Ice Cream Market Size to Reach USD 152.96 Billion by 2031 - Mordor Intelligence Report

Ice Cream Market Size and Growth Outlook

The global ice cream market size is projected to grow from USD 125.42 billion in 2026 to USD 152.96 billion by 2031, reflecting steady expansion during the forecast period. While standard ice cream remains the leading revenue contributor, premium, artisanal, and functional formulations are increasingly reshaping the Ice Cream Market size and competitive landscape.

Rapid flavor experimentation, plant-based product launches, and the rise of quick-commerce platforms are accelerating the ice cream market growth. In addition, clean-label positioning and sustainable ingredient sourcing are strengthening brand loyalty and supporting premium pricing strategies.

Key Trends Driving Ice Cream Market Growth

1. The Health & Transparency Pivot: Wellness Meets Clean Label

The ice cream landscape is being redefined by a shift toward "better-for-you" indulgence. Brands are aggressively reformulating portfolios with high-protein, low-sugar, and GLP-1-friendly options utilizing ingredients like cottage cheese and allulose to target metabolic health. This nutritional evolution is moving in tandem with the clean-label movement, as consumers (particularly Gen Z and Millennials) demand the removal of artificial additives. While replacing synthetic stabilizers with natural alternatives like beet juice or plant extracts increases R&D costs, it allows brands to secure consumer trust and command premium margins through verifiable transparency.

2. Strategic Differentiation: Premiumization and Flavor Exploration

The ice cream market growth is increasingly driven by a "bifurcated" retail environment where premium and artisanal products outpace value-tier staples. Consumers are now willing to pay 30% to 50% more for small-batch storytelling and high-quality ingredients, moving these specialty pints into mainstream retail. This premiumization is fueled by bold flavor innovation, ranging from social-media-friendly exotic profiles like matcha and ube to nostalgic, comfort-focused desserts like tiramisu. By leveraging limited-edition collaborations and cross-category experimentation, brands are driving trial rates and maintaining cultural relevance in a highly competitive shelf space.

Ice Cream Market Segmentation Overview

By Type

• Standard Ice Cream
• Novelties
• Soft Serve
• Specialty / Artisanal Ice Cream

By Category

• Dairy
• Non-Dairy (Plant-Based)

By Packaging Type

• Pints
• Tubs / Cups
• Sticks
• Others

By Distribution Channel

• On-Trade
• Off-Trade (Convenience Stores, Specialist Retailers, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Online Retail, Others)

By Geography

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle East and Africa

Ice Cream Market Regional Insights

North America maintains a strong demand supported by high per-capita consumption and an established retail infrastructure. Europe emphasizes sustainability, clean-label compliance, and premium dairy sourcing. Asia-Pacific is witnessing rapid growth driven by urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and increasing exposure to Western dessert culture.

Stay ahead of the curve with global and Japan-specific insights:

https://www.mordorintelligence.com/ja/industry-reports/ice-cream-market?utm_source=Industrytoday

Competitive Landscape of the Ice Cream Market

The Ice Cream Market features a mix of multinational food companies and emerging artisanal brands competing on innovation, health positioning, and premium storytelling.

Key Ice Cream Industry Participants Include:

• Nestlé S.A.
• General Mills, Inc.
• Blue Bell Creameries LP
• Wells Enterprises Inc.
• Lotte Corporation

Companies are investing in plant-based alternatives, protein-enriched recipes, and sustainable packaging to strengthen Ice Cream Market share globally.

Dominating Country: United States

The US ice cream market accounts for over 30% of the global Ice Cream Market revenue. High consumption frequency, strong retail distribution, parlor culture, and rapid product experimentation support market leadership. E-commerce channels and seasonal promotions further enhance innovation cycles, positioning the U.S. as a benchmark for global Ice Cream Industry trends.

Ice Cream Market Forecast and Strategic Outlook

The ice cream market forecast indicates continued steady growth through 2031, supported by health-focused innovation, plant-based expansion, and premium artisanal offerings. Clean-label reformulation and sustainable sourcing initiatives will remain key differentiators as consumer expectations evolve.

As indulgence increasingly intersects with nutrition and transparency, brands that balance flavor innovation, health functionality, and ethical production practices are expected to strengthen their Ice Cream Market share in the years ahead.

Explore related reports from Mordor Intelligence 

dairy-free ice cream market - https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/dairy-free-ice-cream-market?utm_source=Industrytoday 

Dairy Products Market -  https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/dairy-products-market?utm_source=Industrytoday 

Dairy Desserts Market - https://www.mordorintelligence.com/industry-reports/global-dairy-desserts-market?utm_source=Industrytoday 

About Mordor Intelligence: 

Mordor Intelligence is a trusted partner for businesses seeking actionable market insights. With 550+ domain experts and specialists across 150+ countries, we deliver comprehensive syndicated and custom research across industries such as aerospace, agriculture, chemicals, consumer goods, energy, healthcare, and many more, helping organizations make informed decisions and achieve strategic goals. 

For any inquiries or to access the full report, please contact: 

media@mordorintelligence.com 

https://www.mordorintelligence.com/