UK Ice Cream Market Size, Share, Trends, Growth, Forecast, Outlook, Report, 2025-2033

Market Overview

The UK Ice Cream Market was valued at USD 1.8 Billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 3.0 Billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period of 2025-2033. Growth is driven by consumer preference for artisanal flavors, health-conscious choices like low-sugar and dairy-free options, advancing packaging innovations, and expanding online sales. These factors collectively stimulate market expansion particularly during peak seasons.

Study Assumption Years

• Base Year: 2024
• Historical Years: 2019-2024
• Forecast Period: 2025-2033

UK Ice Cream Market Key Takeaways

• The market size in 2024 was USD 1.8 Billion.
• The projected CAGR from 2025 to 2033 is 5.2%.
• The market is forecasted to reach USD 3.0 Billion by 2033.
• Rising demand for innovative and diverse flavors is a significant growth driver, exemplified by Ferrero UK’s Nutella Ice Cream Tubs launched in August 2024.
• Premium and artisanal ice creams emphasizing high-quality ingredients and craftsmanship are gaining popularity.
• Plant-based and dairy-free options are expanding, with examples such as Magnum’s vegan Chill Blueberry Cookie sticks and McDonald’s vegan ice cream launch.
• The growth of online sales channels and digital marketing strategies like social media campaigns enhances market reach.
• Seasonal demand fluctuations are being mitigated by introducing year-round consumption options and diverse warm dessert flavors.

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UK Ice Cream Market Growth Factors

Industry growth has been attributed to the changing consumer focus towards flavors that are innovative. In August 2024, Ferrero UK launched with hazelnut flavored Nutella Ice Cream Tubs to encourage adventurous consumers to expand their flavor palates and embrace new flavor combinations and experiences. When flavors innovate with novel combinations of ingredients or limited editions, they generate customer excitement and loyalty, and they expand the market.

Increased demand for high-end and specialty ice creams is driving the market too, as these products tend to use natural and locally produced ingredients in their recipes. Simply Ice Cream has re-released its Mini Egg Ice Cream for a limited time around March 2024. Consumers willing to pay more for premium brands appreciate more upscale taste preferences and a focus on craftsmanship.

Health and sustainability drive growth for the UK ice cream market greatly, and low calorie, non-dairy, vegan ice creams grow in popularity. Magnum has vegan Chill Blueberry Cookie sticks. McDonald’s Vegan Scoop ice cream is available in select UK restaurants. Eco-aware consumers increasingly value sustainable packaging and ethically sourced ingredients, and companies respond.

UK Ice Cream Market Segmentation

By Flavor:

• Vanilla: A staple flavor with broad appeal, boosted by premium variants using real vanilla beans, organic and dairy-free options.
• Chocolate: Strong market presence with indulgent offerings including vegan and low-sugar options, premium cocoa, and ethical sourcing.
• Fruit: Gaining traction due to refreshing natural tastes; popular flavors include strawberry, mango, and raspberry, with demand for organic and exotic variants.

By Category:

• Impulse Ice Cream: Includes cones, bars, and sandwiches targeting on-the-go consumption and spontaneous purchases, especially in high-traffic locations.
• Take-Home Ice Cream: Family-sized tubs and multipacks favored for home consumption, with growth driven by convenience and at-home dining trends.
• Artisanal Ice Cream: Premium, handcrafted products emphasizing natural ingredients and sustainable practices, appealing to niche consumers seeking authenticity.

By Product:

• Cup: Popular for portion control and mess-free convenience, available in various flavors and suited for personalization with mix-ins.
• Stick: Classic handheld favorites with nostalgic appeal, increasingly offered with low-sugar and vegan varieties.
• Cone: Iconic UK format with crunchy textures and creamy fillings, featuring premium artisanal and budget-friendly options.
• Brick: Blocks for slicing and sharing, favored by families, practical for storage with both traditional and premium flavor offerings.
• Tub: Dominant in take-home segments, offering multiple servings and including premium and dairy-free options.

By Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets: Leading distribution channel offering diverse product ranges and driving sales through bulk discounts and family packs.
• Convenience Stores: Focused on impulse purchases, typically featuring single-serve products and increasing health-conscious offerings.
• Ice Cream Parlors: Specialized venues for premium and customizable products, benefiting from trends and foot traffic.
• Online Stores: Rapidly growing due to e-commerce convenience, offering premium, artisanal, and specialized products via delivery and subscription services.

Regional Insights

London emerges as the dominant region in the UK ice cream market, boasting a vibrant scene with a blend of traditional and artisanal brands. The cosmopolitan population drives demand for premium, exotic, and health-focused options, supported by numerous food festivals and events that facilitate brand engagement. The diversity and high consumer demand in London make it a strategic hub for innovation and growth within the sector.

Recent Developments & News

• In July 2025: Wall’s launched a limited-edition Minecraft-themed ice cream in UK Morrisons supermarkets, supported by a TikTok campaign targeting Gen Z.
• In March 2025: Lotus Bakeries partnered with Froneri for production and distribution of Lotus Biscoff-branded ice cream in Europe, with plans through 2028.
• In January 2025: Brymor consolidated production of Cream o’ Galloway ice cream in North Yorkshire, preserving local distribution and outlets.

Key Players

• Ferrero UK
• Magnum
• McDonald’s
• Brand of Brothers
• Simply Ice Cream
• Unilever
• Wall’s
• Lotus Bakeries
• Froneri
• Brymor
• Cream o’ Galloway

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