Top 4 Ice Cream Companies in the World

The global ice cream market reached a value of US$ 73.4 Billion in 2023. As per the analysis by IMARC Group, the top ice cream companies are focusing on product innovation by introducing new flavors, premium ingredients, and healthier options to cater to changing consumer preferences. Additionally, they are extensively investing in marketing and branding efforts to build brand recognition and loyalty. They are using social media, influencer marketing, and creative packaging to attract consumers and differentiate their products. Apart from this, key players are also expanding their market share through mergers and acquisitions, which enables them to acquire new brands, technology, and distribution channels. Furthermore, key players are expanding their distribution channels and retail networks to reach new customers and increase sales by collaborating with supermarkets, convenience stores, and online retailers. Moreover, they are also launching new packaging formats, such as single-serve cups, bars and sandwiches, and resealable bags and tubs, that are on the go and easier to consume as per the convenience of consumers. Looking forward, the market value is expected to reach US$ 98.7 Billion by 2032, growing at a projected CAGR of 3.1% during 2024-2032.

Learn about opportunities, challenges, and trends in the global ice cream market with IMARC’s market research report. Try a free sample today!

List of Top Companies Operating in the Ice Cream Industry Worldwide

The global ice cream market has several major players, including Unilever, Nestle, Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group, and General Mills. More information about these companies has been provided below.

1. Unilever Plc

Unilever is a multinational consumer goods company that operates in over 190 countries and produces a wide range of consumer products, including food, beverages, cleaning agents, and personal care products. Its well-known ice cream brands include Walls’, Ben and Jerry’s and Magnum. The company is committed to sustainability and social responsibility, with a goal to become carbon neutral by 2039 and to ensure that all of its plastic packagings is reusable, recyclable, or compostable by 2025. Unilever has also been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, including being named one of the World's Most Ethical Companies by the Ethisphere Institute.

2. Nestlé S.A.

Nestlé is a Swiss multinational food and beverage company that produces a wide range of food and beverage products, including coffee, chocolate, dairy products, and bottled water. Its well-known brands are Nescafe, KitKat, and Perrier. In addition, Nestlé ice cream is made with a mix of fresh flavor and excellent ingredients that provide the perfect treat. The company has also been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, including being named one of the Best Workplaces for Diversity by Great Place to Work.

3. Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group Co Ltd (Yili Group)

Inner Mongolia Yili Industrial Group is one of the largest dairy producers in China, which focuses on producing milk, yogurt, ice cream, and cheese. Yili has a strong commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation, aiming to become a world-class dairy company. The company has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, including being named one of the Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World by Corporate Knights. Moreover, Yili has also been recognized for its product quality, winning numerous awards at international dairy competitions.

4. General Mills

General Mills is a multinational food and beverage company that produces and markets a wide range of consumer food products, including cereals, snacks, baking products, frozen meals, and yogurt. It is well-known for its brands such as Cheerios, Pillsbury, and Yoplait. The company is committed to sustainability and social responsibility, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030 and advance regenerative agriculture on one million acres of farmland by 2030. It offers a variety of products to tables around the world, with unexpected brands and quality ingredients, ranging from breakfast to dessert, ingredients to pet food. Häagen-Dazs is the most popular ice cream brand in the US. Although Häagen-Dazs products are available in the US, General Mills manages and operates the Häagen-Dazs business outside of North America. This ice cream is found in over 90 countries and shops in over 40, including France, China, Mexico, Thailand and the UAE. Moreover, General Mills has also been recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, including being named one of the Best Places to Work for LGBTQ Equality by the Human Rights Campaign.

About Author: