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As summer arrives, the demand for luxury foods like ice cream surges, becoming a popular treat enjoyed by people across India. The ice cream industry is vast, with an annual turnover of nearly 3000 crores. Revenue in the ice cream market is expected to reach US$2.32 billion in 2024, with an anticipated annual growth rate of 4.53% from 2024 to 2028. Ice creams are produced in factories and distributed nationwide through parlors and stalls. They come in various types, flavors, shapes, and sizes, such as kulfis, cones, and cornettos, catering to both young and old.

Ice cream is made primarily from milk. Worldwide, it consists of milk, cream, milk powder, sugar, and a bit of vegetable oil as a stabilizer. These ingredients are mixed, heated for pasteurization, aged at low temperatures, and then churned into ice cream. The final product can be stored at –30 degrees Celsius for up to six months. Ice cream is one of the most popular desserts globally, enjoyed by everyone. To understand more about the supply and demand of ice creams during summer, BE spoke with several individuals connected to the industry.

According to Siddhartha Das, Owner of Sub Zero Ice Creams Private Limited, the Indian ice cream industry still has a long way to go compared to the Western world. He explains, “Ice cream is primarily a summer product. Worldwide, including in India, sales peak at 100% during summer but drop to 50-60% in Europe and America during the off-season. In India, however, it drops to 30-35%. In Europe and America, the fluctuation is less pronounced. The per capita consumption of ice cream is about 30 liters in Europe and America, whereas it is only half a liter in India. This is linked to the financial condition of the population. If the per capita income in India increases, ice cream consumption will rise. People need to earn at least `25,000 to afford ice cream as a luxury item.” Despite this, Das is optimistic about the market’s future. “The ice cream industry in India is growing at a rate of 20%. In the next five years, we could reach 50% of the population. If 50% of the population can afford ice cream, the industry could grow by 30-40%. The trend over the last 20 years has been a growth rate of 10-20%. However, to compete with foreign markets, we need to improve our infrastructure for better dairy and dairy product production.”

Raj Saha of Dipanjana Stores shared his insights on ice cream sales. “The sale of ice creams in summer is higher than in other seasons at my store. The footfall for ice cream products is 80-100 customers per day during summer. Most customers buy Cornetto ice cream.” Similar views were expressed by Sayak Saha, Production Manager at Darlane Ice Cream Manufacturers. He said, “Our factory’s business peaks in April, May, and June. During these months, we produce enough ice cream to meet the high demand from dealers and distributors, ensuring no supply issues.”

Conversely, LB Gupta, an ice cream street vendor, shared a different experience. “At my stall, ice cream sales in summer are lower compared to winter, particularly during Jagadhatri Puja when sales are higher. In summer, sales are only 30%.” Gupta had set up his stall at a small fair in Rishra, where footfall was low. He noted, “Here, the numbers aren’t high during this time. I find more customers at Chiriya More in Barrackpore, where people are financially better off.”

Even Harshit Singh, a Class XI student, shared his love for ice cream. “For me, it’s a comfort food. I like to eat ice cream all year round. After a large, delicious meal, I always count on ice cream for dessert. It gives a sense of satisfaction. I enjoy all flavors and types, even orange or cola popsicles. The only flavor I dislike is fruitberry.”

These insights reflect the diverse experiences and perspectives within the ice cream industry, highlighting its growth potential and the challenges it faces.