Nestlé Professional reveals the ‘inside scoop’ on ice-cream personalisation

New research from Nestlé Professional has discovered that 89% of consumers want their ice-cream personalised.

 

Based on a survey of 1,007 consumers, the supplier’s ‘The Inside Scoop’ report looks at what is driving growth in the ice-cream market as well as providing tips for operators to help maximise their presence.

 

The analysis outlined that flavoured sauces (45% of respondents) and chocolate pieces (34%) were the most popular choices.

 

Danielle Griffiths, dessert category lead at Nestlé Professional, said: “Toppings provide a great option to delight consumers and to charge a premium. In fact, we found that the main reasons that people would pay more for an ice-cream when eating out is if it’s something they can’t create at home (30%), and its presentation/appearance (29%).”

 

Ice-cream is the UK’s second favourite dessert when eating out and has a market value of £605m out of home.

 

Ice-cream in a cone (52%) or in a bowl (47%) were the top serving styles, with vanilla (39%), strawberry (29%) and chocolate (29%) the favourite flavours chosen by consumers. The report said that classic options serve as versatile bases for adding personal toppings and flavours.

 

Branding also found favour, with 63% of Brits expressing a willingness to purchase a familiar ice-cream brand.

 

Griffiths identified that ice-cream consumed within a group surpassed solo enjoyment of the sweet treat, becoming a catalyst for social connections. She added: “This emphasises the importance for operators to provide customers with the option to customise their frozen treats. By offering a diverse selection of toppings and sauces alongside classic flavours, operators can ensure that there’s something for everyone.”

 

‘The Inside Scoop’ report is available for operators to download here.