GITNUX REPORT 2024

Global Ice Cream Sales Statistics: Vanilla Reigns, Americans Lead Consumption

Inside the Scoop: Ice Cream Sales Soaring with Growing Markets, Popular Flavors, and Surprising Trends.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

Statistic 1

87% of Americans have ice cream in their freezer at any given time.

Statistic 2

Ice cream consumption in the United States averages about 23 pounds per person annually.

Statistic 3

Ice cream sales in the U.S. grew by 2.9% in 2020, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Statistic 4

The average American consumes about 23.2 quarts of ice cream annually.

Statistic 5

90% of U.S. households regularly indulge in ice cream.

Statistic 6

Ice cream sales in convenience stores total about $1.4 billion annually.

Statistic 7

Children aged 2-12 and adults over 45 are the primary consumers of ice cream in the United States.

Statistic 8

About 8% of all the milk produced in the U.S. is used for producing ice cream.

Statistic 9

Ice cream sales tend to peak in the summer months, with July being the highest sales month.

Statistic 10

The average American consumes ice cream at home about 28.5 times per year.

Statistic 11

Ice cream sales in the U.S. generate more than $10 billion in revenue annually.

Statistic 12

The average American eats ice cream about 28.5 times per year.

Statistic 13

32% of ice cream consumers prefer a cup or cone over other formats.

Statistic 14

Ice cream sales in the U.S. total around $11 billion annually.

Statistic 15

77% of Americans consume ice cream in the winter.

Statistic 16

4% of consumers in the U.S. have purchased ice cream for delivery.

Statistic 17

35% of consumers prefer to eat ice cream at home rather than a restaurant or dessert shop.

Statistic 18

Ice cream sales in QSRs (Quick Service Restaurants) account for over $6.2 billion annually.

Statistic 19

62% of Americans prefer to eat traditional premium ice cream.

Statistic 20

The average Canadian consumes about 5.6 liters of ice cream per year.

Statistic 21

Ice cream is mainly consumed during social events, with 63% of consumers eating it at social gatherings.

Statistic 22

92% of people in the U.S. have purchased ice cream from a grocery store within the last 6 months.

Statistic 23

Sales of single-serve ice cream cups have seen a 12% growth in recent years.

Statistic 24

42% of ice cream consumers in the U.S. believe that premium quality ice cream is worth the extra cost.

Statistic 25

About 67% of ice cream consumers in the U.S. consider the flavor as the most important factor when purchasing.

Statistic 26

Ice cream consumption tends to peak during hot weather, with sales increasing by 25% in the summer months.

Statistic 27

Frozen yogurt is gaining popularity as a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, with a growth rate of 2.5% annually.

Statistic 28

Over 87% of Americans have ice cream in their freezer at any given time.

Statistic 29

Online sales of ice cream and frozen desserts have surged by 25% in the past year.

Statistic 30

The average American consumes about 23 pounds of ice cream per year, with vanilla being the most popular flavor.

Statistic 31

78% of consumers in the U.S. prefer to buy ice cream in pints or liters rather than single-servings.

Statistic 32

Ice cream sales in convenience stores account for over $1.4 billion annually in the U.S.

Statistic 33

About 75% of consumers in the U.S. prefer traditional ice cream flavors over more exotic options.

Statistic 34

The global dairy-free ice cream market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.8% from 2021 to 2026.

Statistic 35

The global market for non-dairy ice cream is projected to surpass $1 billion by 2026.

Statistic 36

The market for dairy-free ice cream is growing rapidly, with a projected CAGR of 10.3% from 2021 to 2026.

Statistic 37

The market for plant-based ice cream is expected to grow by 13.8% annually from 2021 to 2026.

Statistic 38

The global ice cream market is projected to reach $97.3 billion by 2023.

Statistic 39

1.53 billion gallons of ice cream and related frozen desserts were produced in the U.S. in 2019.

Statistic 40

The global market for artisanal ice cream is expected to grow by $16.4 billion between 2021 and 2025.

