Market Trends of Europe Ice Cream Industry
This section covers the major market trends shaping the Europe Ice Cream Market according to our research experts:
Rising Demand for Healthy Ice Creams
Owing to a rise in the lifestyle diseases like obesity, and diabetes, a growing preference for veganism, and increasing health consciousness among consumers, ice creams without dairy ingredients are gaining momentum in the European market. Owing to the demand for healthy/free-from ice cream, companies have been launching new products and expanding into new markets, for example, in February 2021, Sweden-based company, LUB Foods subsidiary brand Nick's secured USD 30 Million in funding to execute its plans for expansion of its sugar-free ice cream products in international markets, mainly in the United States and Germany, along with the construction of a production facility located in Europe.
For consumers looking for a variety or following a special diet, there are more non-dairy ice creams and frozen treats available than ever before, with small brands and significant players offering low-calorie, vegan options and non-dairy versions of their classic flavors. For instance, in 2021, Unilever's Ben & Jerry's launched "Save Our Swirled Now" non-dairy ice cream as an addition to its plant-based ice cream portfolio. This new variant is a combination of coconut ice cream with chunks of chocolate and a cookie swirl. Non-vegan health-conscious individuals demand low-calorie and natural ingredients in ice creams.
Increased Consumption of Artisanal Ice Cream in Europe
Increased consumption of artisanal ice cream is one of the driving factors for the European frozen desserts market. The consumer demand for artisanal ice cream is leading to the growth of the overall European ice cream market. Gelato forms a major segment of artisanal ice creams. Furthermore, Italian gelato is among the most popular ice cream variants extensively sold in the retail market. This is the reason why a majority of companies like Unilever, Nestle SA, and General Mills are focusing on extending their range of gelato ice creams, catering to the demand for artisanal ice creams. Some popular Italian ice cream flavors include Cioccolato, Pistacchio, Stracciatella, Mandorla, and Limone. For instance, Unilever-owned gelato brand Talenti offers a new line by the name "Talenti Gelato Layers", offering vanilla fudge cookies, salted caramel truffle, chocolate cherry cheesecakes, black raspberry vanilla parfait, peanut butter vanilla fudge, mint fudge cookie, and dark chocolate cherry flavors.
