GITNUXREPORT 2025

Ice Cream Industry Statistics

Ice cream industry booming globally with growing artisan, organic, vegan, and premium segments.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

Approximately 90% of Americans consume ice cream at least once a year

Statistic 2

The most popular ice cream flavor in the US is vanilla, accounting for around 29% of all sales

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Millennials constitute around 40% of ice cream consumers in the US, driving innovation and flavor trends

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Around 60% of consumers prefer to buy ice cream in soft serve form, especially in quick-service restaurants

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The most popular toppings for ice cream in the US are sprinkles, chocolate syrup, and crushed cookies, with over 70% of consumers adding toppings regularly

Statistic 6

Environmental concerns are influencing the industry, with 65% of consumers willing to pay more for eco-friendly packaging

Statistic 7

Over 50% of ice cream consumers prefer buy-one-get-one-free promotions, especially in supermarket settings

Statistic 8

The percentage of consumers seeking gluten-free options in ice cream increased by nearly 20% in the last five years, reflecting dietary trend shifts

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The popularity of ethnic and international flavors in ice cream increased by 12% in 2023, including options like matcha, dulce de leche, and yuzu

Statistic 10

The top reason consumers choose premium or artisanal ice cream is for quality and natural ingredients, at 65%

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Over 80% of ice cream sales are made in single-serve sizes, highlighting convenience as a major purchasing factor

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The average price of a pint of premium ice cream in the US is approximately $5.50, reflecting the value placed on quality and craft

Statistic 13

Approximately 35% of consumers in urban areas prefer to buy ice cream from specialty or gourmet shops, compared to 20% in rural areas, indicating geographic differences in shopping preferences

Statistic 14

Flavored ice creams combined account for more than 80% of total ice cream sales in many regions, with seasonal flavors gaining popularity

Statistic 15

Approximately 25% of ice cream consumers in the US are under 18 years old, indicating strong interest among youth

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70% of consumers prefer to purchase ice cream with real fruit ingredients, supporting the trend toward natural and wholesome options

Statistic 17

The trend toward personalized ice cream allows customers to choose their own flavors and toppings, adopted by 30% of new ice creameries

Statistic 18

The average profit margin for independent ice cream shops is approximately 12%, highlighting the importance of product quality and customer experience

Statistic 19

The gluten-free ice cream segment experienced a 9% growth in 2022, driven by dietary restrictions and health trends

Statistic 20

The use of lactose-free ingredients in ice cream increased by 15% in 2022, driven by lactose intolerance awareness

Statistic 21

The gluten-free ice cream segment grew by approximately 10% in 2022, reflecting increasing dietary restrictions

Statistic 22

The use of sustainable and biodegradable packaging in the ice cream industry increased by 30% over the past three years, driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly products

Statistic 23

The top health concern related to ice cream consumption is high sugar content, with 55% of consumers actively seeking reduced-sugar options

Statistic 24

In 2023, 45% of ice cream purchases in the US are made in supermarkets, while 35% are bought in convenience stores

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The average shelf life of packaged ice cream products in groceries is approximately 9 months, influencing inventory and sales strategies

Statistic 26

The fastest-growing distribution channel for ice cream in 2023 is online direct-to-consumer sales, increasing by 22%, reflecting digital shopping trends

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The global ice cream market was valued at approximately $65 billion in 2022

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The United States is the largest consumer of ice cream, with over 48 million gallons sold annually

Statistic 29

The average American consumes about 23 pounds of ice cream per year

Statistic 30

The global ice cream cone market size was valued at $7.2 billion in 2021

Statistic 31

The organic ice cream segment has grown by over 12% annually over the past five years

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Vegan ice cream sales increased by 25% in 2022, reflecting the rising plant-based food trend

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The per capita ice cream consumption in India is approximately 1.3 liters, one of the lowest globally, but the market is rapidly expanding

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The top five ice cream brands in the US hold around 60% of the market share

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The number of artisanal and craft ice cream shops in the US increased by 18% in 2022, reflecting consumer demand for local and unique products

Statistic 36

Seasonal sales account for approximately 60% of total ice cream sales in the US, peaking during summer months

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The global soft serve ice cream market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% from 2023 to 2030

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The largest segment of the ice cream industry by ingredient is dairy-based, accounting for around 83% of sales globally

Statistic 39

The plant-based ice cream segment represented about 13% of the global market share in 2022 and is expected to grow rapidly

Statistic 40

The retail value of ice cream products sold through vending machines is estimated to reach $1.2 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 5%

Statistic 41

Seasonal spikes in ice cream sales can be as high as 150% compared to off-season periods, especially in summer

Statistic 42

The caffeine-infused ice cream segment is growing at a 7% annual rate, appealing to a niche market of energy-conscious consumers

Statistic 43

The global organic ice cream market is projected to reach $4.3 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2022

Statistic 44

Revenue from in-home ice cream consumption is expected to make up 70% of the total market in 2024, emphasizing the shift towards retail and direct-to-consumer sales

Statistic 45

The world's largest ice cream cone sculpture, built in Italy, measures over 27 meters tall, symbolizing the industry’s cultural significance

Statistic 46

The global market share for frozen yogurt in the overall frozen desserts segment was around 12% in 2022, and is expected to grow

Statistic 47

The average household in the US bought 4.5 gallons of ice cream in 2022, highlighting steady consumer demand

Statistic 48

The sales of ice cream novelties, such as bars and popsicles, account for approximately 40% of total ice cream revenue, showcasing preference for on-the-go treats

Statistic 49

The global artisan ice cream market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2022-2028, due to rising consumer interest in premium products

Statistic 50

The number of ice cream trucks operating in the US increased by around 10% in 2023, reflecting ongoing popularity of mobile vending

Statistic 51

The retail sales of gelato are projected to reach $2.5 billion globally by 2025, driven by its premium positioning

Statistic 52

The global market for dairy-free ice cream is expected to reach $2.8 billion by 2026, with a CAGR of 10.5%, driven by allergen concerns and dietary choices

Statistic 53

The flavor innovation segment accounts for approximately 15% of new product launches in the ice cream industry

Statistic 54

The Mediterranean diet influences some new ice cream flavors, especially those featuring olive oil and nuts, with a 10% increase in such products year-over-year

Statistic 55

Novelty and premium ice creams constitute about 35% of total sales in North America, indicating consumer preference for premium products

Statistic 56

The innovation pipeline for ice cream flavors includes over 200 new flavor ideas submitted annually by manufacturers, emphasizing rapid product development

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Key Highlights

The global ice cream market was valued at approximately $65 billion in 2022
The United States is the largest consumer of ice cream, with over 48 million gallons sold annually
Approximately 90% of Americans consume ice cream at least once a year
The average American consumes about 23 pounds of ice cream per year
The most popular ice cream flavor in the US is vanilla, accounting for around 29% of all sales
The global ice cream cone market size was valued at $7.2 billion in 2021
In 2023, 45% of ice cream purchases in the US are made in supermarkets, while 35% are bought in convenience stores
The organic ice cream segment has grown by over 12% annually over the past five years
Vegan ice cream sales increased by 25% in 2022, reflecting the rising plant-based food trend
The per capita ice cream consumption in India is approximately 1.3 liters, one of the lowest globally, but the market is rapidly expanding
The flavor innovation segment accounts for approximately 15% of new product launches in the ice cream industry
The top five ice cream brands in the US hold around 60% of the market share
The Mediterranean diet influences some new ice cream flavors, especially those featuring olive oil and nuts, with a 10% increase in such products year-over-year

From blockbuster sales reaching $65 billion worldwide to evolving consumer tastes and health-conscious innovations, the ice cream industry is hotter than ever, redefining sweetness in a competitive and rapidly growing global market.

Consumer Preferences and Behaviors

Approximately 90% of Americans consume ice cream at least once a year
The most popular ice cream flavor in the US is vanilla, accounting for around 29% of all sales
Millennials constitute around 40% of ice cream consumers in the US, driving innovation and flavor trends
Around 60% of consumers prefer to buy ice cream in soft serve form, especially in quick-service restaurants
The most popular toppings for ice cream in the US are sprinkles, chocolate syrup, and crushed cookies, with over 70% of consumers adding toppings regularly
Environmental concerns are influencing the industry, with 65% of consumers willing to pay more for eco-friendly packaging
Over 50% of ice cream consumers prefer buy-one-get-one-free promotions, especially in supermarket settings
The percentage of consumers seeking gluten-free options in ice cream increased by nearly 20% in the last five years, reflecting dietary trend shifts
The popularity of ethnic and international flavors in ice cream increased by 12% in 2023, including options like matcha, dulce de leche, and yuzu
The top reason consumers choose premium or artisanal ice cream is for quality and natural ingredients, at 65%
Over 80% of ice cream sales are made in single-serve sizes, highlighting convenience as a major purchasing factor
The average price of a pint of premium ice cream in the US is approximately $5.50, reflecting the value placed on quality and craft
Approximately 35% of consumers in urban areas prefer to buy ice cream from specialty or gourmet shops, compared to 20% in rural areas, indicating geographic differences in shopping preferences
Flavored ice creams combined account for more than 80% of total ice cream sales in many regions, with seasonal flavors gaining popularity
Approximately 25% of ice cream consumers in the US are under 18 years old, indicating strong interest among youth
70% of consumers prefer to purchase ice cream with real fruit ingredients, supporting the trend toward natural and wholesome options
The trend toward personalized ice cream allows customers to choose their own flavors and toppings, adopted by 30% of new ice creameries
The average profit margin for independent ice cream shops is approximately 12%, highlighting the importance of product quality and customer experience

Consumer Preferences and Behaviors Interpretation

With nearly 90% of Americans tasting ice cream annually and 65% willing to pay extra for eco-friendly packaging, the industry's sweet spot lies in blending artisanal quality and sustainability—proving that when it comes to ice cream, flavor and conscience are melting into one delightful scoop.