Statistic 41

The global ice cream market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2021 to 2028.

Statistic 42

The global ice cream market is anticipated to reach $91.9 billion by 2025.

Statistic 43

Gelato sales have been increasing, with a 13.2% growth in sales in recent years.

Statistic 44

The global market for low-fat ice cream is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2021 to 2026.

Statistic 45

The global ice cream market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2021 to 2028.

Statistic 46

The global market for organic ice cream is forecast to reach $1.2 billion by 2026.

Statistic 47

More than 1.5 billion gallons of ice cream and related frozen desserts are produced in the U.S. each year.

Statistic 48

The global market for artisanal ice cream is projected to reach $30 billion by 2026.

Statistic 49

The global market for lactose-free ice cream is projected to reach $1.2 billion by 2025.

Statistic 50

Vanilla is the most popular ice cream flavor, accounting for 26% of all sales.

Statistic 51

In 2020, the best-selling ice cream flavor in the U.S. was cookies 'n cream.

Statistic 52

Chocolate is the second most popular ice cream flavor, accounting for 14% of all sales.

Statistic 53

Mint chocolate chip is the third most popular ice cream flavor, accounting for 9% of all sales.

Statistic 54

Soft-serve ice cream accounts for over 60% of ice cream servings in quick-serve restaurants.

Statistic 55

The ice cream market in Europe is primarily driven by demand for indulgent, premium ice cream flavors.

Statistic 56

The United States is the largest consumer of ice cream globally, followed by Australia and Norway.

Statistic 57

The ice cream market in Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2021 to 2028.

Statistic 58

The majority of ice cream consumers in Europe are between the ages of 18-35.

Statistic 59

The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market for ice cream, with a CAGR of 7.2% from 2021 to 2026.

Statistic 60

Ice cream consumption in Australia is among the highest in the world, with an average of 18 liters per person per year.

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Summary

  • The global ice cream market is projected to reach $97.3 billion by 2023.
  • 87% of Americans have ice cream in their freezer at any given time.
  • Vanilla is the most popular ice cream flavor, accounting for 26% of all sales.
  • The United States is the largest consumer of ice cream globally, followed by Australia and Norway.
  • Ice cream consumption in the United States averages about 23 pounds per person annually.
  • The global dairy-free ice cream market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.8% from 2021 to 2026.
  • Ice cream sales in the U.S. grew by 2.9% in 2020, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The average American consumes about 23.2 quarts of ice cream annually.
  • 90% of U.S. households regularly indulge in ice cream.
  • Ice cream sales in convenience stores total about $1.4 billion annually.
  • 1.53 billion gallons of ice cream and related frozen desserts were produced in the U.S. in 2019.
  • Children aged 2-12 and adults over 45 are the primary consumers of ice cream in the United States.
  • The global market for artisanal ice cream is expected to grow by $16.4 billion between 2021 and 2025.
  • About 8% of all the milk produced in the U.S. is used for producing ice cream.
  • The global market for non-dairy ice cream is projected to surpass $1 billion by 2026.

Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, because the sweet world of ice cream is churning up some seriously cool stats that will have dessert enthusiasts screaming for more! With the global ice cream market projected to reach a mouthwatering $97.3 billion by 2023 and 87% of Americans stashing a frozen treat in their freezers at any given moment, its no wonder that vanilla reigns supreme, accounting for a delicious 26% of all sales. From the land of the freezers, where the United States leads the ice cream charge, to the frosty forecast of dairy-free delights, these cold facts will leave you craving scoop after scoop of frozen indulgence. So, grab a cone and join the frenzy as we dive deep into the scoop on all things ice cream.

