Artisanal gelato as a driver of growth in the European foodservice sector
Artisanal gelato once again proves to be one of the most dynamic and resilient sectors within the European agri-food landscape. Even in a complex economic environment, the sector demonstrates solid foundations, a strong capacity for innovation, and a deep connection to the cultural and territorial values of Europe.
In 2025, the European market for Italian-style artisanal gelato reached a total value of €11.7 billion, marking a 7% increase compared to the previous year. This figure reflects not only rising demand, but also growing consumer awareness and appreciation for high-quality, artisanal, and identity-driven products.
Key figures of the European artisanal gelato market in 2025
An analysis of the main economic indicators highlights balanced and structured growth:
- +3% in sales volume
- +4% increase in average prices
- Over 66,000 points of sale active across Europe
- Approximately 300,000 employees along the entire supply chain
Among the most dynamic markets are Spain and the United Kingdom, while Italy further strengthens its position as a global leader in terms of value, professional expertise, and quality of raw materials.
Italy remains the beating heart of artisanal gelato
In Italy, artisanal gelato continues to be a cornerstone of the foodservice industry:
- 2025 turnover: over €3.1 billion (+3.5% compared to 2024)
- Average consumption: around 2 kg per capita
- Annual spending: €48 per person
A key factor is the contribution of international tourism: in cities of art and major tourist destinations, 50% to 70% of gelato shop revenues are generated by foreign visitors. Overall, the Italian artisanal gelato supply chain reached an estimated value of €4.9 billion in 2025 and employs more than 120,000 people.
The growth of artisanal gelato beyond Europe
The success of artisanal gelato extends well beyond Europe. In 2025, non-European countries recorded:
- €4.8 billion in turnover (+10% year-on-year)
- Over 45,000 points of sale (+8%)
The most active regions are the Americas, Asia, and emerging markets, where artisanal gelato is perceived as a premium product and a true expression of European know-how and the Mediterranean lifestyle.
Globally, the artisanal gelato market reached €16.5 billion in 2025, with an annual growth rate of 8.5%.
SIGEP WORLD 2026: the international stage for artisanal gelato
From 16 to 20 January 2026, SIGEP WORLD – The World Expo for Foodservice Excellence, at Rimini Fiera, will serve as the international benchmark event for the sector. Within this framework, the official countdown to the 14th edition of the European Artisanal Gelato Day will begin, scheduled for 24 March 2026.
Established by the European Parliament in 2012, this Day represents a symbolic occasion to promote artisanal gelato, its supply chain, and the professionals who make it unique.
The European competition for the Flavour of the Year 2026
One of the most anticipated highlights of SIGEP WORLD will be the European competition to select the official recipe for the Flavour of the Year 2026, promoted by Artglace.
Where: Artglace Stand – Hall A6, Stand 47
When: from 17 to 19 January 2026
Europe’s finest master gelato makers will compete around the theme:
“The Gelato That Makes Europe Sing”
A concept that brings together the art of gelato-making and music, paying tribute to the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, scheduled to take place in Vienna from 12 to 16 May.
“Melody”: the symbolic flavour of Gelato Day 2026
The winning flavour will be called “Melody” and will become the official flavour of Gelato Day 2026. The competing creations must:
- Highlight ingredients representative of European countries
- Use easily accessible raw materials
- Convey European cultural identity through taste
An international jury will evaluate the recipes based on balance, creativity, thematic communication, and reproducibility, essential criteria to ensure the widespread adoption of the winning flavour.
Rules and registration: https://www.gelato-day.it/concorso/
Gelato Day 2026: flavour and music to celebrate Europe
The 2026 edition of the European Artisanal Gelato Day will create a symbolic bridge between gastronomy and music—two universal languages capable of uniting different cultures.
In addition to the events on 24 March, the project will continue in May in Vienna, further strengthening the role of artisanal gelato as an ambassador of Made in Europe worldwide.
Artglace’s perspective on the future of the sector
According to Domenico Belmonte, President of Artglace:
“Artisanal gelato continues to demonstrate an extraordinary capacity for growth and adaptation. With Gelato Day 2026, we aim to combine the language of taste with that of music, creating a project that represents the harmony and diversity of Europe.”
Why artisanal gelato is strategic for the future
The success of artisanal gelato is built on key factors:
- Craftsmanship and high-quality raw materials
- Continuous innovation in recipes
- A strong connection with tourism and local territories
- The ability to communicate shared cultural values
These elements make the sector competitive, sustainable, and ready to face future challenges.