New research from Nestlé Professional offers a deep dive into the ever-evolving landscape of ice cream preferences. With ice cream being the UK’s second most popular dessert when eating out, with a current market value of £605m in eating out, The Inside Scoop report provides valuable insights for consumers. It highlights emerging trends and provides operators with top tips to help maximize their presence in the classroom.
This report is based on a survey of 1,007 consumers. The report examines the current situation of the ice cream market, finds out what is behind the growth and what consumers eat and where.
A key consideration reveals that consumers want personalization. Nine out of ten (89%) say they like to decorate their ice cream, with flavored sauces (45%) and chocolate chips (34%) being the most popular options.
These preferences coincide with how people like their ice cream. The classic ice cream options cone-shaped (52%) or ice cream scooped into a bowl (47%) are the most popular serving styles. In addition, vanilla (39%), strawberry (29%) and chocolate (29%) are among the top flavors chosen by consumers. This shows the popularity of these classic options as they serve as a versatile base for adding personal toppings and flavors.
Danielle Griffiths, Nestlé Professional’s dessert category manager, says:
“The influence of brand power in the ice cream category is undeniable, as 63% of Britons said they were willing to buy a familiar brand. We are dedicated to infusing our iconic confectionery brands into desserts outside the home. Given the popularity of ice cream among consumers, we sought to delve into how operators can optimize this category and push boundaries to create innovative and exciting experiences with popular brands such as KITKAT® and AERO®.
“Ice cream is not just a treat; it’s about the shared moments it creates. As group consumption surpasses solo enjoyment, ice cream has become a catalyst for social connections. This highlights the importance of operators offering customers the opportunity to customize their frozen treats. By offering a diverse selection of toppings and sauces alongside the classic flavors, users can ensure that there is something for everyone.
“Toppings offer a great option to delight consumers and charge a premium. In fact, we found that the main reasons why people would pay more for ice cream when they eat it
out is if it’s something they can’t create at home (30%), and its presentation/appearance (29%).
“The report’s findings are perfectly suited to the product launch of the new KITKAT® waffle sauce. With a delicious combination of chocolate and waffle, two popular ice cream toppings, the squeezable sauce allows users to effortlessly add a variety of desserts to their menus.