The delicious and fascinating realm of European ice cream production is evolving at pace alongside shifting consumer priorities and tastes. Catherine McNeil, Director of Operations at the Ice Cream Alliance, gives the latest scoop.
A TASTE OF TRADITION, A SCOOP OF TOMORROW
For decades, the European ice cream market was defined by the convenience of the supermarket aisle and the predictable scoop from a familiar parlour.
It was a comfortable landscape, built on popular flavours and mass production. However, beneath this surface, a quiet revolution has been brewing.
Today, Europe is undergoing a shift in its frozen dessert culture, driven by a new generation of consumers who crave authenticity and innovation, and by producers who are responding to that demand with creativity and craftsmanship.
This is a story that isn’t a passing trend, but rather a telling about the fundamental change in how we think about, consume, and create ice cream across the continent.
The most significant evidence of this change is evident in the numbers which point to the fact that the artisanal ice cream sector is a key driver of growth in Europe.
The artisanal ice cream segment is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.82 percent through 2030, a significant factor in the overall market’s expansion.
Furthermore, this rapid growth suggests that consumers are deliberately seeking out something different from the standard offering. It is a demand for a product that feels special, unique, and connected to tradition.
FORGING NEW TASTES
So, why are so many people making the switch from a cheap cone to a more expensive, handcrafted scoop?
It comes down to a preference for a better experience. Consumers are increasingly willing to pay more for premium, handcrafted products with high-quality ingredients and unique flavours.
They are gravitating towards what the industry calls “clean label” and “experiential” food products. The appeal of a clean label is simple – it is about knowing exactly what is in your food, without a long list of additives or artificial ingredients.
Producers have noted that 83 percent of consumers consider clean label ingredients, such as organic dairy and natural sweeteners, to be very important. This desire for transparency and quality is transforming the relationship between producers and consumers.
When people feel a connection to the ingredients, the maker, and the process, the simple act of eating ice cream becomes a more meaningful experience.
This shift in consumer behaviour has also driven the entire industry towards innovation. No longer content with a handful of classic flavours, artisan brands are leading the charge in creating new and exciting combinations.
Flavour innovation is a major motivator for market expansion and producers are moving beyond traditional flavours to offer more unique combinations, such as those inspired by desserts, spices, or floral infusions.
A CHANGE IN PRIORITIES
Beyond flavour, a growing focus on health and wellness is also driving change.
There is a building demand for products that align with health-conscious lifestyles, including low-calorie, low-sugar, and plant-based alternatives. For instance, the growth of lactose-free product launches has increased by about eight percent per year since 2016 in Europe.
This demonstrates that innovation is driving the creation of ice cream that is more accessible to a wider audience.
Lastly, sustainability has gained popularity, with companies focusing on eco-friendly packaging and the ethical sourcing of ingredients. From farm to freezer, the modern ice cream maker is considering its environmental impact, which is a key consideration for today’s conscientious consumer.
Additionally, modern consumers are increasingly seeking out a tangible link to the past. This deep appreciation for authenticity and heritage is a powerful driver of purchasing decisions, as people look to honour tradition through the products they choose.
This is particularly true for artisan ice cream, a product with a rich history dating back centuries to its Italian and French origins. By choosing a scoop crafted in small batches with simple, quality ingredients, consumers are participating in a tradition of craftsmanship that has been perfected over generations.
SPEARHEADING EVOLUTION
The European ice cream revolution is a celebration of both the past and the future.
It honours the tradition of classic recipes and local ingredients while embracing the possibilities of new technologies and flavours.
The Ice Cream Alliance stands at the centre of this movement, bringing together the people who shape the UK’s ice cream industry.
As the only trade association of its kind, it supports innovation and celebrates the craft that sets artisan producers apart. Additionally, the alliance offers practical support, advice, and a sense of community for both new and established businesses as they respond to a changing industry.
Events like the annual Ice Cream and Artisan Food Show, along with national competitions, give producers and makers a chance to share ideas and showcase new creations. In these ways, the alliance helps the industry grow and inspires those eager to explore what ice cream can become.
