The global gelato market size was valued at USD 13.24 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach USD 28.34 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.81% during the forecast period (2025–2033). As consumers become more health-conscious, the demand for gelato has increased. Gelato is often perceived as a lighter, healthier option compared to regular ice cream because it has less fat and fewer calories.This growing demand for gelato aligns with market trends that highlight indulgence without compromising health.
Gelato is a traditional Italian-style ice cream that is known for its creamy texture and intense flavor. Unlike regular ice cream, gelato is made with a higher proportion of milk and a lower proportion of cream, resulting in a denser, smoother texture. It is also churned at a slower speed than ice cream, which incorporates less air, giving it a richer consistency.
Gelato typically has less fat than traditional ice cream, as it contains less cream and more milk. This makes the flavors more pronounced. Moreover, it is often served at a slightly warmer temperature than ice cream, which enhances its creamy texture and allows the flavors to stand out more.
Growing demand for premium desserts
The growing demand for premium desserts is a key driver of the global gelato market, fueled by shifting consumer preferences for indulgent, high-quality treats. With increasing disposable incomes, especially in urban areas, more consumers are willing to spend on artisanal and luxurious desserts. Gelato, known for its creamy texture and rich flavors, is positioned as a healthier yet indulgent alternative to traditional ice creams due to its lower fat content and use of natural ingredients.
This trend is further amplified by social media, where visually appealing gelato desserts, like rainbow cones and floral-shaped servings, attract millennials seeking Instagram-worthy experiences.
Seasonal demand
Seasonal demand poses a significant restraint to the global gelato market, as sales tend to peak during warmer months while declining sharply in colder seasons. This fluctuation limits consistent revenue generation and challenges manufacturers in managing production and inventory effectively. For instance, artisanal gelato shops in Europe often experience a dramatic drop in foot traffic during winter, leading to temporary closures or downsizing to cut costs.
Companies like Häagen-Dazs have attempted to mitigate this issue by diversifying their product offerings, such as introducing frozen desserts and gelato-inspired cakes suitable for year-round consumption. Despite these efforts, smaller businesses often struggle to remain profitable during off-seasons, making the seasonality of demand a persistent challenge in the gelato industry.
Emergence of vegan and dairy-free gelato
The emergence of vegan and dairy-free gelato presents a significant opportunity in the global gelato market, driven by the rising demand for plant-based and allergen-free desserts. Consumers are increasingly seeking alternatives that cater to dietary preferences, including lactose intolerance, veganism, and health-conscious lifestyles. This trend has encouraged manufacturers to innovate with ingredients like almond milk, coconut milk, and oat milk to create creamy, flavorful gelato options without dairy.
These products not only cater to niche markets but also appeal to a broader audience seeking sustainable and ethical food choices. This growing segment creates opportunities for market expansion and brand differentiation.
| ATTRIBUTES | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2021-2033 |
| Historical Year | 2021-2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
| By Type |
|
| By Flavor |
|
| By Distribution Channel |
|
| Regional Insights |
|
Artisanal gelato holds the dominant share in the global market due to its appeal to consumers seeking high-quality, handcrafted, and unique frozen desserts. Its production often focuses on using natural ingredients, resulting in a richer, smoother texture and more intense flavors compared to mass-produced alternatives.
This segment has grown significantly, driven by the increasing demand for premium, authentic products, particularly in regions like Europe and North America. Artisanal gelato is often perceived as a healthier, more authentic alternative to traditional ice cream, which contributes to its rising popularity in the global market.
Fruit-flavored gelato remains the dominant flavor in the global market, catering to consumers looking for refreshing, natural, and lighter alternatives to traditional cream-based desserts. Popular flavors like strawberry, mango, and lemon are favorites among health-conscious buyers, with many fruit-based gelatos containing fresh, real fruit ingredients.
This flavor segment appeals particularly to those seeking dairy-free, vegan, or lower-calorie options, contributing to its growth. The rise of health trends and the desire for fresher, less processed desserts has solidified fruit-flavored gelato as a leading choice in the global market, especially in warmer climates.
Supermarkets and hypermarkets dominate the distribution of gelato due to their wide reach and convenience. These retail formats provide easy access to a range of gelato products, including both artisanal and packaged varieties, catering to a broad customer base. Consumers can purchase gelato in bulk or in single-serve portions, often at competitive prices.
With the growth of private label offerings and increased consumer demand for convenience, supermarkets and hypermarkets remain the dominant channel, especially as they offer a wide variety of flavors and brands. This channel is particularly strong in developed markets with established retail infrastructures.
North America is emerging as a significantly growing region in the global gelato market, fueled by changing consumer preferences and an increasing inclination toward artisanal desserts. The region's growing demand for premium, healthier alternatives to traditional ice cream has made gelato a standout choice. According to the International Dairy Foods Association, the U.S. alone accounts for over $13 billion in frozen dessert sales annually, with gelato contributing an increasing share.
The trend is further supported by the rising popularity of unique and natural flavors. Brands like Talenti, a leading gelato company in North America, offer diverse options such as Mediterranean Mint and Sicilian Pistachio, attracting health-conscious consumers with promises of fewer calories and lower fat compared to traditional ice cream. Additionally, gelato shops, such as GROM, continue expanding in urban hubs like New York and Los Angeles, catering to the growing appetite for authentic Italian desserts.
Another contributing factor is the expansion of plant-based gelato offerings to cater to vegan and lactose-intolerant consumers. Companies like Van Leeuwen have introduced dairy-free gelato lines made with oat milk, further broadening the consumer base. The combination of health awareness, flavor innovation, and targeted product expansions makes North America a pivotal growth driver in the global gelato market.
