July is the busiest month for ice cream production. About 6.4 billion pounds were produced in the U.S. in 2019. Ice cream is an $11 billion industry supporting 26,000 jobs, generating $1.6 billion in wages. The average American eats ice cream at home 41 times per year. Americans over age 55 eat it 56 times annually.
Ninety-eight percent of U.S. households purchase ice cream. More is sold on Sunday than any other day. The average cow gives enough milk to make 2 gallons of ice cream daily. Vanilla is the most popular U.S. flavor. U.S. per capita consumption is 23.2 pints per year.
It costs about $0.25-$0.35 to produce an ice bag selling for $1.50-$3. Shops see fewer customers in winter. Offering seasonal flavors helps offset this. Investments to start shops are small and profits come in weeks. Most shops make their own ice cream.
Top states in production are California, Pennsylvania, Florida, Texas, and Arizona. Unilever is the world’s largest producer.
Ice cream sales soften when temperatures are extreme. To increase sales, location visibility and foot traffic are key. Ways to grow include seasonal flavors, discounts, and promotions.
What month is most ice cream sold?
July.
What season is ice cream sold the most?
Most ice cream is made March through July.