Mumbai, April 9: ColdStar Logistics, a leading temperature-controlled supply chain solutions provider, has identified a significant shift in India’s ice cream consumption trends, with premium artisanal D2C brands emerging as key growth drivers this summer season.
According to ColdStar’s warehouse and distribution data, brands such as EatNoto, Minus 30, and Skei Ice Cream are witnessing faster replenishment cycles and strong repeat-order rates, driven by their growing presence on direct-to-consumer (D2C) platforms and quick commerce channels.
Premiumisation vs Mass Market Stability
The data highlights a clear market bifurcation. While established brands like Amul and Kwality Wall’s continue to dominate in Tier II and Tier III markets due to price sensitivity, metro and Tier I cities are seeing reduced purchase frequency but higher per-transaction spending on premium artisanal products.
Rise of Protein and Health-Focused Ice Creams
A notable emerging trend is the growing demand for protein-enriched ice creams, particularly among urban, fitness-conscious consumers. Products offering 15–20g protein per serving are gaining traction, signalling a shift towards health-oriented indulgence.
Changing Consumer Preferences and Innovation
Premium brands are gaining momentum due to:
- Introduction of innovative and experimental flavours
- Focus on clean-label, low-sugar, and health-centric products
- Enhanced packaging and branding appeal
Unique offerings such as paan-flavoured ice creams, protein-infused dessert pints, and novelty-shaped packs are capturing consumer attention, while regional flavours like filter coffee, coconut jaggery, and jackfruit are seeing pan-India demand.
City-Wise Demand Trends
- Mumbai leads in overall volume, supported by strong local brands like Naturals Ice Cream
- Bengaluru outpaces Delhi in premium SKU movement
- Delhi NCR sees intense competition across segments
- Chennai shows strong regional brand performance
- Hyderabad and Pune are emerging as fast-growing hubs
Premium Pricing Becomes Mainstream
Price points between ₹150 – ₹400 per unit, once considered niche, are now becoming mainstream among urban consumers, reflecting a broader premiumisation trend in the category.
Operational Challenges in Peak Summer
ColdStar highlighted the “triple pressure” faced during peak summer:
- Demand surges of 3–4x
- Extreme temperatures reaching 42–46°C
- Increased risk of power fluctuations
To ensure product quality, the company follows strict cold chain protocols, including storage at –18°C to –22°C, pre-cooled transport, real-time IoT temperature monitoring, and zero disruption across the supply chain.
Sameer Varma, Executive Director, ColdStar Logistics, said,
“Our data shows a clear bifurcation—mass brands lead in volume, while premium brands lead in velocity. The most interesting shift is how quick-commerce is democratizing distribution for small-batch artisanal producers.”
