Market Overview
| Study Period | 2017 - 2030 |
| Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
| Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
| Market Size (2025) | USD 19.51 Billion |
| Market Size (2030) | USD 22.41 Billion |
| Growth Rate (2025 - 2030) | 2.81% CAGR |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
Major Players*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0. |
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United States Ice Cream Market Analysis
The United States Ice Cream Market size is estimated at 19.51 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 22.41 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 2.81% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The ice cream industry in the United States continues to evolve with changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Consumer behavior data reveals that approximately 87% of the US population maintains ice cream in their freezers at any given time, with Sunday being the most popular day for purchases. The frequency of ice cream consumption remains robust, as 74% of Americans consume ice cream at least once weekly, predominantly at home. This shift in consumption patterns has prompted manufacturers to focus on developing premium products and innovative flavors that cater to both traditional preferences and emerging taste profiles, with chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry maintaining their positions as the most popular flavors.
The digital transformation of ice cream retail has revolutionized the industry's distribution landscape. With 45% of the US population now browsing online websites through mobile devices, retailers and manufacturers have significantly expanded their digital presence. The integration of technology has enabled more sophisticated inventory management, personalized marketing campaigns, and enhanced customer engagement strategies. Over 68 million US households now utilize various online shopping methods, including delivery, pickup, and shipping-to-home options, demonstrating the growing importance of omnichannel distribution strategies.
The retail infrastructure for ice cream distribution continues to expand and modernize across the United States. Currently, there are 63,419 supermarkets operating nationwide, forming a robust foundation for ice cream distribution. Major retailers have invested heavily in cold chain infrastructure, implementing advanced freezer technologies and temperature monitoring systems to maintain product quality. Supermarkets and hypermarkets have emerged as the dominant distribution channel, accounting for 66.65% of ice cream sales through off-trade channels in 2022, reflecting consumers' preference for one-stop shopping experiences.
Product innovation and premiumization have become key differentiators in the ice cream market, with manufacturers focusing on clean label ingredients, functional benefits, and sustainable packaging solutions. The industry has witnessed a surge in premium ice cream launches featuring unique flavor combinations, artisanal production methods, and health-conscious formulations. Major brands are increasingly incorporating natural ingredients, reducing artificial additives, and introducing portion-controlled formats to meet evolving consumer demands. This trend is particularly evident in the growth of premium pint offerings and individually wrapped novelties that cater to both indulgence and portion control preferences.
United States Ice Cream Market Trends
The increasing influence of innovative flavors is impacting the consumption of ice cream in the United States
- The increasing preference of consumers for premium ice creams and intercontinental flavors has led to a sharp increase in the per capita consumption of ice cream in the United States during the last decades. In 2022, per capita consumption of ice cream increased by 1.3% compared to the previous year, 2021. Consumers purchase ice cream in large cartons as well as individually wrapped frozen novelties that include ice-cream sandwiches, ice cream cones, chocolate-dipped bars, Klondike bars, and popsicles. Approximately 87% of the US population has ice cream in their freezers at any time, while Sunday is the most common day for them to purchase ice cream.
- Ice creams with low-calorie (150 calories per serving) or no-sugar options compared to regular ice creams have gained popularity among health-conscious consumers. Due to this, regular ice cream consumption experienced a dip of 9% up to 2021, compared to the historical years, while low-fat ice cream consumption increased by 20%. As of 2021, almost 74% of the US population eats ice cream at least once a week, which they also like to eat at home, while 84% of the US population purchased ice cream at grocery stores and ate it at home.
- Popular flavors of ice cream in the United States include vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, butter pecan, and mint chocolate chip. Despite this, chocolate remains the favorite among consumers. In 2021, 17% of US consumers preferred the chocolate flavor, followed by vanilla with 15%, and strawberry and mint chocolate chip with 8% each. Almost half of the consumers bought ice cream in half-gallon containers, and about 23% preferred to buy pints.
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OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT
- Growth in milk volume per cow is among the factors largely boosting milk production in the country
Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel
Off-Trade Segment in US Ice Cream Market
The off-trade ice cream distribution channel dominates the United States ice cream market, accounting for approximately 94% of the total market value in 2024. This channel's prominence is primarily driven by the extensive network of supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online retail platforms across the country. The segment's growth is supported by the increasing consumer preference for at-home consumption, with about 84% of US consumers purchasing retail ice cream from grocery stores for home consumption. The expansion of cold chain infrastructure, improved storage facilities, and the rising adoption of digital payment systems have further strengthened the off-trade channel's position. Additionally, the segment is experiencing robust growth with a projected increase of nearly 3% during 2024-2029, driven by the rapid expansion of e-commerce platforms, enhanced last-mile delivery capabilities, and the growing trend of online grocery shopping.
