03 Jul Innovation and creativity in ice cream packaging

• Current situation of the ice cream sector
• Packaging and labeling trends for ice cream
• What we do at Rieusset: innovative and sustainable packaging

Current situation of the ice cream sector 

The ice cream sector is experiencing a rebirth in modern distribution. After a slight setback in 2021, interpreted as a normalization of the post-confinement market, household consumption took off again in 2022 and during 2023. According to data from Circana (formerly Iri), ice cream sales in hypermarkets and supermarkets grew by 2.3% in 2023. This upward trend shows that the ice cream market remains strong and is adapting to the needs and preferences of consumers.

According to Alimarket’s 2023 report, the performance of the ice cream market has been uneven across categories. Individual ice creams, which represent the most consumed category, showed the best performance with a 4.2% growth in volume and almost reaching a 14% increase in value. Furthermore, the category of ice cream blocks also experienced a 1.2% growth in volume, while family tubs recorded a 1.7% decrease in physical units. This scenario evidences a growing preference for single-serve and higher value-added products.

 The ice cream sector is experiencing a growing demand for premium and healthier products (without added sugars and with more protein), driven by a more demanding and health-conscious society. This trend has led to an increase in the supply of premium ice cream and healthy options.

Packaging and labeling trends for ice cream

In response to the growing demand for individual ice cream formats, it is essential to have packaging options that not only protect the product, but also attract attention among the large ice cream offerings. To this end, many brands are opting to pack their single-serve products with flexible packaging in both monofilms and laminates, both film and paper. In the case of tubs or ice cream cones, materials such as metallized paper are used for packaging with highly attractive proposals. All these materials not only guarantee the protection and preservation of the product, but also add aesthetic value and prestige to the products.

Furthermore, labeling and packaging also play a crucial role in brand perception and sustainability. In the ice cream sector, the use of biodegradable and recyclable materials for packaging is booming. The use of paper is a growing trend. Initially used for tubs, many brands are now opting for non-metallized paper packaging for cones and even stick ice cream. This shift towards eco-friendly materials reflects a commitment by brands to sustainability and a response to the demands of a market which is increasingly more aware of the impact on the environment.

For tubs and ice cream blocks, we also manufacture single-material sleeves adaptable to any shape of container, providing an aesthetically appealing and versatile solution where the entire sleeve can be used for both nutritional and corporate messages for branding or even entertainment. In addition, if necessary, our sleeves are designed to meet the needs of protection, sustainability and aesthetics, ensuring that products reach consumers in perfect condition while projecting an image of quality and respect for the environment.

What we do at Rieusset: innovative and sustainable packaging

At Rieusset, we are at the forefront in the manufacture of these types of innovative and sustainable packaging. An outstanding example is the uncoated paper without any type of plastic or aluminum that we manufacture for Gelato Classico’s organic stick ice creams. This type of packaging not only protects the product from light, odors, humidity, etc., but also reinforces the brand’s eco-friendly image.

Via Gelato Classico

Another example of our innovation is the flexible packaging in metallized OPP for individual ice cream. We print this film using rotogravure, whereby our clients are able to give a high quality and prestigious image to their products. This is a demonstration of how our packaging solutions not only meet the highest quality standards, but also enhance the brand image. At Rieusset we advise our clients on the use of materials, inks and print finishes according to the specific needs of their product.

Innovation and creativity in ice cream packaging is essential in order to remain competitive in a constantly evolving market. At Rieusset, we are committed to excellence and sustainability, providing packaging solutions that not only protect the products they contain, but also enhance brand perception and respond to growing consumer demands. With our expertise and dedication, we continue to lead the way in creating innovative and sustainable packaging for the ice cream industry.

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