Europe Ice Cream Market Report 2021-2031 by Scope, Segmentation, Dynamics, and Competitive Analysis

Description

List of Tables

The European ice cream market is projected to grow significantly, reaching approximately USD 39.25 billion by 2031, up from USD 27.97 billion in 2023, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.3% during this period.

Executive Summary and Market Analysis

The rising demand for frozen dairy products, coupled with evolving consumer preferences for taste and convenience, is driving the growth of the ice cream market in Europe. There is a notable shift towards low-fat and natural ice creams that offer indulgent flavors. Additionally, frozen desserts are increasingly being viewed as a pleasant way to aid digestion after meals, further boosting their popularity.

A key trend in the market is premiumization, where consumers are gravitating towards unique flavors and high-quality products. This trend is supported by increasing disposable incomes and the introduction of a variety of dessert options that cater to diverse tastes. Premium ice creams, characterized by higher butterfat content and a denser texture, are gaining traction. Urbanization and advancements in dairy technology are also contributing to the demand for both luxury and standard ice creams. Notably, in June 2024, See's Candies and McConnell's Fine Ice Creams launched a limited-edition collection featuring four collaborative flavors.

Manufacturers are actively pursuing expansion strategies to meet consumer demand. For example, in January 2024, Greenyard acquired Creme de la Creme, a Belgian producer of plant-based ice cream, enhancing its portfolio in the frozen dessert sector. Gelato is also witnessing a surge in popularity, prompting European brands to expand internationally. In February 2023, the Italian gelato brand Amorino increased its UK franchise from 20 to over 30 locations, partnering with Seeds Consulting for further expansion.

Market Segmentation Analysis

The European ice cream market can be segmented by flavor, category, form, and distribution channel:

Flavor: The market includes vanilla, chocolate, berries, matcha, and others, with vanilla holding the largest market share in 2023.
Category: The market is divided into conventional and sugar-free segments, with conventional ice cream dominating in 2023.
Form: Ice cream is available in cups and tubs, bars and sticks, among other forms, with cups and tubs leading the market.
Distribution Channel: Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the primary distribution channels, holding the largest share in 2023.

Market Outlook

Functional ice cream is gaining traction among health-conscious consumers due to its high-quality ingredients and nutritional benefits. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on fortifying ice creams with functional ingredients, which can help address specific health needs. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the demand for healthier options, with low-sugar and high-protein ice creams becoming particularly popular among athletes and health-focused consumers. For instance, a Polish startup, Bio Ice Cream Dots, developed probiotic ice cream dots with support from the EIT Jumpstarter NEXT program, showcasing innovation in the sector. In 2023, Myprotein launched a line of protein-rich ice creams in Iceland, featuring flavors like Salted Caramel and Chocolate, each containing around 100 calories and at least 10g of protein per serving.

The rise of functional ice cream is largely driven by product innovations that enhance taste and nutritional value. These innovations allow consumers to enjoy indulgent treats while adhering to their health goals, a trend that has gained momentum since the pandemic. As consumers increasingly seek convenient yet nutritious food options, manufacturers are responding by launching nutritionally enriched ice creams, thereby expanding their market reach and competitive advantage.

Country Insights

The European ice cream market includes key countries such as Germany, the UK, France, Italy, Spain, and others. The Rest of Europe segment held the largest market share in 2023, driven by innovative flavors and advancements in production technology. Countries like Russia, Poland, and the Netherlands are notable contributors to this segment, with consumers showing a keen interest in unique flavor experiences. For example, the Russian company Dandelion has introduced innovative flavors like Cacao fruit and Lime ice cream.

Company Profiles

Key players in the ice cream market include Blue Bell Creameries, Unilever Plc, Nestle SA, General Mills Inc, Mars Inc, and others. These companies are employing various strategies such as product innovation, expansion, and mergers and acquisitions to enhance their market presence and cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Product Code: BMIRE00026995

1. Introduction

1.1 Report Guidance
1.2 Market Segmentation

2. Executive Summary

2.1 Key Insights
2.2 Market Attractiveness

3. Research Methodology

3.1 Secondary Research
3.2 Primary Research
- 3.2.1 Hypothesis formulation:
- 3.2.2 Macro-economic factor analysis:
- 3.2.3 Developing base number:
- 3.2.4 Data Triangulation:
- 3.2.5 Country level data:

4. Ice Cream Market Landscape

4.1 Overview
4.2 Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.2.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.2.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 4.2.3 Competitive Rivalry
- 4.2.4 Threat of Substitutes
- 4.2.5 Threat of New Entrants
4.3 Ecosystem Analysis
- 4.3.1 Raw Materials:
- 4.3.2 Manufacturing Process:
- 4.3.3 Distributors
- 4.3.4 Distribution Channel
4.4 List of Vendors in the Value Chain

5. Europe Ice Cream Market - Key Market Dynamics

5.1 Market Drivers
- 5.1.1 Popularity of Ice Cream Among All Age Groups
- 5.1.2 Availability of Innovative Flavors
5.2 Market Restraints
- 5.2.1 Health Concerns Associated with Ice Cream
5.3 Market Opportunities
- 5.3.1 Rising Popularity of Functional Ice Cream
5.4 Future Trends
- 5.4.1 Increasing Demand for Dairy-Free and Vegan Ice Cream
5.5 Impact of Drivers and Restraints:

6. Europe Ice Cream Market - Europe Analysis

6.1 Europe Ice Cream Market Revenue (US$ Million), 2021-2031
6.2 Europe Ice Cream Market Forecast Analysis

7. Europe Ice Cream Market Analysis - by Flavor

7.1 Vanilla
- 7.1.1 Overview
- 7.1.2 Vanilla: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
7.2 Chocolate
- 7.2.1 Overview
- 7.2.2 Chocolate: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
7.3 Berries
- 7.3.1 Overview
- 7.3.2 Berries: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
7.4 Matcha
- 7.4.1 Overview
- 7.4.2 Matcha: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
7.5 Others
- 7.5.1 Overview
- 7.5.2 Others: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)

8. Europe Ice Cream Market Analysis - by Category

8.1 Conventional
- 8.1.1 Overview
- 8.1.2 Conventional: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
8.2 Sugar Free
- 8.2.1 Overview
- 8.2.2 Sugar Free: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)

9. Europe Ice Cream Market Analysis - by Form

9.1 Cups and Tubs
- 9.1.1 Overview
- 9.1.2 Cups and Tubs: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
9.2 Bars and Sticks
- 9.2.1 Overview
- 9.2.2 Bars and Sticks: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
9.3 Others
- 9.3.1 Overview
- 9.3.2 Others: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)

10. Europe Ice Cream Market Analysis - by Distribution Channel

10.1 Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- 10.1.1 Overview
- 10.1.2 Supermarkets and Hypermarkets: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
10.2 Specialty Stores
- 10.2.1 Overview
- 10.2.2 Specialty Stores: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
10.3 Online Retail
- 10.3.1 Overview
- 10.3.2 Online Retail: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
10.4 Others
- 10.4.1 Overview
- 10.4.2 Others: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)

11. Europe Ice Cream Market - Country Analysis

11.1 Europe
- 11.1.1 Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast Analysis - by Country
  - 11.1.1.1 Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast Analysis - by Country
  - 11.1.1.2 Germany: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
    - 11.1.1.2.1 Germany: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Flavor
    - 11.1.1.2.2 Germany: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Category
    - 11.1.1.2.3 Germany: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Form
    - 11.1.1.2.4 Germany: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Distribution Channel
  - 11.1.1.3 United Kingdom: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
    - 11.1.1.3.1 United Kingdom: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Flavor
    - 11.1.1.3.2 United Kingdom: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Category
    - 11.1.1.3.3 United Kingdom: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Form
    - 11.1.1.3.4 United Kingdom: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Distribution Channel
  - 11.1.1.4 France: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
    - 11.1.1.4.1 France: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Flavor
    - 11.1.1.4.2 France: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Category
    - 11.1.1.4.3 France: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Form
    - 11.1.1.4.4 France: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Distribution Channel
  - 11.1.1.5 Italy: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
    - 11.1.1.5.1 Italy: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Flavor
    - 11.1.1.5.2 Italy: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Category
    - 11.1.1.5.3 Italy: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Form
    - 11.1.1.5.4 Italy: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Distribution Channel
  - 11.1.1.6 Spain: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
    - 11.1.1.6.1 Spain: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Flavor
    - 11.1.1.6.2 Spain: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Category
    - 11.1.1.6.3 Spain: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Form
    - 11.1.1.6.4 Spain: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Distribution Channel
  - 11.1.1.7 Rest of Europe: Europe Ice Cream Market - Revenue and Forecast, 2021-2031 (US$ Million)
    - 11.1.1.7.1 Rest of Europe: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Flavor
    - 11.1.1.7.2 Rest of Europe: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Category
    - 11.1.1.7.3 Rest of Europe: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Form
    - 11.1.1.7.4 Rest of Europe: Europe Ice Cream Market Share - by Distribution Channel