On-Trade Segment in US Ice Cream Market
The on-trade segment represents a vital component of the US ice cream market segmentation, encompassing sales through restaurants, cafes, ice cream parlors, and food service outlets. This channel has evolved significantly with the integration of digital ordering systems, contactless payments, and enhanced delivery services to meet changing consumer preferences. The segment's growth is supported by the expanding number of Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) franchise locations, which increased to over 192,000 outlets in recent years. The channel has also benefited from the growing popularity of premium commercial ice cream offerings and unique flavor experiences that consumers seek when dining out. Furthermore, the segment has adapted to modern consumer demands by implementing various technology-based solutions, including digital menus and innovative service models, while also capitalizing on the increasing trend of food delivery services.
United States Ice Cream Industry Overview
Top Companies in United States Ice Cream Market
The ice cream market leaders are demonstrating a strong commitment to product innovation through the continuous launch of new flavors, formats, and healthier variants to meet evolving consumer preferences. Companies are focusing on expanding their manufacturing capabilities through facility upgrades and strategic acquisitions to enhance production capacity and geographical reach. Operational agility is being achieved through investments in advanced ice cream manufacturing technologies, improved cold chain infrastructure, and digitalization of supply chains. Strategic partnerships with retailers, food service operators, and e-commerce platforms are being leveraged to strengthen distribution networks and improve market access. The emphasis on sustainability initiatives, clean label certifications, and premium positioning is helping companies differentiate their offerings in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Consolidated Market Led By Global Players
The US ice cream market structure is characterized by the strong presence of multinational conglomerates like Unilever ice cream brands and Froneri, who leverage their extensive distribution networks, brand portfolios, and R&D capabilities to maintain market leadership. These global players compete with well-established regional specialists like Blue Bell Creameries and Wells Enterprises, who have built strong local brand equity through their focus on quality and tradition. The market demonstrates moderate consolidation with the top five players accounting for a significant ice cream market share, while numerous regional and artisanal ice cream manufacturers serve niche segments.
The industry has witnessed notable merger and acquisition activity aimed at consolidating market position and expanding manufacturing capabilities. Major deals include Froneri's acquisition of Nestlé's US ice cream business and Wells Enterprises' purchase of manufacturing facilities to enhance production capacity. Private equity firms are showing increased interest in the sector, particularly in premium and better-for-you ice cream brands, driving further consolidation. Regional players are pursuing strategic partnerships and licensing agreements to compete more effectively with larger corporations while maintaining their distinct market positioning.
Innovation and Distribution Key to Growth
Success in the US ice cream industry increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate across product formulations, packaging formats, and distribution channels. Manufacturers need to balance premium positioning with value offerings while expanding their better-for-you portfolios to capture health-conscious consumers. Building strong relationships with retailers and food service operators remains crucial, as does the development of direct-to-consumer capabilities through e-commerce platforms. Companies must also invest in sustainable practices and transparent sourcing to meet growing consumer expectations for environmental responsibility.
For emerging players looking to gain market share, focusing on distinctive flavor profiles, clean label ingredients, and unique value propositions is essential. Success requires developing efficient cold chain logistics, securing shelf space in key retail channels, and building brand awareness through digital marketing. The ability to quickly respond to changing consumer preferences while maintaining product quality and food safety standards is critical. Regulatory compliance, particularly regarding labeling requirements and food safety standards, continues to influence market dynamics, while the threat of substitution from frozen yogurt and other frozen desserts necessitates continuous product innovation and clear differentiation strategies.
United States Ice Cream Market Leaders
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Blue Bell Creameries LP
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Froneri International Limited
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Tilamook CCA
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Unilever PLC
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Wells Enterprises Inc.
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
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United States Ice Cream Market News
- October 2022: Unilever partnered with ASAP for the delivery of its ice cream products. As per the partnership, ASAP will also deliver ice cream and treats from Unilever's virtual storefront, The Ice Cream Shop.
- October 2022: Kemps replaced Dean Goods throughout Iowa as Dairy Farmers of America completed the USD 433 million acquisition of Dean Foods properties. The business took over the Le Mars milk factory, which can process numerous Kemps products, from cottage cheese to ice cream.
