Russian Ice Cream Market in 2024–2025: Key Trends, Prospects, and Recommendations for Manufacturers

The Russian ice cream market is showing steady growth in 2024–2025 and has potential for further expansion.

In the current economic realities and changing consumer preferences, it is important for manufacturers to take into account key trends and industry prospects in order to adjust and optimize their strategic decisions.

Current status and results for 2024

According to the results of the first half of 2024, the Russian ice cream market grew by 7.2%, reaching a total volume of 525 thousand tons of products. The main growth drivers were the increase in demand for the premium segment and the expansion of the range of products with improved taste and functional characteristics.

Key market players such as Iceberry, Chistaya Liniya, Unilever and Russkiy Kholod continue to increase production capacity and product range. At the same time, small and medium enterprises are actively developing the craft and organic ice cream niches, which also contributes to the growth of the industry.

Forecasts and Prospects for 2025

Industry experts predict further growth of the ice cream market in Russia in 2025 at the level of 6-8%, with the main emphasis being on innovative products and the creation of unique recipes. Among the promising product niches are:

• premium and super-premium ice cream with natural ingredients and minimal additives;

• functional products enriched with vitamins, probiotics and plant components;

• low-calorie and lactose-free options to meet the needs of healthy consumers.

In addition, analysts from Milknews.ru note that significant growth potential is associated with the expansion of the geography of ice cream sales in the regions of Russia, where the level of consumption is still below the Russian average.

Trends influencing market development

Several key trends will dominate the Russian ice cream market in the coming years.

1. Sustainable production and eco-friendliness of packaging

Consumers are increasingly paying attention to environmental friendliness and sustainability of production. This is reflected in the growing demand for biodegradable packaging and locally produced products with a minimal ecological footprint.

2. Development of online sales channels

The shift in sales towards online retail will continue. Manufacturers should consider the need to strengthen their presence in the digital environment, including marketplaces and direct online sales.

3. Import substitution of ingredients and equipment

In the context of sanctions pressure, localization of supplies of ingredients and equipment is becoming important. Russian ice cream producers are actively looking for local suppliers of raw materials and components, which opens up prospects for domestic manufacturers of equipment and ingredients.

Recommendations for manufacturers and suppliers

To successfully develop a business in the Russian ice cream market in 2024–2025, producers should focus on the following key factors:

• investments in innovative technologies and the development of new recipes, including the introduction of automated production lines and the creation of unique flavor combinations;

• active promotion of products through digital channels (marketplaces, social networks, online platforms), with a focus on personalized marketing and targeted advertising;

• attentive attitude to environmental and sustainable production trends, use of biodegradable packaging and environmentally friendly raw materials, implementation of energy-saving technologies;

• conducting regular market monitoring, studying the dynamics of consumer preferences and the competitive environment, including analysis of seasonal fluctuations in demand.

At the same time, manufacturers should pay special attention to forming long-term partnerships with local suppliers of ingredients and equipment, which will significantly reduce dependence on imports and stabilize logistics chains in the long term.

Professional exhibitions as a tool for business development

Participation in key industry exhibitions and events is of particular importance for manufacturers and suppliers in this market. Events such as the International DairyTech Exhibition allow you to demonstrate new production products, exchange experience with leading industry experts, and establish direct contacts with potential partners and buyers.

Thus, for representatives of manufacturing and supplying companies, participation in exhibitions becomes an effective tool for expanding business, increasing brand awareness and strengthening market positions.

The Russian ice cream market in 2024–2025 offers wide opportunities for manufacturers and suppliers who are able to adapt to new challenges and trends. Today, it is more important than ever to be an active participant in the industry community, to demonstrate your technological achievements and innovative developments at specialized exhibitions and forums. Manufacturers and suppliers are encouraged to actively participate in specialized events, presenting the latest solutions and products, thereby strengthening business ties and creating a reliable foundation for future growth and development.

DairyTech 2026 is a concentration of opportunities for the dairy and meat processing industries.

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