The U.S. gelato market is anticipated to reach USD 5.04 billion by 2033 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 4.2% from 2025 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Driven by rising consumer preference for artisanal and premium frozen desserts prepared with authentic Italian-style formulations. Consumers perceive gelato as a refined alternative to traditional ice cream due to its dense texture, natural ingredients, and rich flavor profile. The increasing focus on health and wellness has led to a shift toward low-sugar, dairy-free, and vegan options that align with balanced and sustainable lifestyles. Younger and urban consumers are at the forefront of this shift, seeking indulgent desserts that meet nutritional expectations.
Producers are addressing these evolving preferences by reformulating products with clean-label ingredients, natural sweeteners, and functional bases such as almond, oat, and coconut milk. Leading brands are expanding their portfolios to capture the growing demand for dairy-free and vegan desserts. For instance, in January 2024, Unilever launched a dairy-free gelato range under its Talenti brand in the United States, featuring cashew butter and oat milk, to address rising interest in plant-based indulgence. The expansion of boutique gelato parlors and franchise cafes across major cities has enhanced accessibility and strengthened product visibility across both retail and foodservice channels.
Leading players, such as Amorino, G.S. Gelato & Desserts, Inc., and Gelatissimo, are expanding their presence through new store openings and enhancements to their manufacturing capacity to meet the rising demand. With increasing emphasis on authenticity, health-conscious indulgence, and premium quality, the U.S. gelato market is expected to maintain strong growth over the forecast period.
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The dairy-based segment dominated the source category, accounting for an 87.2% share in 2024, owing to strong consumer preference for authentic Italian-style gelato made with milk and cream that delivers rich flavor and smooth texture.
The plant-based segment is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period, supported by rising demand for vegan, lactose-free, and environmentally sustainable dessert options.
The chocolate segment held the largest market share in 2024, due to its classic profile and versatility for both traditional and innovative offerings.
The fruits and berries segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR, driven by increasing consumer interest in naturally flavored, lower-fat desserts made with real fruit purees.
The artisanal gelato segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024, driven by rising consumer preference for handcrafted, small-batch desserts emphasizing freshness and authenticity.
The industrial gelato segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period, supported by large-scale manufacturing, consistent quality standards, and widespread retail distribution networks across the U.S.
The take-home packaging segment held the largest revenue share in 2024 due to the growing trend of at-home indulgence and the convenience of multi-serve gelato tubs for families.
The impulse packaging segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period, fueled by increasing demand for single-serve and on-the-go dessert options among younger consumers.
The retail distribution channel dominated the market in 2024, driven by strong consumer preference for in-store experiences offering freshly prepared gelato and customization options.
The food service distribution channel is projected to witness significant growth over the forecast period, driven by the expansion of cafes, dessert bars, and boutique eateries is increasing demand for gelato as a premium, experiential dessert option.
Key players operating in the U.S. gelato market include Nestle S.A., Unilever PLC, Baskin-Robbins, Inc., G.S. Gelato & Desserts, Inc., Amorino, Gelatissimo, and Uli’s Gelato.
For instance, in October 2024, Amorino expanded its presence in the United States with the opening of a new gelato boutique in Downtown St. Petersburg, Florida, strengthening its footprint in the U.S. gelato industry.
Grand View Research has segmented the U.S. gelato market on the basis of source, flavor, production method, packaging and distribution channel:
U.S. Gelato Source Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Dairy-based
Plant-based
U.S. Gelato Flavor Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Vanilla
Chocolate
Fruits & Berries
Nuts
Others
U.S. Gelato Production Method Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Industrial Gelato
Artisanal Gelato
U.S. Gelato Packaging Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Impulse packaging
Take-home packaging
U.S. Gelato Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Retail
Online
Offline
Food service
List of Key Players in the U.S. Gelato Market
Nestle S.A.
Unilever PLC
Baskin-Robbins, Inc.
G.S. Gelato & Desserts, Inc.
Uli’s Gelato
Amorino
Gelatissimo
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