PUBLISHER: The Insight Partners | PRODUCT CODE: 1871404
PUBLISHER: The Insight Partners | PRODUCT CODE: 1871404
The North American ice cream market is projected to grow significantly, reaching approximately USD 31.79 billion by 2031, up from USD 24.70 billion in 2023, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% during this period.
Executive Summary and Market Analysis
The growth of the ice cream market in North America is driven by several factors, including a rising demand for premium ice creams, a diverse range of flavors, and a growing preference for products made with natural ingredients and without preservatives. The trend towards vegan, lactose-free, GMO-free, and dairy-free desserts is prompting manufacturers to innovate and expand their product lines. Notably, there is a marked increase in the demand for lactose-free and vegan ice creams, particularly in the United States. For example, in February 2024, Perfect Day Inc. partnered with Unilever Plc to introduce Breyers Lactose-Free Chocolate.
The expansion of fast-food restaurants and the increasing use of natural ingredients in frozen dairy products are also contributing to the market's growth. Major brands such as Unilever, Ben & Jerry's, Nestle, and Blue Bell Creameries are key players in this market, actively engaging in mergers, acquisitions, collaborations, and product launches to meet consumer demand. A recent example includes Perry's Ice Cream, which expanded its production facility in Akron, US, in June 2024 to enhance its ice cream production capacity.
Market Segmentation Analysis
The North American ice cream market can be segmented based on flavor, category, form, and distribution channel:
Market Outlook
The rise of veganism has significantly influenced consumer preferences, with many opting for plant-based products perceived as healthier alternatives. Increased awareness of animal welfare and environmental sustainability is further driving the popularity of vegan food products. The trend is particularly strong in Southeast Asia, impacting innovations in the ice cream sector. According to Veganuary, a nonprofit organization promoting veganism, around 5.8 million people participated in the "Veganuary Campaign" in 2021.
Brands like Ben & Jerry's and Nestle are actively participating in the plant-based ice cream market. For instance, in 2022, Ben & Jerry's launched two new plant-based ice creams: Chocolate Milk and Cookies and Dirt Cake. The growing trend towards plant-based foods is expected to introduce new dynamics in the ice cream market throughout the forecast period.
Country Insights
The North American ice cream market is primarily composed of the US, Canada, and Mexico, with the US holding the largest market share in 2023. The US market is characterized by a strong demand for premium ice cream, a preference for healthier options, and a growing interest in innovative flavors. Key players are responding to this demand through various strategies, including mergers, acquisitions, and product launches. For example, Perry's Ice Cream's recent facility expansion in Akron aims to boost production to meet increasing consumer demand. Additionally, well-developed distribution channels such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, online retail, and specialty stores are enhancing product availability, further driving ice cream consumption across the nation.
Company Profiles
Key players in the ice cream market include Blue Bell Creameries, Unilever Plc, Nestle SA, General Mills Inc, Mars Inc, Wells Enterprises Inc, Turkey Hill Dairy, Dairy Farmers of America, Morinaga Milk Industry Co Ltd, Kwality Foods, LLC, Baskin-Robbins, David Chapman's Ice Cream Limited, Cold Stone Creamery, Lotus Bakeries NV, and IMURAYA GROUP CO., LTD. These companies are pursuing various strategies, including expansion, product innovation, and mergers and acquisitions, to enhance their market presence and cater to evolving consumer preferences.