- October 2022: Blue Ribbon's Street range launched three new two-liter tubs, each featuring two flavors. The range includes chocolate affair, caramel hokey pokey, and velvety caramel.
Free With This Report
We provide a comprehensive and exhaustive set of data pointers for global, regional, and country-level metrics that illustrate the fundamentals of the dairy industry. With the help of 45+ free charts, clients can access in-depth market analysis based on per capita consumption numbers and production data of raw materials for dairy, through granular-level segmental information supported by a repository of market data, trends, and expert analysis. Data and analysis on dairy, categories of dairy products, product types, etc., are available in the form of comprehensive reports as well as excel based data worksheets.
List of Tables & Figures
- Figure 1:
- PER CAPITA CONSUMPTION OF ICE CREAM, KG, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 2:
- PRODUCTION OF MILK, METRIC TONNES, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2021
- Figure 3:
- VOLUME OF ICE CREAM, METRIC TONNES, BY UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 4:
- VALUE OF ICE CREAM, USD, BY UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 5:
- VOLUME OF ICE CREAM MARKET BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL, METRIC TONNES, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 6:
- VALUE OF ICE CREAM MARKET BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL, USD, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 7:
- VOLUME SHARE OF ICE CREAM MARKET, BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL , %, UNITED STATES, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2029
- Figure 8:
- VALUE SHARE OF ICE CREAM MARKET, BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNEL , %, UNITED STATES, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2029
- Figure 9:
- VOLUME OF ICE CREAM MARKET BY SUB DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS, METRIC TONNES, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 10:
- VALUE OF ICE CREAM MARKET BY SUB DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS, USD, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 11:
- VOLUME SHARE OF ICE CREAM MARKET, BY SUB DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS , %, UNITED STATES, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2029
- Figure 12:
- VALUE SHARE OF ICE CREAM MARKET, BY SUB DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS , %, UNITED STATES, 2017 VS 2023 VS 2029
- Figure 13:
- VOLUME OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA CONVENIENCE STORES, METRIC TONNES, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 14:
- VALUE OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA CONVENIENCE STORES, USD, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 15:
- VOLUME OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA ONLINE RETAIL, METRIC TONNES, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 16:
- VALUE OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA ONLINE RETAIL, USD, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 17:
- VOLUME OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA SPECIALIST RETAILERS, METRIC TONNES, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 18:
- VALUE OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA SPECIALIST RETAILERS, USD, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 19:
- VOLUME OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA SUPERMARKETS AND HYPERMARKETS, METRIC TONNES, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 20:
- VALUE OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA SUPERMARKETS AND HYPERMARKETS, USD, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 21:
- VOLUME OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA OTHERS (WAREHOUSE CLUBS, GAS STATIONS, ETC.), METRIC TONNES, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 22:
- VALUE OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA OTHERS (WAREHOUSE CLUBS, GAS STATIONS, ETC.), USD, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 23:
- VOLUME OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA ON-TRADE, METRIC TONNES, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 24:
- VALUE OF ICE CREAM MARKET SOLD VIA ON-TRADE, USD, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 25:
- MOST ACTIVE COMPANIES BY NUMBER OF STRATEGIC MOVES, COUNT, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 26:
- MOST ADOPTED STRATEGIES, COUNT, UNITED STATES, 2017 - 2029
- Figure 27:
- VALUE SHARE OF MAJOR PLAYERS, %, UNITED STATES
United States Ice Cream Industry Segmentation
Off-Trade, On-Trade are covered as segments by Distribution Channel.| Distribution Channel | Off-Trade | Convenience Stores |
| Online Retail | ||
| Specialist Retailers | ||
| Supermarkets and Hypermarkets | ||
| Others (Warehouse clubs, gas stations, etc.) | ||
| On-Trade |
Distribution Channel
| Off-Trade | Convenience Stores |
| Online Retail | |
| Specialist Retailers | |
| Supermarkets and Hypermarkets | |
| Others (Warehouse clubs, gas stations, etc.) | |
| On-Trade |
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Market Definition
- Butter - Butter is a yellow-to-white solid emulsion of fat globules, water, and inorganic salts produced by churning the cream from cows’ milk
- Dairy - Dairy product include milk and any of the foods made from milk, including butter, cheese, ice cream, yogurt, and condensed and dried milk.
