Russia’s Ice Cream Production in Q2 2023 Surges Amid Warm Weather and Market Shifts
In the second quarter of 2023, Russia produced 188 million kilograms of ice cream, marking a 47 percent rise from the previous quarter by 99.53 million kilograms. This data comes from the state marking system Honest Sign and was reported by Izvestia, reflecting a period of notable growth in frozen dairy products.
The increase in output is attributed by the system operator to several concurrent factors. An exceptionally warm summer boosted consumer demand for frozen treats, while packaging costs stabilized and the price of raw milk declined. These conditions combined to lift production volumes across the sector and create a favorable environment for manufacturers and retailers alike.
When comparing year over year, ice cream production in Q2 2023 rose by 27 percent compared with the same quarter in the previous year, when output totaled 148 million kilograms. This growth underscores a sustained rebound in domestic ice cream activity and consumer purchasing, supported by a mix of lower input costs and higher seasonal demand.
Geographically, the Central District accounted for the largest share of production during the quarter, representing one third of total output (about 33 percent). The Volga District followed with roughly 21 percent of production. Regions with comparatively lower production included the North Caucasus and the Far East, which together accounted for around 2.3 percent and 1.5 percent respectively, highlighting regional variations in demand and manufacturing capacity.
Market dynamics also shifted the composition of ice cream offerings. Cones and other formats gained share at the expense of classic glasses, while the traditional popsicle category saw a modest decline. The mix shift suggests consumer preferences tilting toward more portable and versatile formats during the quarter, with manufacturers adapting to evolving tastes and retail strategies.
The average price for ice cream in Russia during Q2 2023 stood at 635 rubles per kilogram, a figure that reflects the interplay of cost inputs, competition, and consumer willingness to pay during a season of high demand.
By early August, dairy product prices in the Russian market softened further, according to market analyses. This additional easing in dairy costs likely supported continued production activity in subsequent months and contributed to stabilizing retail prices for frozen desserts. Market observers note that the broader trade environment remains affected by sanctions and policy developments, requiring ongoing monitoring of how these factors influence supply chains and pricing strategies for ice cream and related dairy products.
Overall, the second quarter of 2023 demonstrated a robust expansion in ice cream production driven by favorable weather, cost declines in key inputs, and shifting consumer preferences toward newer formats. The regional distribution of output, coupled with evolving product mixes, paints a picture of a sector adapting to both macroeconomic conditions and changing tastes within Russia’s diverse markets. According to Izvestia and Honest Sign data, the quarter closed with notable momentum that set the stage for continued activity into the latter part of the year.