General Scenario and Consumption
In 2024, sales of artisanal gelato in Europe grew by 1%, with total revenue reaching €11 billion compared to €10.9 billion in 2023. The leading markets, Italy and Germany, remained stable, while other European countries experienced more marked growth. However, several factors influenced the sector, including adverse spring weather and a decline in summer tourism in key areas.
In terms of consumption, artisanal gelato remains a favorite choice among both locals and tourists, despite the effects of climate changes and fluctuations in tourism. Tourism accounts for approximately 15% of total gelato consumption in Italy, underscoring the strong connection between the tourism industry and artisanal gelato shops.
Prices and Economic Trends
Following years of significant increases, the rise in artisanal gelato prices stabilized in 2024. Currently, the average cost per kilogram ranges between €20 and €28, with peaks of €32 in some shops. The average price for a small cup or cone is €2.7, though it can reach €5 in the historic centers of Italy's main tourist cities.
Key factors contributing to price increases in recent years include:
- Rising costs of raw materials, such as cocoa, sugar, and fruit.
- Growing demand fueled by tourism and domestic consumption.
- Increased labor costs and difficulties in finding skilled personnel.
- Higher logistics and energy costs.
Despite economic challenges, the sector remains competitive thanks to the high quality of artisanal products and consumer appreciation, which continue to make artisanal gelato a symbol of Italian excellence worldwide.
The Role of Tourism
Tourism is a key driver of artisanal gelato consumption, accounting for 15% of total consumption in Italy. However, the summer of 2024 saw disappointing domestic tourism numbers, with arrivals down by 3.6% and overnight stays decreasing by 1.4% compared to 2023. Conversely, international tourism showed positive signs, with arrivals up by 1.2% and overnight stays increasing by 3%, reaffirming the international appeal of Italian gelato.
Spring's poor weather in some areas, extreme heatwaves, and economic instability negatively impacted domestic tourism, while foreign visitors helped sustain sales in gelaterias in major tourist destinations.
Labor Market Challenges
A major issue for the sector is a shortage of workers, which has troubled many gelaterias, particularly during peak months. The difficulty in finding qualified staff has led many businesses to reduce opening hours, negatively impacting revenues and customer satisfaction.
To address this challenge, many gelaterias are reevaluating their workforce management strategies, focusing on staff retention and improved working conditions. However, the vicious cycle of reduced hours and diminished service quality complicates finding a quick resolution.
The Influence of Climate
Climate conditions significantly affected gelato consumption in 2024. Italy saw marked differences across regions:
- Northern Italy: Above-average rainfall and cooler temperatures reduced consumption, particularly during midday hours.
- Central Italy: Variable weather led to inconsistent sales.
- Southern Italy: High temperatures and minimal rainfall during the year's first nine months boosted consumption, especially in tourist areas.
These climatic variations highlighted the need for gelaterias to adapt to local conditions to optimize sales.
The European Market
In Europe, 2024 saw a slight 1% growth in artisanal gelato sales, with Italy and Germany remaining the largest markets. Other countries, such as Spain, Poland, Austria, and France, saw an increase in gelaterias, contributing to the product's growing popularity.
Europe is home to approximately 65,000 gelaterias, employing 300,000 people. Sector growth has been supported by expansion into emerging markets and rising demand in countries traditionally less associated with artisanal gelato.
The Italian Market
In Italy, the sector's revenue reached nearly €3 billion in 2024, growing between 0.5% and 1% compared to 2023. The number of dedicated gelaterias remained stable at over 9,300, while patisseries and bars offering artisanal gelato added more than 39,000 outlets to the landscape.
Gelaterias in tourist cities benefited most from the increase in international tourism, with regions like Lazio (+13%), Sicily (+5%), and Campania (+3%) recording positive performances.
The Italian Supply Chain
Italy’s leadership in the artisanal gelato sector extends to producing ingredients, semi-finished products, and machinery. In 2024, the ingredients sector generated €1.1 billion in revenue, with 67% from exports. The machinery and equipment sector also showed positive signs, with a turnover of €670 million (+3% compared to 2023).
These figures underline the pivotal role of the Italian supply chain, which exceeded €4.5 billion in revenue in 2024 and provided employment for over 120,000 people.
Conclusions
The market for traditional Italian artisanal gelato remains a resilient and innovative sector, capable of adapting to economic, climatic, and social challenges. Despite difficulties related to tourism, labor shortages, and climate variations, 2024 showcased moderate growth and sustained international appeal for Italian artisanal gelato.
Looking ahead, the sector must continue focusing on quality, innovation, and sustainability to maintain its leadership position and successfully address the challenges of the coming years.