Inbound travel from the USA to Greece has been increasing in recent years. Americans, as shown by a related study by the International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA), have a particular preference for ice cream, something that Greek tourism businesses in hospitality and catering should be aware of.
The relevant study is cited in a report by the Office of Economic and Commercial Affairs in New York. Specifically, the ice cream industry in the USA has an annual turnover of over 13 billion dollars. According to the study, which involved more than 2,000 American consumers, major dairy companies, and members of the North American Ice Cream Association, the most popular flavors for producers are cookie cream, vanilla, chocolate, chocolate mint, and strawberry, while consumers rank their preferences as chocolate, cookie cream, vanilla, strawberry, and cookie with chocolate chunks.
Regarding serving format, cups lead with 37%, followed by cones at 32%. Americans’ favorite ice cream toppings are chocolate at 26%, chocolate syrup at 18%, nuts at 15%, and colorful sprinkles at 14%.
In terms of frequency, 73% of American consumers enjoy their ice cream at least once a week, with two out of three preferring to have it in the evening. Regarding packaging, 77% prefer the approximately 1,900-gram package purchased from grocery stores.
International Trends in the Ice Cream Market
Regarding global trends in the ice cream market, the IDFA study highlights the following preferences:
Increased demand for healthy options: Worldwide, low-sugar ice creams grew at an annual rate of 48% between 2015 and 2019.
Artisanal ice creams: In 2018, their market value was 6 billion dollars, with an emphasis on natural ingredients and no preservatives.
New categories: Plant-based, high-protein, and low-calorie ice creams are gaining ground.
Americans’ preference for ice cream, as well as that of travelers in general, creates significant opportunities for Greek tourism businesses, which can adapt and take advantage of this demand.
