Global Frozen Novelty Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In 2021, Nomad Novelty announced an agreement with Fortenova Grupa d. d. to acquire Fortenova's Frozen Food Business Group (FFBG) in cash for USD 724 million in order to expand its product portfolio, as FFBG offers a wide range of frozen meals and has a large distribution channel in Eastern Europe.

• In 2021, Conagra Brands Inc. launched its extensive summer line products to provide manufacturers inside single-serve frozen meals and collect brands with new Banquet, Marie Callender's, Wholesome Alternative, and Hungry Man dishes. Conagra's mission is to please customers by providing nutritious frozen novelty.

The global frozen novelty market can be segmented into several categories based on product type, distribution channel, and region. Product-wise, the market includes ice cream bars, popsicles, gelato sandwiches, frozen yogurt cones, and various other innovative frozen treats. Ice cream bars and popsicles are among the most popular segments, known for their wide variety of flavors and appealing packaging that caters to both children and adults. Gelato sandwiches and frozen yogurt cones appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for lighter options without compromising on taste.

In terms of distribution channels, supermarkets and hypermarkets dominate the frozen novelty market due to their extensive reach and ability to offer a diverse selection of products to a broad consumer base. These retail outlets provide a convenient shopping experience where consumers can browse through different brands and flavors, often complemented by promotional offers and seasonal discounts. Convenience stores also play a significant role, particularly in urban areas where consumers seek quick and easy access to frozen novelties for immediate consumption. The rise of online shopping platforms has further expanded the market by allowing consumers to purchase frozen novelties from the comfort of their homes, with options for home delivery enhancing convenience.

The global frozen novelty market is expected to continue its growth trajectory, supported by ongoing product innovation, expanding distribution channels, and increasing consumer awareness of healthier and indulgent frozen dessert options. Manufacturers are likely to focus on introducing new flavors, textures, and packaging formats to capture consumer interest and maintain competitive advantage in a dynamic marketplace.

Global Frozen Novelty Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Frozen Novelty Market has been segmented by Product, Application, and Geography.

Global Frozen Novelty Market, Segmentation by Product

The Global Frozen Novelty Market has been segmented by Product into Ice Cream Bars, Ice Pops, Ice Cream Sandwiches, and Others.

Ice cream bars are a popular choice among consumers for their convenience and indulgent flavors. These bars often feature a creamy ice cream center coated in chocolate or other coatings, appealing to both children and adults seeking a satisfying dessert or snack. The variety of flavors and textures available in ice cream bars caters to diverse consumer preferences, from classic vanilla and chocolate combinations to exotic fruit and nut varieties.

Ice pops, also known as popsicles or ice lollies, represent another significant segment in the frozen novelty market. These frozen treats typically consist of flavored ice or ice cream on a stick, offering a refreshing and portable snack option. Ice pops come in a multitude of flavors, colors, and shapes, making them particularly popular during hot weather or as a refreshing treat for children and adults alike. The appeal of ice pops lies in their affordability, wide availability across retail channels, and the ability to cater to various dietary preferences, including sugar-free and fruit-based options.

Ice cream sandwiches are a distinctive segment within the frozen novelty market, combining creamy ice cream between two layers of cookies, biscuits, or wafers. These sandwiches offer a unique texture and flavor experience, often featuring classic combinations like vanilla ice cream with chocolate cookies or more innovative pairings such as salted caramel ice cream with oatmeal cookies. Ice cream sandwiches appeal to consumers looking for a handheld dessert that combines the richness of ice cream with the satisfying crunch of cookies, making them a popular choice for both casual snacking and special occasions.

Global Frozen Novelty Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Frozen Novelty Market has been segmented by Application into Residential and Commercial.

Residential applications encompass purchases made by individual consumers for personal consumption at home. Frozen novelties are popular among households seeking convenient and indulgent dessert options. Consumers often purchase these products from supermarkets, convenience stores, or online platforms to stock their freezers, making them readily available for family snacks, desserts, or treats for guests. The convenience of having a variety of frozen novelties on hand allows households to cater to different tastes and preferences without the need for extensive preparation.

Commercial applications of frozen novelties involve their use in food service establishments, including restaurants, cafes, ice cream parlors, and other dining venues. Commercial consumers purchase frozen novelties in bulk quantities to serve customers seeking a quick, refreshing dessert or snack option. Ice cream bars, popsicles, and ice cream sandwiches are often featured on dessert menus or sold as impulse items at food service outlets. The commercial sector benefits from the versatility and appeal of frozen novelties, which can be customized with toppings, sauces, or creative presentations to enhance their appeal and profitability.

