Do you love ice cream? If so, you’re not alone. Ice cream is a popular treat enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
But what types of consumers buy ice cream? And why do they buy it?
In this article, we will take a look at the target market for ice cream and explore some of the reasons why people enjoy this tasty snack.
We will also look at some of the different types of ice cream that are available on the market today.
So, if you’re interested in learning more about this delicious dessert and the market for it, keep reading!
Who are the main consumers of ice cream?
According to the International Dairy Foods Association, in 2020, ice cream makers in the United States produced 1 billion gallons of ice cream with the average American consuming about 23 pounds of ice cream and similar frozen deserts each year.
It’s no wonder that ice cream remains a popular and universally loved, cold, sweet treat.
There are many different flavors and varieties of ice cream to choose from, so there is something for everyone.
Ice cream is a popular snack and dessert choice because it is affordable, tasty, and easy to prepare. It can be enjoyed by itself or with toppings like sprinkles, chocolate chips, or whipped cream.
People purchase ice cream for many reasons including pleasure, convenience, and socialization.
Ice cream shops are often popular gathering places for friends and family. Ice cream is a fun, indulgent food that everyone can enjoy.
Ice Cream Market Segmentation
The Ice Cream Market can be segmented in a few different ways including:
- by flavor and texture
- by type of ingredients (dairy or non-dairy)
- by the age of the consumer (children, adults, seniors)
- by occasion (i.e. snack, dessert, special occasions)
Ice Cream Market Segmentation based on Flavor and Texture
There are many different flavors of ice cream available on the market, and each flavor has its own target market. For example, vanilla is typically favored by adults, while chocolate is more popular with children.
According to Frozen Dessert Supplies, the favorite ice cream flavors in the United States are Vanilla, Chocolate and Cookies & Cream.
Ice creams also come with different textures. Some people prefer smooth and creamy ice cream, while others prefer an icy or crunchy texture.
Ice Cream Market Segmentation based on the type of ingredients (dairy Vs non-dairy)
Most ice creams are made from dairy milk – that is milk from cows.
But there are two segments of the Ice Cream Market that will or cannot consume dairy milk. These are people who are Vegans and/or those that are Lactose intolerant.
The Vegan target market for ice cream comprises those who do not consume any product that includes an ingredient from an animal. This would include milk, eggs, and gelatin which are all common ingredients in ice cream. There are a few alternatives to dairy that vegan ice cream can be made from. These include soy milk, almond milk, rice milk, oat milk and coconut milk.
People who are Lactose intolerant cannot consume products that contain lactose. Lactose is the sugar found in dairy milk. This target market for ice cream has been growing in recent years as people are becoming more aware of their lactose intolerance.
Vegans and Lactose-intolerant people constitute a market segment that has a need to not consume dairy products.
Such needs-based segmentation allows the ice cream industry to serve these growing segments with products that uniquely satisfy their distinct needs.
Ice Cream Market Segmentation based on the Consumer’s Age
The target market for ice cream can also be segmented based on the age of the consumer, with children, adults and seniors as the main groups.
Children are typically drawn to brightly colored packaging, and flavors that are sweet or fruity. Products for children also have a lower price point than products targeting adults.
Adults are more likely to buy premium brands and flavors of ice cream and are willing to pay more for them.
Seniors generally prefer simpler flavors and smaller pack sizes.
By understanding the target markets for ice cream, companies can create ice creams that appeal to specific demographics, increasing their chances of success in the marketplace.
Ice Cream Market Segmentation based on Occasion
Finally, the Ice Cream Market can be segmented based on the occasion for which it is purchased. Some people buy ice cream as a special treat, while others purchase it as a regular part of their diet.
The way the ice cream is packaged and priced can vary depending on the occasion for which it is being marketed.
For example, people who buy ice cream as a special treat are likely to be more interested in premium flavors and brands. They may also be willing to pay more for their ice cream.
Conversely, people who purchase ice cream as part of their regular diet are typically looking for affordable options that fit their budget. These people might also be open to ice cream alternatives like frozen yogurt which can sometimes be healthier than ice cream.
Certainly, the ice cream purchased as dessert for a wedding can be priced and marketed differently than ice cream that is meant to sit in the basement freezer.
Ice cream manufacturers know how to combine occasion-based segmentation with price-based segmentation to maximize profits often selling the same ice cream to different segments just with different packaging (and different prices, of course).
Summary
Ice cream is a highly popular snack and 1 billion gallons of it are produced in the United States each year.
The target market for ice cream can be segmented in a variety of ways, including by texture, ingredients, age group, and occasion.
Understanding these different segments allows companies to create products that appeal to the needs of each segment, increasing their chances of success in the marketplace.
By using different types of segmentation in tandem, for instance, occasion-based together with price-based segmentation, manufacturers can often sell the same ice cream to different target markets at different price points. This allows them to maximize profits while catering to the needs of all their consumers.