EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market Research Report Information By Type (Modular, Undercounter, Countertop, Combination, and Others), by Category (Air Cooled and Water Cooled), by Ice Type (Cube Ice, Nugget Ice, Gourmet Ice, Crescent Ice, Flake Ice, and Other), by End User (Hotel, Restaurants, Quick Service Restaurants, Cafes, and Others), by Pricing (Economy/Mass and Premium), by Distribution Channel (Store Based and Non-Store Based), and by Region (Europe, and Middle East & Africa)- Forecast Till 2032

EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market Overview

EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market Size was valued at USD 734.49 million in 2023. The Commercial Ice Machine industry is projected to grow from 2024 to USD 1,128.28 million by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.91% during the forecast period (2024 - 2032). The EMEA Commercial Ice Machine market has witnessed a transformative shift in recent years, driven significantly by urbanization and lifestyle changes, surging hospitality and tourism industry, and rising food & beverage sector.

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Commercial Ice Machine Market Trends

Energy Efficiency

The EMEA commercial ice machine market is witnessing significant shifts driven by various key trends. Energy efficiency has become a pivotal focus as businesses aim to reduce operational costs and meet stringent environmental regulations. Ice machines that consume less energy and integrate advanced cooling technologies are in high demand, as they not only lower electricity bills but also align with sustainability goals. Rising demand for nugget ice machines is another prominent trend, particularly in sectors like hospitality and healthcare. Nugget ice, known for its chewable texture, has gained popularity in beverages, especially in fast-casual dining and quick-service restaurants. In healthcare, nugget ice is preferred for patient care due to its easy-to-chew form, making it a safer and more comfortable option for patients. This surge in demand is prompting manufacturers to expand their product lines to include versatile nugget ice machines that cater to both large and small-scale operations. The healthcare sector itself is a growing market for commercial ice machines. Hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities are increasingly investing in high-quality ice machines to meet patient needs and adhere to strict hygiene standards. 

The demand is driven by the need for reliable ice supplies for therapeutic purposes and patient hydration, emphasizing machines that offer consistent performance and easy sanitation. Digitalization is reshaping the market with smart, connected ice machines that offer remote monitoring, predictive maintenance, and energy management. This trend is crucial for businesses looking to optimize operations and reduce downtime. IoT-enabled machines provide real-time data, allowing operators to anticipate issues and maintain high levels of efficiency. In addition, hygiene and sanitation have become non-negotiable priorities in the post-pandemic era. Ice machines with antimicrobial components, automated cleaning cycles, and easy-to-maintain designs are in high demand. The focus on hygiene is especially critical in sectors like food service and healthcare, where contamination risks must be minimized.

Commercial Ice Machine Market Segment Insights

Commercial Ice Machine Type Insights

Based on type, the EMEA Commercial Ice Machine market has been segmented into modular, undercounter, countertop, combination, and others. The modular segment accounted for the largest market share of 35.80 % in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 6.11% during the projected period. Modular ice machines also referred to as “ice machine heads” are commercial ice makers that include ice-making functionality. Modular ice machines are specialized equipment designed to produce large quantities of ice. These machines are the most popular industrial ice machines because of their features, which can be set up for different environments. The versatility of modular ice machines is what makes them so common. They can be paired with a bin to be scooped into buckets, placed over an ice dispenser in a hotel, or used with a soda fountain in a restaurant. It is suitable for large-scale enterprises in bars, hotels, banquet halls, busy restaurants, fishmongers, and other fresh food outlet establishments that have a continuous demand for a substantial amount of ice. Machines ensure the highest freshness of produce with their advanced cooling technology.

Figure 1: EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market, by Type, 2023 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Commercial Ice Machine Category Insights

Based on the category, the EMEA Commercial Ice Machine market has been bifurcated into air cooled and water cooled. The air-cooled segment has accounted for the largest market share of 59.93% in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 5.64% during the projected period. The process of ice-making needs a condenser for cooling purposes. This equipment is designed to remove heat from the refrigerant, which in turn cools the water used to make ice. Heat is expelled into the surrounding air, as usually there are vents on the top or sides of machines. Through fans, they pull air from their surroundings, and this is how air-cooled ice machines work. The coils are made of condenser coils, which draw the heat that was produced during the refrigeration process. And when the air flows over these coils, it makes them cooler, allowing the refrigerant inside to freeze water and form ice cubes. So, after all, hot air would be blown back to the room, while ice would go into a bin for safekeeping until it could be used later on. Air-cooled ice makers have lower operating costs and are easier to install because they do not require a separate water line for cooling purposes. However, they need appropriate ventilation and sufficient space for efficient airflow that could prevent overheating. Their efficiency can decrease in hot or confined spaces, leading to an increase in room temperature.

