Image Source: Indian Retailer
India’s ice cream industry is undergoing a dramatic transformation, propelled by the rapid rise of quick commerce platforms that deliver frozen treats in minutes. Here’s how this trend is rewriting the rules and fuelling unprecedented growth:
Key Highlights
Explosive Market Growth: The Indian ice cream market, valued at ₹268 billion in 2024, is projected to grow at a CAGR of 16.7% to reach ₹1,078 billion by 2033, with quick commerce as a major catalyst.
Quick Commerce Drives Demand: Platforms like Blinkit, Instamart, and Zepto are making ice cream an anytime indulgence, not just a summer treat. Instant delivery is fuelling impulse purchases and shifting consumption from traditional retail to digital channels.
Changing Consumer Habits: Gen Z and millennials are driving demand for mood-based, on-demand snacking. Ice cream is now a year-round, in-home treat, with quick commerce enabling micro-moment consumption and higher average order values.
Innovation & Premiumisation: Homegrown brands like Hocco, Go Zero, and Brooklyn Creamery are leveraging quick commerce to launch bold new formats, healthier options (low-calorie, vegan, sugar-free), and regionally inspired flavours. This innovation is attracting both consumers and venture capital.
Funding Surge: Ice cream startups have attracted record investments, with $26.5 million raised in 2024 alone. Quick commerce’s direct-to-consumer model reduces infrastructure costs and accelerates brand growth.
Omnichannel Expansion: Brands are blending physical parlours, retail, and cloud kitchens with digital-first strategies. Over 70% of retail partners reorder regularly, reflecting strong product acceptance.
Tier-2 & Tier-3 Penetration: While metros lead the quick commerce wave, hybrid models are emerging in smaller cities, blending traditional distribution with rapid delivery.
Future Outlook: With the quick commerce sector expected to hit $5 billion GMV by 2025 and ice cream consumption rising year-round, the industry is set for sustained, innovation-led growth.
Source: Sunday Mid Day
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