- Frozen Desserts - Frozen dairy dessert means and includes products containing milk or cream and other ingredients which are frozen or semi-frozen prior to consumption, such as ice milk or sherbet, including frozen dairy desserts for special dietary purposes, and sorbet
- Sour Milk Drinks - Sour milk is thick, curdled milk, with a sour taste, obtained from the fermentation of milk. Sour milk drinks such as kefir, laban, buttermilk have been considered in the study
| Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|
| Cultured Butter | Cultured butter is prepared by having the raw butter go through chemical processing and has been added with certain emulsifiers and foreign ingredients. |
| Uncultured Butter | This type of butter is one which has not been processed in any way |
| Natural Cheese | The type of cheese in its most natural form. It is made from natural and simple products and ingredients, including fresh and natural salts, natural colors, enzymes, and high-quality milk. |
| Processed Cheese | Processed cheese undergoes the same processes as natural cheese; however, it requires more steps and many different forms of ingredients. Making processed cheese involves melting natural cheese, emulsifying it, and adding preservatives and other artificial ingredients or colorings. |
| Single Cream | Single cream contains around 18% fat. It’s a single layer of cream that appears over boiled milk. |
| Double Cream | Double cream contains 48% fat, more than double the amount of fat of single cream. It’s heavier and thicker than single cream |
| Whipping Cream | This has a much higher fat percentage than single cream (36%). Used to top cakes, pies, and puddings and as a thickener for sauces, soups, and fillings. |
| Frozen Desserts | Desserts that are meant to be eaten in frozen condition. E.g., sherbets, sorbets, frozen yogurts |
| UHT Milk (Ultra-high temperature milk) | Milk heated at a very high temperature. Ultra-high-temperature processing (UHT) of milk involves heating for 1–8 sec at 135–154°C. which kills the spore-forming pathogenic microorganism, resulting in a product with a shelf-life of several months. |
| Non-dairy butter/Plant-based butter | Butter made from plant-derived oil such as coconut, palm, etc. |
| Non-dairy Yogurt | Yogurt made from typically made from nuts, like almonds, cashews, coconuts, and even other foods like soybeans, plantains, oats, and peas |
| On-trade | It refers to restaurants, QSRs, and bars. |
| Off-trade | It refers to supermarkets, hypermarkets, on-line channels, etc. |
| Neufchatel cheese | One of the oldest kinds of cheese in France. It is a soft, slightly crumbly, mold-ripened, bloomy-rind cheese made in the Neufchâtel-en-Bray region of Normandy. |
| Flexitarian | It refers to a consumer preferring a semi-vegetarian diet, that is centered on plant foods with limited or occasional inclusion of meat. |
| Lactose Intolerance | Lactose intolerance is a reaction in digestive system to lactose, the sugar in milk. It causes uncomfortable symptoms in response to the consumption of dairy products. |
| Cream Cheese | Cream cheese is a soft and creamy fresh cheese with a tangy taste made from milk and cream. |
| Sorbets | Sorbet is a frozen dessert made using ice combined with fruit juice, fruit purée, or other ingredients, such as wine, liqueur, or honey. |
| Sherbet | Sherbet is a sweetened frozen dessert made with fruit and some sort of dairy product such as milk or cream. |
| Shelf stable | Foods that can be safely stored at room temperature, or "on the shelf," for at least one year and do not have to be cooked or refrigerated to eat safely. |
| DSD | Direct Store Delivery is the process in supply chain management wherein the product is delivered from manufacturing plant directly to the retailer. |
| OU Kosher | Orthodox Union Kosher is a kosher certification agency based in New York City. |
| Gelato | Gelato is a frozen creamy dessert made with milk, heavy cream and sugar. |
| Grass-fed Cows | Grass-fed cows are allowed to graze in pastures, where they eat a variety of grasses and clover. |
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Research Methodology
Mordor Intelligence follows a four-step methodology in all our reports.
- Step-1: Identify Key Variables: In order to build a robust forecasting methodology, the variables and factors identified in Step 1 are tested against available historical market numbers. Through an iterative process, the variables required for market forecast are set, and the model is built on the basis of these variables.
- Step-2: Build a Market Model: Market-size estimations for the forecast years are in nominal terms. Inflation is not a part of the pricing, and the average selling price (ASP) is kept constant throughout the forecast period for each country.
- Step-3: Validate and Finalize: In this important step, all market numbers, variables, and analyst calls are validated through an extensive network of primary research experts from the market studied. The respondents are selected across levels and functions to generate a holistic picture of the market studied.
- Step-4: Research Outputs: Syndicated Reports, Custom Consulting Assignments, Databases & Subscription Platforms
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