The commercial segment of the frozen novelty market also extends to institutional buyers such as schools, hospitals, and catering services, where frozen novelties are served as part of meal programs, events, or special occasions. These buyers prioritize product consistency, quality, and adherence to dietary guidelines, including options for low-sugar, gluten-free, or allergen-free alternatives. Manufacturers and distributors catering to the commercial sector often provide tailored solutions, including bulk packaging, specialized flavors, and logistical support to meet the unique demands of food service and institutional customers. Overall, both residential and commercial applications contribute to the dynamic growth and diversity of the global frozen novelty market, driven by consumer preferences for convenience, variety, and quality in frozen dessert options.

Global Frozen Novelty Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel

The Global Frozen Novelty Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Supermarkets, Ice Cream Trucks, and Convenience Stores.

Supermarkets are a key distribution channel for frozen novelty products, offering a wide variety of frozen treats like ice cream bars, popsicles, frozen yogurt, and novelty ice creams. Supermarkets attract a large customer base due to their extensive reach and the convenience they provide, allowing shoppers to pick up frozen novelties alongside other grocery items. The diverse selection available in supermarkets caters to different price points and consumer tastes, ranging from premium brands to affordable options. The refrigerated sections within supermarkets are strategically designed to showcase frozen novelties, making them easy to access and increasing impulse purchases.

Ice cream trucks, on the other hand, offer a more nostalgic and spontaneous way for consumers to purchase frozen novelties. These mobile vendors are especially popular during warm weather months, at public events, parks, beaches, and festivals, providing convenient access to frozen treats in outdoor settings. Ice cream trucks often carry a limited selection of novelty products but capitalize on their ability to reach consumers in high-traffic areas or locations that do not have easy access to supermarkets or convenience stores. This distribution channel is particularly appealing for impulse purchases, and the unique experience of buying from an ice cream truck adds to the appeal, particularly among children and families.

Convenience stores also play an important role in the distribution of frozen novelties, offering easy access to consumers who are looking for quick, on-the-go purchases. These stores tend to have a smaller but more focused selection of frozen novelty products, often featuring popular, familiar brands. Convenience stores are particularly useful for consumers seeking a quick treat late at night or during off-hours, as they often have longer operating hours compared to supermarkets and ice cream trucks. The accessibility of convenience stores in residential neighborhoods, gas stations, and urban centers makes them an important point of sale for frozen novelties.

In conclusion, the distribution channels in the Global Frozen Novelty Market—supermarkets, ice cream trucks, and convenience stores—provide a well-rounded approach to reaching diverse consumer segments, whether through the broad selection and accessibility of supermarkets, the spontaneous and nostalgic appeal of ice cream trucks, or the convenience and extended hours offered by convenience stores. Each channel plays a vital role in catering to the varying preferences and needs of consumers seeking frozen novelty products.

Global Frozen Novelty Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Frozen Novelty Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Frozen Novelty Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America and Europe are mature markets with established consumer preferences for premium and indulgent frozen desserts. In North America, the United States and Canada lead in consumption, driven by a strong culture of snacking and high disposable incomes that support purchases of ice cream bars, popsicles, and innovative frozen treats. The market in these regions benefits from extensive distribution networks, robust cold chain logistics, and continuous product innovations to cater to evolving consumer tastes and dietary preferences, such as low-sugar and dairy-free options.

Europe, similarly, sees robust growth in the frozen novelty market, particularly in countries like Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, where frozen desserts are enjoyed year-round. The region's demand is bolstered by a preference for artisanal and premium frozen treats, alongside increasing consumer interest in healthier options and sustainable packaging. Regulatory standards regarding food safety and quality also influence market dynamics, encouraging manufacturers to invest in product differentiation and marketing strategies to maintain market share and profitability.

Asia Pacific emerges as a burgeoning market for frozen novelties, fueled by rapid urbanization, changing lifestyles, and increasing disposable incomes across countries like China, Japan, and India. The region experiences a growing appetite for Western-style desserts and indulgent treats, leading to higher demand for ice cream bars, popsicles, and specialty frozen desserts. The expansion of retail infrastructure, coupled with rising consumer awareness of international brands and flavors, further drives market growth. Manufacturers in Asia Pacific are also exploring opportunities in online sales channels to capitalize on the growing trend of e-commerce and digital platforms for food purchases.

