Key Insights
The South American ice cream market, valued at $7,353.49 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by rising disposable incomes, increasing urbanization, and a preference for convenient and indulgent treats. The market is segmented by type (Impulse Ice Cream, Take-home Ice Cream, Artisanal Ice Cream) and distribution channel (Hypermarket/Supermarket, Convenience Store, Specialty Stores, Others). Brazil and Argentina represent the largest markets within the region, contributing significantly to the overall market size. The growth is further fueled by the introduction of innovative flavors and healthier options catering to evolving consumer preferences. Major players like Unilever, Nestlé, Arcor, and Grupo Bimbo dominate the market through established brand recognition and extensive distribution networks. However, the market also faces challenges such as price sensitivity among consumers and increasing competition from local and regional brands. The continued expansion of modern retail formats and the rising popularity of online grocery delivery services are anticipated to present significant opportunities for growth in the coming years. A projected CAGR of 1.50% suggests a moderate but consistent expansion, indicating a stable and maturing market with robust potential for players who effectively adapt to consumer demands and distribution shifts. The artisanal ice cream segment is expected to witness higher growth rates than other segments due to the increasing demand for premium and unique products.
The forecast period (2025-2033) anticipates continued expansion, with growth potentially exceeding the CAGR of 1.5% in years with heightened consumer spending and successful product launches. Competition is expected to remain intense, with established multinational companies leveraging their brand equity while local and regional players capitalize on regional preferences and cost advantages. Growth strategies will likely focus on product diversification, targeted marketing campaigns, and the strategic expansion of distribution networks to reach a wider consumer base across various socioeconomic segments. The market's future will be influenced by macroeconomic factors such as inflation and economic growth, as well as the ongoing evolution of consumer tastes and preferences for ice cream products.
South American Ice Cream Market: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This dynamic report provides a thorough analysis of the South American ice cream market, offering invaluable insights for businesses, investors, and stakeholders seeking to understand this lucrative and rapidly evolving sector. Covering the period from 2019 to 2033, with a focus on 2025, this report leverages extensive data and expert analysis to illuminate key trends, opportunities, and challenges. The market is projected to reach xx Million by 2033, presenting significant growth potential.

South American Ice Cream Market Market Structure & Competitive Landscape
The South American ice cream market exhibits a moderately concentrated structure, with several multinational giants alongside prominent regional players. Unilever, through its Kibon brand, Nestlé (including Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream), Arcor, and Colombina SA, hold significant market share, driving innovation and shaping competitive dynamics. The market concentration ratio (CR4) for 2025 is estimated at xx%, reflecting the influence of these major players.
- Innovation Drivers: The market is characterized by continuous innovation in flavors, product formats (e.g., impulse ice cream, take-home tubs), and packaging, driven by evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements.
- Regulatory Impacts: Varying regulatory frameworks across South American countries influence product standards, labeling requirements, and distribution channels, presenting both challenges and opportunities.
- Product Substitutes: Frozen yogurt, fruit-based desserts, and other frozen treats pose some level of competitive pressure, albeit limited due to the established preference for ice cream.
- End-User Segmentation: The market caters to a diverse range of consumers, from children and young adults to families and older generations, with varying consumption patterns and preferences.
- M&A Trends: The South American ice cream market has witnessed a moderate level of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) activity in recent years, with larger players strategically acquiring smaller, regional brands to expand their market reach and product portfolios. The total value of M&A transactions in the period 2019-2024 is estimated at xx Million.
South American Ice Cream Market Market Trends & Opportunities
The South American ice cream market exhibits robust growth potential, driven by rising disposable incomes, increasing urbanization, and a growing preference for convenient and indulgent treats. The market size experienced a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024), and is projected to maintain a CAGR of xx% during the forecast period (2025-2033), reaching an estimated market value of xx Million by 2033. Market penetration rates vary across countries, with higher rates observed in more developed urban areas. Technological shifts, including advancements in production processes, packaging, and distribution, are enhancing efficiency and product offerings. Consumer preferences are shifting towards healthier options (e.g., low-fat, organic) and premium, artisanal ice cream, creating niche market opportunities. Competitive dynamics are characterized by intense rivalry among established players and the emergence of smaller, specialized brands.

Dominant Markets & Segments in South American Ice Cream Market
Brazil represents the largest market within South America, contributing xx% to the total regional market value in 2025. Other significant markets include Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico.
Dominant Segments:
- Type: Take-home ice cream holds the largest market share (xx%), followed by impulse ice cream (xx%) and artisanal ice cream (xx%).
- Distribution Channel: Hypermarkets/supermarkets dominate the distribution landscape (xx%), with convenience stores and specialty stores also playing significant roles.
Key Growth Drivers:
- Brazil: Robust economic growth, expanding middle class, and well-established retail infrastructure.
- Argentina: Strong consumer demand for premium ice cream and a growing artisanal ice cream segment.
- Colombia: Increasing urbanization and rising disposable incomes are fueling market expansion.
South American Ice Cream Market Product Analysis
Product innovation is a key driver of market growth, with companies constantly introducing new flavors, formats, and healthier options to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Technological advancements in production and packaging, such as improved freezing techniques and eco-friendly materials, enhance product quality and sustainability. The market sees a clear trend towards premiumization, with artisanal ice cream and novel flavor combinations gaining popularity. These innovations aim to differentiate products and cater to diverse consumer preferences, fostering competitiveness.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in South American Ice Cream Market
Key Drivers:
- Rising disposable incomes and urbanization are fueling demand for convenient and indulgent treats.
- Growing popularity of premium and artisanal ice cream.
- The expansion of modern retail formats (hypermarkets, supermarkets) facilitates wider product availability.
- Technological advancements in production and distribution enhance efficiency and product quality.
Challenges:
- Economic volatility and currency fluctuations in some South American countries impact consumer spending and profitability.
- Supply chain disruptions and fluctuations in raw material prices pose challenges to production and pricing.
- Intense competition among established players and emerging brands necessitates continuous innovation and differentiation.
Growth Drivers in the South American Ice Cream Market Market
The increasing adoption of e-commerce platforms for ice cream sales presents a significant growth opportunity, particularly in urban areas with robust internet penetration. Government initiatives promoting the growth of the food processing industry also contribute positively to the market's expansion.
Challenges Impacting South American Ice Cream Market Growth
Regulatory hurdles, varying across countries, regarding food safety and labeling requirements can impact market expansion. Supply chain inefficiencies and logistical challenges in some regions, especially regarding cold-chain maintenance, can affect product quality and distribution.
Key Players Shaping the South American Ice Cream Market Market
- Unilever
- Colombina SA
- Arcor
- Frutos Do Brasil
- Heladeria Grido
- Nestle
- Kibon (a brand of Unilever)
- Grupo Bimbo
- Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream (a division of Nestlé)
- Arcor S A I C
- Cacau Show
Significant South American Ice Cream Market Industry Milestones
- 2020: Unilever launches a new line of organic ice cream in Brazil.
- 2021: Arcor expands its distribution network into new regions of Argentina.
- 2022: Nestle acquires a smaller artisanal ice cream brand in Colombia.
- 2023: Increased adoption of online ice cream delivery platforms across major South American cities.
- 2024: Colombina SA introduces innovative packaging reducing its environmental footprint.
Future Outlook for South American Ice Cream Market Market
The South American ice cream market is poised for continued growth, driven by sustained economic development, evolving consumer preferences, and ongoing product innovation. Opportunities lie in expanding into underserved markets, leveraging e-commerce channels, and focusing on premium and healthy options. The market's future hinges on adapting to changing consumer needs and navigating potential challenges related to economic volatility and supply chain management.
South American Ice Cream Market Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Impulse Ice Cream
- 1.2. Take-home Ice Cream
- 1.3. Artisanal Ice Cream
-
2. Distribution Channel
- 2.1. Hypermarket/Supermarket
- 2.2. Convenience Store
- 2.3. Speciality Stores
- 2.4. Others
-
3. Geography
-
3.1. South America
- 3.1.1. Brazil
- 3.1.2. Argentina
- 3.1.3. Rest of South America
-
3.1. South America
South American Ice Cream Market Segmentation By Geography
-
1. South America
- 1.1. Brazil
- 1.2. Argentina
- 1.3. Rest of South America

South American Ice Cream Market REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 1.50% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. Increasing demand for meat alternatives
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. Presence of numerous alternatives in the plant proteins
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Active Participation of Medium and Small Enterprises in Brazil
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. South American Ice Cream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Impulse Ice Cream
- 5.1.2. Take-home Ice Cream
- 5.1.3. Artisanal Ice Cream
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Distribution Channel
- 5.2.1. Hypermarket/Supermarket
- 5.2.2. Convenience Store
- 5.2.3. Speciality Stores
- 5.2.4. Others
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Geography
- 5.3.1. South America
- 5.3.1.1. Brazil
- 5.3.1.2. Argentina
- 5.3.1.3. Rest of South America
- 5.3.1. South America
- 5.4. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.4.1. South America
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Brazil South American Ice Cream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7. Argentina South American Ice Cream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8. Rest of South America South American Ice Cream Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9. Competitive Analysis
- 9.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 9.2. Company Profiles
- 9.2.1 Unilever
- 9.2.1.1. Overview
- 9.2.1.2. Products
- 9.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.2 Colombina SA
- 9.2.2.1. Overview
- 9.2.2.2. Products
- 9.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.3 Arcor
- 9.2.3.1. Overview
- 9.2.3.2. Products
- 9.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.4 Frutos Do Brasil
- 9.2.4.1. Overview
- 9.2.4.2. Products
- 9.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.5 Heladeria Grido
- 9.2.5.1. Overview
- 9.2.5.2. Products
- 9.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.6 Nestle*List Not Exhaustive
- 9.2.6.1. Overview
- 9.2.6.2. Products
- 9.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.7 Kibon (a brand of Unilever)
- 9.2.7.1. Overview
- 9.2.7.2. Products
- 9.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.8 Grupo Bimbo
- 9.2.8.1. Overview
- 9.2.8.2. Products
- 9.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.9 Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream (a division of Nestlé)
- 9.2.9.1. Overview
- 9.2.9.2. Products
- 9.2.9.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.9.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.9.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.10 Arcor S A I C
- 9.2.10.1. Overview
- 9.2.10.2. Products
- 9.2.10.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.10.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.10.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.11 Cacau Show
- 9.2.11.1. Overview
- 9.2.11.2. Products
- 9.2.11.3. SWOT Analysis
- 9.2.11.4. Recent Developments
- 9.2.11.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 9.2.1 Unilever
List of Figures
- Figure 1: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: South American Ice Cream Market Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Brazil South American Ice Cream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Brazil South American Ice Cream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Argentina South American Ice Cream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Argentina South American Ice Cream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Rest of South America South American Ice Cream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Rest of South America South American Ice Cream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Distribution Channel 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Geography 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: South American Ice Cream Market Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: South American Ice Cream Market Volume K Tons Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Brazil South American Ice Cream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Brazil South American Ice Cream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Argentina South American Ice Cream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Argentina South American Ice Cream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Rest of South America South American Ice Cream Market Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Rest of South America South American Ice Cream Market Volume (K Tons) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the South American Ice Cream Market?
The projected CAGR is approximately 1.50%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the South American Ice Cream Market?
Key companies in the market include Unilever, Colombina SA, Arcor, Frutos Do Brasil, Heladeria Grido, Nestle*List Not Exhaustive, Kibon (a brand of Unilever) , Grupo Bimbo , Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream (a division of Nestlé), Arcor S A I C , Cacau Show.
3. What are the main segments of the South American Ice Cream Market?
The market segments include Type, Distribution Channel, Geography.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 7,353.49 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
Increasing demand for meat alternatives.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Active Participation of Medium and Small Enterprises in Brazil.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
Presence of numerous alternatives in the plant proteins.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
The launch of new products and flavors
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 3800, USD 4500, and USD 5800 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million and volume, measured in K Tons.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "South American Ice Cream Market," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the South American Ice Cream Market report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the South American Ice Cream Market?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the South American Ice Cream Market, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence