Ice Cream Hits a Record High of 663.1 Billion Yen | Value Grew Even as Volume Fell

Ice cream becomes a topic of conversation whenever hot summers continue. The industry group Japan Ice Cream Association has released sales results for ice cream products in fiscal 2025, based on manufacturer shipments.

Sales value reached a new record high

According to the association, sales value in fiscal 2025 was 663.1 billion yen, 102.8% of the previous year, setting a new record high. Ice cream was once a “summer sweet,” but it has now become established as a dessert enjoyed regardless of the season.

Ice cream products in fiscal 2025, based on manufacturer shipments
・Sales value: 663.1 billion yen (102.8% year on year, a record high)
・Sales volume: 915,645 kiloliters (97.8% year on year)

Volume fell, while value rose

On the other hand, sales volume was 915,645 kiloliters, remaining at 97.8% of the previous year. As background to the increase in value despite the decrease in volume, the association points to the rollout of high-value-added products and the impact of price revisions. As costs for raw materials and logistics rise, the consumer shift toward “choosing something a little better” also seems to be reflected in the numbers.

Within the overall trend in sweets

The movement in ice cream also overlaps with the overall confectionery market. For the domestic confectionery market, including wagashi, see A Land of Sweets Worth 3,878.5 Billion Yen and for changes in household food expenses, see The dining table with an Engel’s coefficient of 28.6% we introduce it in. The trend among consumers around the world to choose “less, but better” is this article also summarized in.

Reference: Japan Ice Cream Association

—The Value Village Editorial Team