Gelato Market To Reach $36.22 Billion By 2033 | CAGR: 5.2%

Gelato Market Growth & Trends

The global gelato market is anticipated to reach USD 36.22 billion by 2033 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 5.2% during the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. This growth is driven by rising consumer demand for artisanal and high-end desserts made with real ingredients and rich textures. Gelato is seen by consumers as a sophisticated substitute for conventional ice cream and is associated with authenticity, quality, and craftsmanship.  Manufacturers have been prompted by the increased emphasis on health and wellness to create vegan, dairy-free, and low-sugar products that offer both indulgence and nutritional balance.

Continuous product innovation and flavor diversification are key factors driving market expansion. Producers are introducing clean-label products, natural ingredients, and plant-based alternatives such as oat, almond, and coconut milk. Leading companies are expanding their product portfolios to meet the growing demand for dairy-free and vegan dessert options. For instance, in January 2024, Unilever expanded its Talenti brand portfolio with a dairy-free gelato range featuring cashew butter and oat milk, addressing the rising demand for vegan and lactose-free dessert options. The expansion of boutique gelato parlors and franchise outlets across major cities worldwide has improved accessibility and strengthened brand presence.

The growth of e-commerce platforms and the increasing popularity of take-home and impulse packaging formats drive market growth. Manufacturers are focusing on sustainable packaging materials and eco-friendly production processes to meet the preferences of environmentally conscious consumers. Leading players such as Nestle, Amorino, and G.S. Gelato & Desserts, Inc. are expanding their product portfolios and retail networks to cater to evolving consumer needs. With increasing emphasis on product authenticity, health benefits, and sensory appeal, the global gelato market continues to strengthen its position within the frozen dessert industry.

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Gelato Market Report Highlights

• The dairy-based segment dominated the source category, accounting for an 86.9% share in 2024, driven by strong consumer preference for authentic Italian-style gelato made with milk and cream, which offers rich flavor and a smooth texture.

• The plant-based segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period due to increasing demand for healthier, sustainable, and allergen-free dessert options made with almond, oat, and coconut milk.

• The vanilla segment held the largest market share in 2024, due to its classic flavor profile and widespread consumer acceptance among both traditional and modern consumers.

• The fruits and berries segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period as consumers prefer naturally flavored and lower-fat dessert options made with real fruit purees.

• The artisanal gelato segment dominated the market in 2024, driven by the growing consumer preference for handcrafted, authentic, and premium-quality desserts.

• The artisanal gelato segment is projected to expand at the fastest CAGR, supported by large-scale production efficiency, consistent quality, and extensive retail distribution networks across major markets.

• The take-home packaging segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024, driven by the increasing trend of at-home indulgence and consumer preference for multi-serve gelato tubs.

• The impulse packaging segment is expected to register the fastest CAGR over the forecast period, supported by the growing demand for on-the-go and single-serve dessert options that offer convenience and quick consumption.

• The retail distribution channel dominated the market in 2024, with consumers favoring in-store gelato experiences that emphasize freshness, authenticity, and variety.

• The food service distribution channel is projected to witness significant growth over the forecast period as consumers are seeking freshly prepared, chef-inspired, artisanal desserts, making gelato a preferred choice in dine-in formats.

• Key players operating in the global gelato market include Nestle S.A., Unilever PLC, Baskin-Robbins, Inc., G.S. Gelato & Desserts, Inc., Amorino, Gelatissimo, and Uli’s Gelato.

• In June 2025, Sammontana Italia introduced its gelato products to the U.S. market, debuting at Eataly locations in New York City. The launch featured the Barattolino tub in flavors such as Salted Caramel and Pistachio.

Gelato Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global gelato market on the basis of source, flavor, production method, packaging and distribution channel:

Gelato Source Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Dairy-based

• Plant-based

Gelato Flavor Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Vanilla

• Chocolate

• Fruits & Berries

• Nuts

• Others

Gelato Production Method Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Industrial Gelato

• Artisanal Gelato

Gelato Packaging Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Impulse packaging

• Take-home packaging

Gelato Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• Food Service

• Retail

  • Offline

  • Online

Gelato Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

• North America

  • U.S.

  • Canada

  • Mexico

• Europe

  • Germany

  • UK

  • France

  • Italy

  • Spain

• Asia Pacific

  • China

  • India

  • Japan

  • South Korea

  • Australia & New Zealand

  • Southeast Asia

• Middle East & Africa 

  • Saudi Arabia 

  • South Africa

  • UAE

• Central & South America

  • Brazil

  • Argentina

List of Key Players in the Gelato Market

• Unilever PLC

• Amorino

• Gelatissimo

• SAMMONTANA Italia S.p.A.

• Crosta Mollica

• Righteous Gelato Ltd.

• Hackney Gelato

• Baskin-Robbins, Inc.

• Uli's Gelato

• G.S. Gelato & Desserts, Inc.