Ice Cream Parlor Market - By Type (Independent, Branded/Franchise), By Product (Traditional Ice Cream, Artisanal Ice Cream), By Service Type (Dine-in, Takeaway, Combined), Forecast 2024 - 2032

Ice Cream Parlor Market Size

The ice cream parlor market size was valued at USD 13.8 billion in 2023 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2024 and 2032. Modern consumers are increasingly seeking diverse and innovative ice cream flavors and offerings. The demand for unique and exotic flavors, as well as custom creations, drives ice cream parlors to continuously experiment and expand their menus. Trends such as artisanal ice cream, gourmet flavors, and fusion desserts contribute to this dynamic, attracting consumers who are eager to explore new taste experiences.
 

The demand for ice cream typically increases during warm weather months and specific holidays. Seasonal flavors and themed products, such as pumpkin spice in the fall or peppermint during the winter holidays, attract customers looking for seasonal treats. Ice cream parlors that align their offerings with seasonal trends and holidays can capitalize on these peaks in consumer interest. The level of disposable income and overall economic conditions play a significant role in consumer spending on indulgent treats like ice cream. In times of economic growth, higher disposable income typically leads to increased spending on premium and specialty ice cream products. Conversely, economic downturns can influence consumer spending habits, potentially shifting demand towards more affordable options.
 

The demand for ice cream is highly seasonal, with peak sales typically occurring during warmer months. In colder climates or during winter, sales can significantly drop, leading to inconsistent revenue streams. Ice cream parlors must find ways to mitigate these seasonal fluctuations, such as diversifying their product offerings or implementing strategies to boost sales during off-peak seasons. Fluctuations in the prices of key ingredients, such as dairy, sugar, and flavorings, can affect profitability. Rising costs due to supply chain disruptions, agricultural conditions, or inflation can squeeze margins and make it challenging for parlors to maintain competitive pricing while preserving quality.
 

Ice Cream Parlor Market Trends

With a growing focus on health and wellness, there is an increasing demand for low-calorie, low-sugar, and reduced-fat ice cream options. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and are looking for indulgent treats that align with their dietary goals. Ice cream parlors are responding by offering products with alternative sweeteners, lower fat content, and nutritional enhancements. Customization has become a significant trend, with consumers enjoying the ability to create their own ice cream combinations. Ice cream parlors are increasingly offering build-your-own sundae bars, where customers can select from a wide range of toppings, sauces, and mix-ins to personalize their desserts.
 

Ice Cream Parlor Market Analysis

Based on type, the market is divided into independent and branded/franchise. In 2023, branded/franchise held the dominant market of USD 9.1 billion and is expected to reach USD 14.2 billion by 2032. Branded and franchise ice cream parlors benefit from strong brand recognition and established reputations. Consumers are drawn to familiar brands known for their quality and consistency. The reliability of a well-known brand can be a significant driver of demand, as customers seek the assurance of a consistent product experience. Branded and franchise parlors typically have access to substantial marketing resources and campaigns that promote their products on a larger scale. National or regional advertising, promotions, and social media campaigns help attract a broad customer base and generate increased foot traffic to franchise locations.

Based on product, the ice cream parlor market is categorized into traditional ice cream and artisanal ice cream. In 2023, traditional ice cream held the dominant market share of 82% and is anticipated to grow through the years. Traditional ice cream, often produced by well-known brands, benefits from strong consumer recognition and trust. Established brands have a loyal customer base who value consistency and reliability in flavor and quality, which drives demand for their traditional offerings. Traditional ice cream is widely available in grocery stores, convenience stores, and various foodservice establishments. Its broad distribution makes it easily accessible to consumers, driving higher volume sales.
 

North America held an ice cream parlor market of around USD 3.7 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach USD 5.7 billion by 2032. With increasing health awareness, there is a growing demand for healthier food options, including lower-calorie, reduced-sugar, and dairy-free ice creams. Ice cream parlors in North America are responding to this trend by offering products with alternative sweeteners, organic ingredients, and lower fat content to cater to health-conscious consumers.
 

The market in U.S. is set to grow through a CAGR of 5.2% through the forecast time period. The rise in dietary restrictions and preferences, such as veganism and lactose intolerance, has driven the demand for plant-based and dairy-free ice creams. Parlors are expanding their menus to include options made from almond, coconut, oat, and soy milk, meeting the needs of customers with specific dietary requirements.
 

The German ice cream parlor market maintained a considerable position in Europe. The convenience of online ordering and home delivery has become increasingly important. The growth of digital platforms and food delivery services has driven parlors to invest in online ordering systems and partnerships with delivery apps to reach a broader customer base and enhance convenience.
 

China is supposed to grow at the highest rate of 6% in the region. The level of disposable income and consumer spending power plays a significant role in driving demand for ice cream. As economic conditions improve and disposable income rises, consumers are more likely to indulge in premium and specialty ice cream products, boosting demand for high-quality and gourmet options.
 

Ice Cream Parlor Market Share

The market seem to be consolidated in nature due to presence of local and global players across the globe. In 2023, the market players such Baskin-Robbins, Ben & Jerry’s, Blue Bell Creameries, Breyers, Carvel, Cold Stone Creamery, Dairy Queen, Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop collectively held around 5%-10% market share. These prominent players are proactively involved in strategic endeavors, such as mergers & acquisitions, facility expansions & collaborations, to expand their product portfolios, extend their reach to a broader customer base, and strengthen their market position.
 

Ice Cream Parlor Market Companies

Major players operating in the ice cream parlor industry are:

• Baskin-Robbins
• Ben & Jerry’s
• Blue Bell Creameries
• Breyers
• Carvel
• Cold Stone Creamery
• Dairy Queen
• Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop
• Graeter’s Ice Cream
• Haagen-Dazs
• Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams
• Lick Honest Ice Creams
• Unilever
• Salt & Straw
• Sundae School
   

Ice Cream Parlor Industry News

• In 2023, Sunny Honey Home is a new flavor created by Ben & Jerry's in collaboration with The Entrepreneur Refugee Network (TERN). This one-of-a-kind mix was created to generate revenue and promote the economic aims of refugees in the United Kingdom.
   
• In 2023, Cold Stone Creamery and Reese collaborated to create Reese-inspired ice creams such as Reese's Take 5 peanut butter ice cream and Reese's Peanut Butter Cup ice cream. Furthermore, the company introduced marshmallow-flavored ice cream.
   
• In 2023, Baskin-Robbins reopened its outlet in Bay City, Michigan. The store closed in December 2022 and was looking for new owners. Since its reopening, the business has seen massive growth and customer demand.
   
• In 2022, Amorino introduced three organic sorbet flavors: tangerine acerola, blueberry açai, and blood orange ginger.
   

The ice cream parlor market research report includes in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates & forecast in terms of revenue (USD Billion) from 2021 to 2032, for the following segments:

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Market, By Type

• Independent
• Branded/Franchise

Market, By Product

• Traditional ice cream
• Artisanal ice cream

Market, By Service Type

• Dine-in
• Takeaway
• Combined

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • UK
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • South Korea
  • Australia 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
• MEA
  • UAE
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa