The Russian ice cream market experienced a slight contraction in the first eight months of 2025, with production falling by 0.4% compared to the same period in 2024, amounting to 454.5 thousand tons. This decline occurred despite a strong start to the year, with the downturn attributed to a combination of factors including high interest rates, cool spring-summer weather, and significant inventory levels.
A notable shift in production capacities is underway across the country. The Central Federal District, the historical leader, saw output decrease by 7.2%, while the Northwestern Federal District recorded a massive 57.5% production increase, largely due to the transfer of part of the “Iceberry” company’s capacities from the CFD to Vologda in the NWFD.
Despite the production dip, consumer prices have risen sharply. From January to August 2025, manufacturers increased wholesale prices by 16.9%, and retail prices followed suit, rising by 17%. By August, the average retail price per kilogram of ice cream had reached 894 rubles. Industry experts point to price volatility for key raw materials like dairy, chocolate, and fruit fillers, alongside rising costs for wages, logistics, and packaging, as the main drivers behind this inflation.