In the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America, the frozen novelty market shows potential for growth but faces unique challenges such as infrastructure limitations and varying consumer preferences. These regions are seeing increasing urbanization and a shift towards convenience foods, which is driving demand for frozen novelties in urban centers. Countries in these regions are focusing on improving cold chain logistics and expanding retail networks to enhance accessibility and availability of frozen desserts. Moreover, cultural preferences and dietary habits influence product offerings, with opportunities emerging for tailored products that cater to local tastes while meeting international standards of quality and variety.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Frozen Novelty Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers

• Growth in Disposable Income and Spending on Indulgent Treats
• Expansion of Distribution Channels, including Online Platforms
• Innovation in Flavor Varieties and Product Offerings

• Rising Demand for Premium and Artisanal Frozen Novelties - The global market for premium and artisanal frozen novelties is experiencing robust growth driven by evolving consumer preferences and a growing appetite for high-quality dessert experiences. Discerning consumers are increasingly seeking unique and indulgent frozen treats that offer superior taste, texture, and craftsmanship compared to conventional mass-produced desserts. This shift in consumer behavior reflects a broader trend towards premiumization in the food and beverage sector, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for products that offer exceptional quality and artisanal flair.

  Premium and artisanal frozen novelties often distinguish themselves through distinctive flavors, premium ingredients, and innovative recipes that cater to gourmet tastes. These products are frequently crafted in small batches using traditional methods or handcrafted techniques, which contribute to their artisanal appeal and superior sensory experience. For consumers, the allure of premium and artisanal frozen novelties lies in their ability to deliver a memorable and luxurious dessert experience that goes beyond basic frozen treats.

  The increasing popularity of premium and artisanal frozen novelties presents lucrative opportunities for manufacturers and retailers alike. By tapping into the growing demand for sophisticated and indulgent dessert options, companies can expand their product portfolios, attract affluent consumers willing to spend more on culinary experiences, and capitalize on the premiumization trend driving growth in the global frozen novelty market. As consumer preferences continue to evolve towards higher-quality and more artisanal food choices, the outlook remains favorable for the continued expansion and innovation within the premium and artisanal segment of the frozen novelty market.

Restraints

• Challenges in Maintaining Product Quality during Storage and Transportation
• Regulatory Requirements and Compliance Costs
• Intense Competition from Fresh Desserts and Confectionery

• Price Sensitivity among Price-Conscious Consumers - In the global market for frozen novelties, price sensitivity among price-conscious consumers poses a significant challenge and consideration for manufacturers and retailers alike. As consumers become increasingly mindful of their spending habits, particularly in uncertain economic climates or during periods of economic downturn, affordability becomes a crucial factor influencing purchasing decisions. Price-conscious consumers often prioritize value for money and may be hesitant to purchase premium or higher-priced frozen novelties, opting instead for more budget-friendly options or homemade alternatives.

  The price sensitivity among price-conscious consumers is amplified by competitive pricing strategies employed by manufacturers and retailers offering frozen novelties. Price wars and promotional discounts aimed at capturing market share can intensify competition and further exacerbate price sensitivity among consumers. Additionally, the availability of lower-cost alternatives, such as store-brand frozen novelties or bulk-packaged products, provides price-conscious consumers with viable alternatives that meet their budgetary constraints without compromising on taste or quality.

  Despite the challenges posed by price sensitivity, there are opportunities for manufacturers and retailers to differentiate themselves through value-added propositions beyond pricing alone. This includes emphasizing product quality, nutritional benefits, sustainability initiatives, and unique flavor profiles that resonate with consumers' preferences and values. By effectively balancing affordability with perceived value and differentiation, companies can navigate the complexities of price sensitivity and position themselves competitively in the dynamic global market for frozen novelties.

Opportunities

• Introduction of Healthier and Functional Frozen Novelty Options
• Partnerships with Retail Chains and Specialty Stores
• Adoption of Sustainable Packaging Solutions

• Consumer Education on the Convenience - Consumer education plays a pivotal role in enhancing the market penetration and acceptance of frozen novelties by highlighting their convenience and practical benefits. Many consumers may not fully grasp the convenience factor of frozen novelties compared to traditional desserts or homemade options. Educating consumers about the ease of preparation, storage, and availability of frozen novelties can effectively address misconceptions and encourage trial among new consumers.

  One key aspect of consumer education involves emphasizing the time-saving benefits of frozen novelties. Unlike homemade desserts that require preparation from scratch or traditional desserts that may have limited availability, frozen novelties offer instant gratification. Consumers can conveniently access a wide variety of frozen novelties at their local grocery stores or online platforms, ready to enjoy at any time without the need for extensive preparation or cooking.

  Consumer education on the convenience of frozen novelties is essential for expanding market awareness and driving adoption among diverse consumer segments. By effectively communicating the time-saving benefits, dietary versatility, and quality assurance of frozen novelties, manufacturers and retailers can enhance consumer perception, stimulate demand, and capitalize on growth opportunities within the global market for frozen novelties.

Key players in Global Frozen Novelty Market include :

• Magnum
• Unilever
• Yili
• Mengniu
• Friendly
• Ben & Jerry
• Mario's Gelati
• Bulla

In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:

• Company Overview and Product Portfolio
• Key Developments
• Financial Overview
• Strategies
• Company SWOT Analysis