Consumer behavior in the United States

  • 87% of Americans have ice cream in their freezer at any given time.
  • Ice cream consumption in the United States averages about 23 pounds per person annually.
  • Ice cream sales in the U.S. grew by 2.9% in 2020, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • The average American consumes about 23.2 quarts of ice cream annually.
  • 90% of U.S. households regularly indulge in ice cream.
  • Ice cream sales in convenience stores total about $1.4 billion annually.
  • Children aged 2-12 and adults over 45 are the primary consumers of ice cream in the United States.
  • About 8% of all the milk produced in the U.S. is used for producing ice cream.
  • Ice cream sales tend to peak in the summer months, with July being the highest sales month.
  • The average American consumes ice cream at home about 28.5 times per year.
  • Ice cream sales in the U.S. generate more than $10 billion in revenue annually.
  • The average American eats ice cream about 28.5 times per year.
  • 32% of ice cream consumers prefer a cup or cone over other formats.
  • Ice cream sales in the U.S. total around $11 billion annually.
  • 77% of Americans consume ice cream in the winter.
  • 4% of consumers in the U.S. have purchased ice cream for delivery.
  • 35% of consumers prefer to eat ice cream at home rather than a restaurant or dessert shop.
  • Ice cream sales in QSRs (Quick Service Restaurants) account for over $6.2 billion annually.
  • 62% of Americans prefer to eat traditional premium ice cream.
  • The average Canadian consumes about 5.6 liters of ice cream per year.
  • Ice cream is mainly consumed during social events, with 63% of consumers eating it at social gatherings.
  • 92% of people in the U.S. have purchased ice cream from a grocery store within the last 6 months.
  • Sales of single-serve ice cream cups have seen a 12% growth in recent years.
  • 42% of ice cream consumers in the U.S. believe that premium quality ice cream is worth the extra cost.
  • About 67% of ice cream consumers in the U.S. consider the flavor as the most important factor when purchasing.
  • Ice cream consumption tends to peak during hot weather, with sales increasing by 25% in the summer months.
  • Frozen yogurt is gaining popularity as a healthier alternative to traditional ice cream, with a growth rate of 2.5% annually.
  • Over 87% of Americans have ice cream in their freezer at any given time.
  • Online sales of ice cream and frozen desserts have surged by 25% in the past year.
  • The average American consumes about 23 pounds of ice cream per year, with vanilla being the most popular flavor.
  • 78% of consumers in the U.S. prefer to buy ice cream in pints or liters rather than single-servings.
  • Ice cream sales in convenience stores account for over $1.4 billion annually in the U.S.
  • About 75% of consumers in the U.S. prefer traditional ice cream flavors over more exotic options.

Interpretation

Ice cream, the delicious frozen treat that unites us all, seems to be a constant presence in American households, with freezers across the nation proudly harboring its creamy delights. Despite the challenges of a pandemic-ridden year, ice cream sales managed to scoop up a cool 2.9% growth, proving that even in the face of adversity, our love for this sweet indulgence remains unwavering. From children gobbling up cones to adults savoring pints, ice cream's popularity knows no bounds. With flavor preferences as diverse as our nation itself, it’s clear that when it comes to this beloved dessert, Americans are anything but lukewarm. So, whether you savor a classic scoop of vanilla or opt for a trendy frozen yogurt, one thing's for sure - ice cream isn't just a dessert; it's a way of life.

Dairy vs non-dairy ice cream market trends

  • The global dairy-free ice cream market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14.8% from 2021 to 2026.
  • The global market for non-dairy ice cream is projected to surpass $1 billion by 2026.
  • The market for dairy-free ice cream is growing rapidly, with a projected CAGR of 10.3% from 2021 to 2026.
  • The market for plant-based ice cream is expected to grow by 13.8% annually from 2021 to 2026.

Interpretation

It seems the frozen dessert landscape is undergoing a delightful transformation, with dairy-free and plant-based ice cream becoming an increasingly popular choice among consumers. As traditional ice cream takes a back seat, these non-dairy alternatives are steering the market towards a sweeter, more inclusive future. With growth rates that would make even the most dedicated chocoholic's head spin, it's clear that the era of plant-powered scoops and soy-based swirls is well and truly upon us. Get ready for a scoop of change with a side of sustainability – it's a frozen revolution worth sinking your spoon into.

Global ice cream market projections

  • The global ice cream market is projected to reach $97.3 billion by 2023.
  • 1.53 billion gallons of ice cream and related frozen desserts were produced in the U.S. in 2019.
  • The global market for artisanal ice cream is expected to grow by $16.4 billion between 2021 and 2025.
  • The global ice cream market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.8% from 2021 to 2028.
  • The global ice cream market is anticipated to reach $91.9 billion by 2025.
  • Gelato sales have been increasing, with a 13.2% growth in sales in recent years.
  • The global market for low-fat ice cream is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2021 to 2026.
  • The global ice cream market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2021 to 2028.
  • The global market for organic ice cream is forecast to reach $1.2 billion by 2026.
  • More than 1.5 billion gallons of ice cream and related frozen desserts are produced in the U.S. each year.
  • The global market for artisanal ice cream is projected to reach $30 billion by 2026.
  • The global market for lactose-free ice cream is projected to reach $1.2 billion by 2025.

Interpretation

In a world where scoops of delight are as sought after as gold, it's no surprise that the ice cream market is sizzling with anticipation. With projections reaching billions, it seems that the love for frozen treats knows no bounds. From the creamy wonders of gelato to the guilt-free indulgence of low-fat and organic options, there's a flavor for every craving and a market for every scoop. So whether you're a traditionalist looking for a classic cone or an avant-garde aficionado seeking out artisanal delights, it's clear that the world of ice cream is anything but vanilla.

Market segmentation by flavors and types

  • Vanilla is the most popular ice cream flavor, accounting for 26% of all sales.
  • In 2020, the best-selling ice cream flavor in the U.S. was cookies 'n cream.
  • Chocolate is the second most popular ice cream flavor, accounting for 14% of all sales.
  • Mint chocolate chip is the third most popular ice cream flavor, accounting for 9% of all sales.
  • Soft-serve ice cream accounts for over 60% of ice cream servings in quick-serve restaurants.
  • The ice cream market in Europe is primarily driven by demand for indulgent, premium ice cream flavors.

Interpretation

In a world where vanilla dominates the overall ice cream sales, it seems the unexpected underdog, cookies 'n cream, managed to swipe the crown for the best-selling flavor in the U.S. in 2020, leaving the traditional favorites like chocolate and mint chocolate chip trailing behind. Soft-serve ice cream rules the quick-serve restaurant realm with an iron fist, claiming over 60% of all ice cream servings. Meanwhile, across the pond in Europe, it appears that the demand for indulgent, premium ice cream flavors is driving the market, proving that when it comes to frozen treats, it's a cold world out there, but there's always room for a scoop of innovation.

Regional ice cream market analysis

  • The United States is the largest consumer of ice cream globally, followed by Australia and Norway.
  • The ice cream market in Asia-Pacific is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.6% from 2021 to 2028.
  • The majority of ice cream consumers in Europe are between the ages of 18-35.
  • The Asia-Pacific region is the fastest-growing market for ice cream, with a CAGR of 7.2% from 2021 to 2026.
  • Ice cream consumption in Australia is among the highest in the world, with an average of 18 liters per person per year.

Interpretation

In a world where statistics often leave us cold, the heated battle for ice cream supremacy continues to melt hearts and wallets across the globe. With the United States chilling at the top of the cone as the biggest consumer, Australia and Norway are giving a brain freeze of competition. In Europe, it seems the younger generation is not just into avocado toast, as the sweet tooth of 18-35-year-olds dominates the ice cream scene. Meanwhile, the sizzling growth of the Asia-Pacific market is setting the stage for a frozen dessert revolution, with flavors and trends as diverse as the region itself. As we all scream for ice cream, one thing is clear - whether you prefer gelato or soft serve, the cold truth is that ice cream knows no borders and continues to scoop up global attention.

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