Figure 2: EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market, by Category, 2023 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Commercial Ice Machine Ice Type Insights

Based on the ice type, the EMEA Commercial Ice Machine market has been bifurcated into Cube Ice, Nugget Ice, Gourmet Ice, Crescent Ice, Flake Ice, and Other. The cube ice segment has accounted for the largest market share of 32.29% in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 6.46% during the projected period. Ice cubes elevate the act of chilling drinks to an art form. Their impressive size and unique shapes offer several advantages. Unlike regular cubes, large ice shapes are crafted using specialized freezing methods that result in a denser structure. This translates to a slower melt rate. It is one of the most common and versatile forms of ice used in commercial settings. Cube ice melts more slowly than other types of ice, such as flake or nugget ice. This helps keep drinks cold for longer periods without diluting them quickly. Minimizing dilution and ensuring drink stays perfectly chilled for a longer duration. This is essential for enjoying the entire flavor profile of premium liquors or carefully mixed cocktails, because the addition of even a small amount of water can change the flavor character. Cube ice is commonly utilized in restaurants, bars, cafes, and hotels to chill beverages such as soft drinks, water, and cocktails.

Figure 3: EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market, by ice type, 2023 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Commercial Ice Machine End User Insights

Based on the end user, the EMEA Commercial Ice Machine market has been bifurcated into Hotel, Restaurants, Quick Service Restaurants, Cafes, and others. The hotel segment has accounted for the largest market share of 36.20 % in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 5.93 % during the projected period. Hotels that offer catering services rely heavily on ice, whether it is for room service. The presentation of food and drinks, in addition to the preparation and serving of perishable items, all require ice. Huge quantities of ice may also be needed by hotels hosting grand events like weddings, conferences, or banquets to keep drinks cold and maintain attractive food displays throughout the event. Consequently, a hotel’s ice machine should have sufficient capacity for them to run smoothly, upon which the success of these events depends since a lack of ice would disrupt service delivery. Moreover, having an ice machine at hotels can improve operational efficiencies by reducing costly and logistically challenging regular deliveries, particularly in larger facilities. On-site production therefore allows hotels to manage their inventory more efficiently, leading to less waste while ensuring fresh, clean ice is always available to engage both guests and operations effectively.

Figure 4: EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market, by end user, 2023 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Commercial Ice Machine Pricing Insights

Based on the pricing, the EMEA Commercial Ice Machine market has been segmented into economy/mass and premium. The economy/mass segment accounted for the largest market share of 66.08% in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 5.51% during the projected period. The economy pricing range is particularly attractive to small businesses, start-ups, and establishments that have lower ice demands or are focused on cost-efficiency. Economy-priced commercial ice makers usually provide the basic functionality required for daily operations. These devices are appropriate for companies with moderate ice needs because they are frequently smaller in size and have a lower ice output capacity than premium models. They are made to be simple to operate, with simple controls and little maintenance needs, which is helpful for companies without the staff to manage complicated machinery. Although the materials in less expensive machines may not be as sturdy as those in more expensive versions, they are usually still enough for companies that do not require the machine to run constantly at full capacity.

Figure 5: EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market, by pricing, 2023 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Commercial Ice Machine Distribution Channel Insights

Based on the distribution channel, the EMEA Commercial Ice Machine market has been bifurcated into Store Based and Non-Store Based. The store-based segment accounted for the largest market share of 62.72% in 2023 and is likely to register a CAGR of 4.09% during the projected period. Store-based distribution channels for commercial ice machines involve physical retail outlets where customers can directly purchase or order these machines. This approach of distribution is still in the market, especially for the kind of business that requires the customer to see the product before purchasing. Store-based channels comprise specialized commercial appliance stores, mass market retailers, and equipment wholesalers directly associated with the food service and hospitality trade. Physically visiting a retail establishment enables the customer to examine and engage with the ice machine before purchasing it, which is perceived as one of the many factors benefiting the store-based channels. This can prove useful to the business, especially where there is a need to validate the machine’s operational needs.

Figure 6: EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market, by distribution channel, 2023 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Commercial Ice Machine Regional Insights

By Country, the study segments the market into Europe, and Middle East & Africa. Europe Commercial Ice Machine market accounts for the largest market share 86.24% in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a 5.09% CAGR. The European market is driven by several factors that reflect the region's economic, cultural, and technological trends. Commercial ice machines are in high demand as companies in many industries realize how important it is to produce ice quickly and reliably. This increase is noteworthy for sectors including retail, food service, hospitality, and healthcare where having high-quality ice is essential to daily operations. The drivers of the commercial ice machine market in Europe are the growth of the hospitality and tourism sectors. Europe is a top global destination for tourists, and the region's hotels, resorts, restaurants, and cafes require consistent ice supplies to meet the demands of their guests. The rise in tourism, in Southern Europe and major cities, has led to an increased number of food and beverage outlets, all of which rely on commercial ice machines to serve chilled drinks, cocktails, and maintain food safety standards. For example, ITV ICE MAKERS S.L. focused on hospitality equipment at the HOST 2021 fair in Milan in October 2021, where it displayed the newest developments in ice machine technology. ITV was able to interact with customers, showcase advancements in the ice machine business, and strengthen its brand recognition among industry players.

