Frozen Dessert Market Size, Share, Growth and Trend Analysis Report, 2032

Summary
Market Landscape
Methodology
Table of Contents

Frozen Dessert Market Research Report, By Type (Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream, Frozen Cakes, and Other Types), By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Specialist Retailers, and Others) and By Region (Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, Latin America and Middle East & Africa) and Forecasts 2025 – 2032.

The global frozen dessert market size is expanding rapidly as consumer preferences shift toward indulgent yet health-conscious treats. Frozen desserts, including ice cream, sorbet, frozen yogurt, and gelato, are popular across demographics due to their rich flavors, creamy textures, and refreshing qualities.

The size of the frozen dessert market was valued at USD 100 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD XX billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of XX% from 2025 to 2032. With increasing demand for plant-based, low-calorie, and functional frozen treats, manufacturers are introducing dairy-free, high-protein, and sugar-reduced options, further boosting the market size of frozen products.

Industry Trends

The frozen dessert market size trends indicate strong advancements in plant-based alternatives, catering to vegan and lactose-intolerant consumers. Additionally, the trend of low-calorie, high-protein frozen treats is gaining traction among health-conscious buyers.

The Frozen Dessert market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenient, indulgent, and healthier dessert options. Innovations in plant-based, low-sugar, and dairy-free alternatives are reshaping the market as health-conscious consumers seek products that align with their dietary preferences.

The rise of e-commerce platforms and online delivery services is expanding the reach of frozen dessert brands, offering more accessibility and convenience to consumers. Additionally, sustainability concerns are encouraging brands to adopt eco-friendly packaging and source ingredients responsibly.

However, the market also faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices, supply chain disruptions, and the need to address consumer concerns regarding preservatives and additives. Despite these challenges, the sector is poised for continued innovation with a focus on clean-label ingredients, novel flavors, and a growing range of plant-based offerings.

Industry Expert's Opinion:

Syed Talha Imam, GM, FrieslandCampina Engro

“The frozen desserts category does not formally report numbers. However, as per market estimates, the category witnessed an average growth of approximately six percent until 2019 and has been growing steadily over the past few years. Our research suggests that growth would have been even greater had we not encountered the challenges that Covid-19 posed. However, the category has recovered and is heading towards yet another growth year.”

TT Consultants’ Perspective

The Frozen Dessert Market is experiencing substantial growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences, rising demand for plant-based and low-calorie alternatives, and innovations in flavor and texture.

Health-conscious consumers are fueling the shift towards dairy-free, protein-enriched, and sugar-reduced options, while premium and artisanal frozen desserts are gaining popularity. Advancements in processing technologies, sustainable packaging, and clean-label ingredients are further shaping the industry.

North America and Europe lead the market with strong demand for premium and functional frozen desserts, while the Asia-Pacific region is witnessing rapid expansion due to increasing disposable income and a growing preference for indulgent yet health-conscious treats.

As the market evolves, the integration of AI-driven flavor development, personalized nutrition, and eco-friendly production methods will continue to redefine the frozen dessert landscape, enhancing product innovation and consumer experience.

Market Segmentation

1. By Type (Frozen Yogurt, Ice Cream, Frozen Cakes, and Other Types)

Frozen Yogurt held the largest market share of XX% in 2024 and is expected to maintain its dominance, driven by increasing consumer demand for healthier, lower-calorie dessert options. The popularity of probiotic benefits, combined with the growing preference for dairy alternatives, is fueling the growth of the frozen yogurt segment.

Ice Cream remains a strong segment, favored for its wide variety of flavors and indulgent appeal. The segment continues to grow as new flavors, low-fat options, and plant-based alternatives cater to diverse consumer preferences. Frozen Cakes are also seeing steady demand, particularly in the premium segment, as consumers seek unique, celebratory desserts.

“Others” includes, sorbets, frozen bars, and novelty desserts, are gaining popularity, especially among health-conscious and lactose-intolerant consumers. The growth in this category is driven by innovative product offerings, such as dairy-free and sugar-free variants, catering to specific dietary needs.

As the market diversifies, the demand for new and customizable frozen dessert options is expected to fuel continued innovation and expansion.

2. By Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Specialist Retailers, and Other Distribution Channels)

Supermarkets and Hypermarkets held the largest market share of XX% in the global frozen dessert market for 2024 and are expected to maintain their dominance, driven by their widespread reach, convenience, and variety of frozen dessert options available to consumers.

These retail giants continue to be the primary distribution channel for frozen desserts, offering both premium and mass-market products.

Convenience Stores are also seeing steady growth in the frozen dessert market, particularly among urban consumers seeking quick and easy access to a range of dessert options. Specialist Retailers, including health-focused stores and gourmet outlets, are gaining traction by offering niche products like dairy-free, low-sugar, and organic frozen desserts, catering to specific consumer preferences.

Other Distribution Channels, such as online platforms and direct-to-consumer channels, are emerging as important contributors to market growth, providing consumers with the convenience of home delivery and access to unique frozen dessert products. The increasing trend towards online shopping and subscription services is expected to drive further growth in this segment.

3. By Region (Asia Pacific, Europe, North America, Latin America and Middle East & Africa)

Asia Pacific held the largest market share of XX% in 2024 and is expected to maintain its dominant position in the global frozen dessert market, driven by rapid urbanization, rising disposable incomes, and increasing demand for frozen desserts in countries like China, India, and Japan.

The growing preference for convenient and indulgent dessert options, alongside the rising popularity of frozen yogurt and dairy-free alternatives, is propelling market growth in the region.

North America follows closely, with a significant share of the market, owing to the high consumption of ice cream and frozen yogurt, along with an increasing focus on health-conscious, low-sugar, and plant-based products. The region also benefits from established retail networks and innovation in frozen dessert offerings.

Europe is witnessing steady growth, particularly in the premium segment, as consumers demand artisanal and gourmet frozen dessert options.
Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are emerging markets, with rising demand for frozen desserts driven by evolving consumer tastes and expanding retail infrastructure.

Increasing awareness of health-conscious alternatives and premium frozen products is expected to further boost market growth in these regions.

Competitive Scenario

The global frozen dessert market is highly competitive, with key players such as General Mills Inc., Fonterra Co-operative Group, Meiji Holdings Co. Ltd, and Nestlé S.A. leading the way in innovation and market growth.

These companies are at the forefront of advancements in frozen dessert production, leveraging new technologies and ingredients to cater to the evolving consumer demands for healthier, more diverse options. They are integrating AI, cloud-based systems, and innovative flavor profiles to enhance product offerings, while also expanding into plant-based, low-calorie, and allergen-free dessert segments.

Recent Developments and Strategic Activities:

In October 2024, The Middleby Corporation announced the acquisition of Emery Thompson, a well-known, global brand in frozen dessert equipment which is located in Brooksville, Florida, and the company has revenues of $10 million annually.
In April 2024, Magnum, Unilever PLC's premium ice cream brand, expanded its product lineup with the launch of innovative flavors. One of its latest offerings, the Magnum Vegan Chill Blueberry Cookie, is a plant-based ice cream stick featuring vanilla biscuit-flavored ice cream, a blueberry sorbet core, and crunchy cookie pieces, all enrobed in rich vegan chocolate. Crafted with 100% sustainably sourced cocoa beans certified by the Rainforest Alliance and ethically produced vanilla from Madagascar, this new flavor aligns with Magnum's commitment to sustainability and indulgence.
In March 2024, Arun Ice Creams was announced as the official ice cream partner of Sunrisers Hyderabad for the T20 Cup 2024 season.