Health, Dietary Trends, and Sustainability

The gluten-free ice cream segment experienced a 9% growth in 2022, driven by dietary restrictions and health trends
The use of lactose-free ingredients in ice cream increased by 15% in 2022, driven by lactose intolerance awareness
The gluten-free ice cream segment grew by approximately 10% in 2022, reflecting increasing dietary restrictions
The use of sustainable and biodegradable packaging in the ice cream industry increased by 30% over the past three years, driven by consumer demand for eco-friendly products
The top health concern related to ice cream consumption is high sugar content, with 55% of consumers actively seeking reduced-sugar options

Health, Dietary Trends, and Sustainability Interpretation

As consumers increasingly prioritize health and sustainability, the ice cream industry is scooping into gluten-free and lactose-free options with a 9-15% growth, while also melting away plastic waste by embracing biodegradable packaging, all amid the 55% of ice cream lovers craving lower sugar treats.

Market Dynamics and Distribution Channels

In 2023, 45% of ice cream purchases in the US are made in supermarkets, while 35% are bought in convenience stores
The average shelf life of packaged ice cream products in groceries is approximately 9 months, influencing inventory and sales strategies
The fastest-growing distribution channel for ice cream in 2023 is online direct-to-consumer sales, increasing by 22%, reflecting digital shopping trends

Market Dynamics and Distribution Channels Interpretation

As frozen treats continue to melt expectations, supermarkets still scoop up nearly half the market, but the rising chill of online sales and the fleeting nine-month shelf life urge industry players to churn innovation and keep their cool in an ever-cooler retail landscape.

Market Size and Consumption Trends

The global ice cream market was valued at approximately $65 billion in 2022
The United States is the largest consumer of ice cream, with over 48 million gallons sold annually
The average American consumes about 23 pounds of ice cream per year
The global ice cream cone market size was valued at $7.2 billion in 2021
The organic ice cream segment has grown by over 12% annually over the past five years
Vegan ice cream sales increased by 25% in 2022, reflecting the rising plant-based food trend
The per capita ice cream consumption in India is approximately 1.3 liters, one of the lowest globally, but the market is rapidly expanding
The top five ice cream brands in the US hold around 60% of the market share
The number of artisanal and craft ice cream shops in the US increased by 18% in 2022, reflecting consumer demand for local and unique products
Seasonal sales account for approximately 60% of total ice cream sales in the US, peaking during summer months
The global soft serve ice cream market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.8% from 2023 to 2030
The largest segment of the ice cream industry by ingredient is dairy-based, accounting for around 83% of sales globally
The plant-based ice cream segment represented about 13% of the global market share in 2022 and is expected to grow rapidly
The retail value of ice cream products sold through vending machines is estimated to reach $1.2 billion by 2025, with a CAGR of 5%
Seasonal spikes in ice cream sales can be as high as 150% compared to off-season periods, especially in summer
The caffeine-infused ice cream segment is growing at a 7% annual rate, appealing to a niche market of energy-conscious consumers
The global organic ice cream market is projected to reach $4.3 billion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2022
Revenue from in-home ice cream consumption is expected to make up 70% of the total market in 2024, emphasizing the shift towards retail and direct-to-consumer sales
The world's largest ice cream cone sculpture, built in Italy, measures over 27 meters tall, symbolizing the industry’s cultural significance
The global market share for frozen yogurt in the overall frozen desserts segment was around 12% in 2022, and is expected to grow
The average household in the US bought 4.5 gallons of ice cream in 2022, highlighting steady consumer demand
The sales of ice cream novelties, such as bars and popsicles, account for approximately 40% of total ice cream revenue, showcasing preference for on-the-go treats
The global artisan ice cream market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2022-2028, due to rising consumer interest in premium products
The number of ice cream trucks operating in the US increased by around 10% in 2023, reflecting ongoing popularity of mobile vending
The retail sales of gelato are projected to reach $2.5 billion globally by 2025, driven by its premium positioning
The global market for dairy-free ice cream is expected to reach $2.8 billion by 2026, with a CAGR of 10.5%, driven by allergen concerns and dietary choices

Market Size and Consumption Trends Interpretation

While the $65 billion global ice cream industry continues to melt hearts—and markets—with over 48 million gallons sold annually in the U.S. alone, the rising trends in organic, vegan, and artisanal varieties alongside technological innovations like vending machines and trucks signal that whether enjoyed solo or in tandem with a cone sculpture as grand as Italy's, ice cream's ability to adapt ensures it remains a sweet staple—despite seasonal dips of up to 150%.

Product Segments and Innovation

The flavor innovation segment accounts for approximately 15% of new product launches in the ice cream industry
The Mediterranean diet influences some new ice cream flavors, especially those featuring olive oil and nuts, with a 10% increase in such products year-over-year
Novelty and premium ice creams constitute about 35% of total sales in North America, indicating consumer preference for premium products
The innovation pipeline for ice cream flavors includes over 200 new flavor ideas submitted annually by manufacturers, emphasizing rapid product development

Product Segments and Innovation Interpretation

Amidst a swirl of flavor innovations inspired by Mediterranean health trends and a surge in premium scoops, the ice cream industry’s rapid-fire pipeline of over 200 new ideas annually reveals that consumers crave both daring tastes and decadent experiences, making it clear that in this chilly confectionery court, novelty and quality are equally the cream of the crop.