Figure 7: EMEA Commercial Ice Machine Market, by region, 2023 & 2032 (USD Million)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Further studies are done on following countries and regions: Germany, UK, France, Spain, Italy, Austria, Belgium, Netherland, Switzerland, Poland, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, Southern Africa, Nigeria, and Turkey.

Commercial Ice Machine Key Market Players & Competitive Insights

The growing number of restaurants, hotels, and cafes across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) is driving the demand for commercial ice machines. These establishments require a constant supply of ice for beverages, food preservation, and presentations. There's a rising trend in the consumption of cold beverages, including iced coffee, soft drinks, and cocktails. This increased consumption is boosting the demand for commercial ice machines in bars, cafes, and other food and beverage establishments. Nugget ice machines are increasingly popular, particularly in the foodservice and healthcare industries. Nugget ice, also known as pellet ice or chewable ice, is favored for its chewability and rapid cooling properties. It is used in a variety of applications, including blended beverages and salad bars, due to its ability to absorb flavors and maintain consistent temperature. Nugget ice is favored in restaurants, cafes, and bars due to its chewable texture and quick cooling ability, enhancing customer satisfaction. Flake ice machines are seeing a rise in demand, especially in the seafood, grocery, and healthcare industries. Flake ice, characterized by its thin, flat, and fluffy shape, is known for its excellent cooling and display properties. Cube ice machines are consistently popular, especially in the hospitality and foodservice sectors. Cube ice, which comes in various sizes (full cubes, half cubes, and small cubes), remains a classic choice due to its slow melting rate and consistent cooling performance. There is a trend toward energy-efficient and environmentally friendly ice machines. Consumers and businesses are increasingly prioritizing products that reduce energy consumption and have a minimal environmental impact. Improved living standards and a growing preference for modern amenities in both residential and commercial spaces are contributing to the increased adoption of commercial ice machines. As disposable incomes rise in various EMEA countries, consumers are more likely to spend on dining out and entertainment, which in turn increases the demand for ice in commercial establishments. Modular ice machines drive growth due to their scalability, space efficiency, and operational flexibility. They allow for easy upgrades and maintenance, offer high production capacity, and incorporate advanced energy-saving technologies. Their adaptability in installation and cost-effective incremental investment makes them ideal for varying commercial needs.

Key Companies in the Commercial Ice Machine market include

• Hoshizaki Corporation (Japan)


• Ali Group Worldwide (Italy)


• The Middleby Corporation (US)


• Whirlpool Corporation (US)


• Electrolux Professional Group (Sweden)


• ZIEGRA Eismaschinen GmbH (Germany)


• ONNERA Group (Spain)


• KTI - Plersch Kältetechnik GmbH (Germany)


• WESSAMAT Eismaschinenfabrik GmbH (Germany)


• Maxx Ice (Florida)


• Polar Refrigeration (UK)

Commercial Ice Machine Industry Developments

July 2024: Scotsman, a leading manufacturer of commercial ice machines and part of the Ali Group, has recently introduced the Meridian HID207 Compact Countertop Ice and Water Dispenser. This state-of-the-art machine promises to revolutionize the way businesses access and enjoy ice and water, combining convenience and efficiency in a compact design.

February 2024: Hoshizaki Corporation announced plans to expand its product lineup using HFC-free natural refrigerants. The company is planning to begin adopting HFC-free refrigerants for standard model ice machines and at the same time launch undercounter-type commercial natural refrigerant-based refrigerators and freezers. This initiative aims to enhance environmental sustainability and respond to growing customer demand for eco-friendly solutions in the refrigeration and ice-making sectors.

Commercial Ice Machine Market Segmentation

Commercial Ice Machine Type Outlook

• Modular


• Undercounter


• Countertop


• Combination


• Others

Commercial Ice Machine Category Outlook

• Air Cooled


• Water Cooled

Commercial Ice Machine Ice Type Outlook

• Cube Ice


• Nugget Ice


• Gourmet Ice


• Crescent Ice


• Flake Ice


• Other

Commercial Ice Machine End User Outlook

• Hotel


• Restaurants


• Quick Service Restaurants


• Cafes


• Others

Commercial Ice Machine Pricing Outlook

• Economy/Mass


• Premium

Commercial Ice Machine Distribution Channel Outlook

• Store Based


• Non-Store Based

Commercial Ice Machine Region Outlook

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  Europe

  
  


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  Germany

  
  


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  UK

  
  


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  France

  
  


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  Spain

  
  


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  Italy

  
  


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  Austria

  
  


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  Belgium

  
  


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  Netherland

  
  


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  Switzerland

  
  


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  Poland

  
  


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  Rest of Europe

  
  


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  Middle East & Africa

  
  


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  Saudi Arabia

  
  


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  UAE

  
  


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  Egypt

  
  


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  South Africa

  
  


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  Nigeria

  
  


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  Turkey

  
  


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  Rest of Middle East & Africa