12. Competitive Landscape

12.1 Company Positioning & Concentration
12.2 Heat Map Analysis

13. Industry Landscape

13.1 Overview
13.2 Agreements, Collaborations, And Joint Ventures
13.3 Product Launch
13.4 Expansions And Other Strategic Developments

14. Company Profiles

14.1 Blue Bell Creameries
- 14.1.1 Key Facts
- 14.1.2 Business Description
- 14.1.3 Products and Services
- 14.1.4 Financial Overview
- 14.1.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.1.6 Key Developments
14.2 Unilever Plc
- 14.2.1 Key Facts
- 14.2.2 Business Description
- 14.2.3 Products and Services
- 14.2.4 Financial Overview
- 14.2.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.2.6 Key Developments
14.3 Nestle SA
- 14.3.1 Key Facts
- 14.3.2 Business Description
- 14.3.3 Products and Services
- 14.3.4 Financial Overview
- 14.3.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.3.6 Key Developments
14.4 General Mills Inc
- 14.4.1 Key Facts
- 14.4.2 Business Description
- 14.4.3 Products and Services
- 14.4.4 Financial Overview
- 14.4.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.4.6 Key Developments
14.5 Mars Inc
- 14.5.1 Key Facts
- 14.5.2 Business Description
- 14.5.3 Products and Services
- 14.5.4 Financial Overview
- 14.5.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.5.6 Key Developments
14.6 Wells Enterprises Inc
- 14.6.1 Key Facts
- 14.6.2 Business Description
- 14.6.3 Products and Services
- 14.6.4 Financial Overview
- 14.6.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.6.6 Key Developments
14.7 Turkey Hill Dairy
- 14.7.1 Key Facts
- 14.7.2 Business Description
- 14.7.3 Products and Services
- 14.7.4 Financial Overview
- 14.7.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.7.6 Key Developments
14.8 Dairy Farmers of America, Inc.
- 14.8.1 Key Facts
- 14.8.2 Business Description
- 14.8.3 Products and Services
- 14.8.4 Financial Overview
- 14.8.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.8.6 Key Developments
14.9 Cold Stone Creamery
- 14.9.1 Key Facts
- 14.9.2 Business Description
- 14.9.3 Products and Services
- 14.9.4 Financial Overview
- 14.9.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.9.6 Key Developments
14.10 Morinaga Milk Industry Co Ltd
- 14.10.1 Key Facts
- 14.10.2 Business Description
- 14.10.3 Products and Services
- 14.10.4 Financial Overview
- 14.10.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.10.6 Key Developments
14.11 Kwality Foods, LLC.
- 14.11.1 Key Facts
- 14.11.2 Business Description
- 14.11.3 Products and Services
- 14.11.4 Financial Overview
- 14.11.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.11.6 Key Developments
14.12 Baskin-Robbins
- 14.12.1 Key Facts
- 14.12.2 Business Description
- 14.12.3 Products and Services
- 14.12.4 Financial Overview
- 14.12.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.12.6 Key Developments
14.13 David Chapman's Ice Cream Limited
- 14.13.1 Key Facts
- 14.13.2 Business Description
- 14.13.3 Products and Services
- 14.13.4 Financial Overview
- 14.13.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.13.6 Key Developments
14.14 Lotus Bakeries NV
- 14.14.1 Key Facts
- 14.14.2 Business Description
- 14.14.3 Products and Services
- 14.14.4 Financial Overview
- 14.14.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.14.6 Key Developments
14.15 IMURAYA GROUP CO., LTD
- 14.15.1 Key Facts
- 14.15.2 Business Description
- 14.15.3 Products and Services
- 14.15.4 Financial Overview
- 14.15.5 SWOT Analysis
- 14.15.6 Key Developments

15. Appendix

15.1 About The Insight Partners