Factory has introduced many new flavours, such as date and saffron.
• The ice cream has become a cultural phenomenon in the region, and its presence at festivals and cultural events is increasing.
• The food and beverage industry in the United Arab Emirates is undergoing a transformation. It is booming, especially the ice cream industry.

Latin America

• The ice cream market in Latin America is influenced by the traditional sweets, with brands like La Michoacana offering regional flavours that are reminiscent of the cultural heritage.
• Among the products of a new generation, the ice cream parlour is a small artisanal ice cream factory.
• Organic farming and sustainable agriculture are becoming more and more important. Local producers are now focusing on healthy practices in order to attract health-conscious consumers.

Did You Know?

“The demand for new flavours and combinations of flavours is increasing. As consumers seek out more unique gourmet experiences, ice cream makers are responding with unusual flavour combinations.” — Market Research Future

Segmental Market Size

Artisanal ice cream is experiencing strong growth, driven by consumers’ desire for unique, premium flavors and high-quality ingredients. This trend is part of the general trend toward personalization in food, where consumers seek to eat local, unique, and authentic food that reflects their personal tastes and values. In addition, the rise of social media has made artisanal brands more visible and has encouraged consumers to explore and share their experiences with niche ice cream.

The growth of the organic and natural food sector is mainly due to the growing importance of a healthy diet, the growing interest in organic and natural products, and the demand for companies to adopt eco-friendly practices. The current stage of the trend is characterized by a mature deployment. Notable players like Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams and Salt & Straw are leading the market. The main use cases are specialty shops, gourmet food festivals, and food delivery services, where consumers can experience unique flavors and handicrafts. Plant-based ice cream and seasonal flavors are driving the market. Small-batch production and the development of new flavors are driving the technology.

Future Outlook

The ice cream market is set to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2024 to 2030, with a projected market value increase from $63,6 million to $95 million. The growth is driven by a shift in consumer preference towards premium, high-quality products with natural ingredients and unique flavours. As health-conscious consumers look for indulgent but guilt-free treats, the demand for artisanal ice cream is expected to grow, with a potential penetration of up to 25% of the ice cream market by 2030, up from an estimated 15% in 2024.

Moreover, improvements in production methods and new flavours will help to further increase the market for artisanal ice cream. The use of sustainable practices, such as the use of recycled materials and the use of local raw materials, will also be appreciated by consumers. And finally, the increase in e-commerce and direct-to-consumer sales channels will bring greater availability and convenience, thus allowing artisanal ice cream to reach a larger audience. Also, new trends such as plant-based and dairy-free ice creams will increase their share in the market, catering to a wider range of dietary preferences and thereby broadening the customer base.

In conclusion, the ice cream industry is on a growth track, driven by the changing tastes of consumers, technological innovation and a growing concern for the environment. The companies that manage to exploit these trends and adapt to the new needs of consumers will be the ones to succeed in this changing landscape. The growth in the market is not just a reflection of the expansion of the market itself, but also a shift in the way consumers are buying ice cream. They are increasingly opting for the luxury, artisanal brands that offer them a better quality and experience.