Artisanal Ice Cream Market Size

Market Size Snapshot

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

The ice cream market is expected to grow to a size of $ 63.6 billion in 2024, reaching $ 95.8 billion by 2030. This growth rate translates into a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period. The growing demand for high-quality and premium products, as well as the trend towards artisanal and locally produced foods, is driving the growth of the market. The increasing health consciousness of consumers is reflected in the demand for natural and unique flavours, which are provided by artisanal ice creams. Also driving the growth of the market are technological developments in production processes and distribution. Small-batch production and the use of sustainable packaging appeal to consumers with an eco-friendly mindset. Brands such as Ben & Jerry's, Haagen-Dazs and local artisanal producers are exploring strategic opportunities, such as new product lines, through the establishment of new strategic alliances, and the exploration of plant-based alternatives to meet the varied needs of consumers. These efforts not only enhance brand loyalty but also increase market penetration.

Regional Market Size

Regional Deep Dive

The Artisanal Ice Cream Market is experiencing dynamic growth in various regions, mainly due to the growing demand for high-quality products made from natural ingredients. In North America, the Artisanal Ice Cream Market is characterized by a strong focus on local production and unique flavors, while in Europe, the Artisanal Ice Cream Market is characterized by a long tradition of artisanal production methods. In Asia-Pacific, gourmet ice cream is gaining momentum, mainly due to changing consumer preferences and a growing middle class. The Middle East and Africa are characterized by new flavors and the use of natural ingredients, while Latin America uses its culinary heritage to create unique flavors. In general, the Artisanal Ice Cream Market is experiencing strong growth, as consumers increasingly prefer products with a high level of quality and authenticity.

Europe

• The European market is witnessing a trend towards organic and sustainably sourced ingredients, with brands like Gelato Messina focusing on environmentally friendly practices to appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
• Innovations in flavor combinations, such as the incorporation of local herbs and spices, are becoming increasingly popular, with companies like Cornish Gelato experimenting with unique regional ingredients to differentiate their products.

Asia Pacific

• The introduction of traditional Asian flavors, such as matcha and black sesame, is gaining traction in the artisanal ice cream sector, with brands like Haagen-Dazs launching limited-edition flavors to cater to local tastes.
• The growth of e-commerce platforms is facilitating access to artisanal ice cream brands, allowing smaller producers to reach a broader audience, as seen with companies like Creamery Boutique Ice Cream leveraging online sales channels.

Latin America

• Latin America is capitalizing on its rich agricultural diversity, with artisanal ice cream producers like Helados La Michoacana using local fruits and flavors to create unique offerings that resonate with consumers.
• The region is also witnessing a rise in small-scale producers who are embracing traditional methods, supported by local government programs that promote entrepreneurship in the food sector.

North America

• The rise of plant-based and dairy-free options is reshaping the artisanal ice cream landscape, with companies like Van Leeuwen Ice Cream leading the charge by offering innovative flavors that cater to vegan consumers.
• Regulatory changes in food labeling are prompting artisanal ice cream producers to emphasize transparency in ingredient sourcing, with organizations such as the Specialty Food Association advocating for clearer labeling practices.

Middle East And Africa

• The Middle East is seeing a fusion of traditional desserts with artisanal ice cream, with brands like Bakemore focusing on incorporating local flavors such as rosewater and pistachio into their offerings.
• Government initiatives aimed at promoting local food production are encouraging artisanal ice cream makers to source ingredients locally, which is expected to enhance the authenticity and appeal of their products.

Did You Know?

“Did you know that the global artisanal ice cream market is increasingly influenced by the trend of 'locavore' eating, where consumers prefer products made from locally sourced ingredients?” — Mintel Report on Ice Cream Trends

Segmental Market Size

The Artisanal Ice Cream market is growing rapidly. The demand for unique flavors, quality ingredients, and local sourcing are the main drivers of this growth. Unlike mass-produced ice cream, Artisanal Ice Cream offers consumers a unique taste experience. This market is already in a mature stage of development with leaders such as Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams and Salt & Straw in the US and Europe. These companies are the best examples of the successful implementation of Artisanal practices. In terms of application, the Artisanal Ice Cream market is dominated by specialty ice cream shops, speciality grocers, and food festivals. These are all direct-to-consumer channels. These trends are accompanied by the emergence of plant-based alternatives and the implementation of sustainable practices. In recent years, consumers have been increasingly conscious of ethical consumption. The emergence of small-scale production equipment and advanced flavor extraction methods have also played a role in the development of Artisanal Ice Cream.

Future Outlook

From 2024 to 2030 the ice cream market is expected to grow at a rate of 4.2% a year. This growth is driven by the increasing popularity of premium, high-quality products, which highlight the naturalness of their ingredients and the uniqueness of their flavours. Taking advantage of the growing interest in guilt-free pleasures, the demand for artisanal ice cream is likely to spread to more and more markets, and by 2030 it could account for as much as 15% of the total ice cream market. Further advances in technology, such as improved production methods and the development of new flavours, will further enhance the appeal of artisanal ice cream. The trend towards sustainable development is also influencing consumers’ buying habits, and brands that place a high priority on sustainable practices and local sourcing are likely to gain a competitive edge. The popularity of dairy-free and plant-based ice creams will also be a growth driver, as they cater for a range of dietary preferences. These trends will continue to evolve, but artisanal ice cream is well positioned to take advantage of them and to enjoy robust growth over the coming years.