U.S. Frozen Treat Appliances Market Size, Share, Trends & Competitive Analysis Report By Product Type (Ice Cream Makers, Soft-Serve Ice Cream Makers, Frozen Yogurt Makers), Freezing Method, Capacity, Operation Mode, End-Use, Distribution Channel and Region – Forecast to 2032

Market Introduction

The U.S. frozen treat appliances market is witnessing steady growth, driven by the convergence of at-home culinary

trends, commercial foodservice expansion, and evolving consumer preferences toward personalized and health

oriented frozen desserts.

Valued at approximately USD 868.21 Million in 2024, the market is projected to reach USD 916.83 Million in 2025,

with a longer-term outlook pointing to USD 1,412.69 Million by 2032, reflecting a CAGR of 6.4% between 2025 and

On the consumer side, demand is being fueled by the rising popularity of smart, easy-to-use countertop appliances.

Devices such as the Ninja Creami Swirl and similar multi-function machines offer consumers the flexibility to create

low-sugar, dairy-free, or high-protein frozen treats at home.

These appliances are gaining traction as wellness-driven diets and experimental cooking routines become mainstream.

Distribution is dominated by e-commerce channels like Amazon and Walmart, with seasonal spikes in sales during

warmer months.

In the commercial segment, equipment suppliers like Taylor, Stoelting, and Carpigiani continue to cater to QSR chains,

dessert parlors, and institutional kitchens. Demand is being supported by menu diversification in fast-food outlets and

increased dessert offerings in non-traditional locations such as convenience stores and food trucks.

Commercial buyers prioritize energy efficiency, long-term ROI, and NSF-certified sanitation standards. Supply chains

remain globally integrated but are increasingly optimized for North American assembly and faster turnaround.

While market growth is promising, certain constraints persist. These include high upfront investment and maintenance

costs, seasonal utilization imbalances, and saturation in segments like frozen yogurt. However, the integration of smart

technology, low-GWP refrigerants, and modular appliance designs is expected to unlock further growth.

Thus, the U.S. frozen treat appliances market presents a balanced mix of innovation-led expansion and category

specific maturity, positioning it as a resilient and evolving segment within the broader food equipment landscape.

Key Market Segments

To calculate the market Size, the report considers the revenue generated from the following segments such as By

Product Type, Freezing Method, Capacity, Functionality, Working Model, Operational Mode, Price Tier, End-use and

Distribution Channel.

Based on product type, the U.S. Frozen Treat Appliances Market is dominated by the ice cream makers, followed by

the soft-serve ice cream makers, frozen yogurt makers, and gelato makers. Ice-cream makers occupied around 26% of

the entire market in the year 2024. The increasing adoption of small and medium Sized ice-cream makers in the

households is contributing to the dominance of the appliance in the industry.

Based on freezing method, the freezing-bowl machines occupied the largest share in the industry. However, with the

growing adoption and integration of smart technologies, along with efficient and effective production practices, the

hybrid models are expected to grow at a highest CAGR of 7.1% in the upcoming period.

The single-treat appliances take up more than half of the market in terms of revenue owing to the high demand,

affordability and high usage of these appliances. Nevertheless, the multi-treat appliances are rapidly expanding in the

U.S. market as well. The café culture, increasing demand of frozen treats in QSRs and other restaurants, is contributing

to the need of multi-treat appliances in the region. The segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% over the

forecast period (2025-2032).

Strategic Insight:

Technological innovation and consumer demand for personalized, health-oriented frozen treats are set to

become the dominant forces shaping market growth through 2031. These drivers are gaining momentum as

both households and commercial buyers prioritize efficiency, versatility, and wellness-focused features. In

contrast, traditional restraints such as high upfront costs, seasonal demand swings, and segment saturation are

expected to persist but gradually lessen in influence as the market adapts with financing models, hybrid product

formats, and year-round positioning strategies.

Latest Trends

1. Growing Popularity of Premium & Customizable Frozen Treats

Consumers in the U.S. are seeking high-quality frozen desserts like gourmet gelato, dairy-free sorbet, and frozen yogurt. This has led to increased demand for advanced appliances that allow customization, small-batch production, and precise temperature control.

2. Smart and Energy-Efficient Appliance Adoption

Manufacturers are introducing machines with energy-saving technology, digital control panels, automated cleaning systems, and IoT-enabled features that allow real-time monitoring and remote operation. These innovations enhance efficiency and reduce long-term operating costs.

3. Rise in QSRs, Cafés, and Dessert Chains

The proliferation of quick-service restaurants, coffee shops, and frozen dessert chains is significantly boosting demand for commercial-grade appliances. These businesses prioritize high-capacity, low-maintenance equipment to meet peak service demands.

4. Sustainability and Green Equipment Initiatives

With growing focus on sustainability, equipment made with eco-friendly refrigerants and reduced energy consumption is becoming a priority among U.S. operators. Consumers and regulators alike are pressuring brands to reduce their carbon footprints.

Growth Factors

• Health-Conscious & Functional Ingredients: Demand for frozen treats with low sugar, probiotics, or plant-based ingredients is encouraging innovation in appliances that can handle varied product formulations.

• Technological Integration: Advancements in automation, real-time diagnostics, and digital interfaces are driving replacements and upgrades of older models.

• Rising Disposable Income: Increased consumer spending in premium food and beverage experiences is leading to greater investment in both home and commercial appliances.

• Seasonal Promotions and Flavors: Strong summer sales and seasonal marketing campaigns by retailers and food chains continue to stimulate short-term surges in demand.

Restraining Factors

• High Initial Capital Costs: Advanced frozen treat appliances, especially for commercial use, come with substantial upfront investments which may deter small businesses.

• Operational & Maintenance Challenges: Some high-capacity machines require regular servicing and specialized cleaning, increasing operating overhead.

• Regulatory Compliance: Stringent health and safety standards, along with refrigerant phase-outs and energy labeling, require manufacturers to adapt quickly.

• Market Saturation: In certain urban areas, the market is approaching maturity with high equipment penetration among foodservice operators.

Segmental Analysis

By Equipment Type

• Soft Serve Machines: Most popular in QSRs and dessert chains due to high output and efficiency.

• Frozen Yogurt & Gelato Machines: Demand driven by the rise of boutique dessert shops and gourmet offerings.

• Batch Freezers: Preferred for artisanal and small-batch ice cream makers.

• Frozen Beverage Dispensers: Gaining popularity in convenience stores and drink chains.

• Countertop vs. Floor-standing Units: Floor-standing machines dominate the commercial space due to larger capacity, while countertop units are gaining popularity in residential and small café settings.

By End-user

• Commercial: Dominates the market share with wide adoption in restaurants, hotels, amusement parks, and catering services.

• Residential: Growing due to consumer interest in home-based dessert preparation and availability of compact, user-friendly appliances.

Regional Insights

United States: Market Leader in Frozen Treat Appliances

The U.S. market benefits from a combination of well-established foodservice infrastructure, strong seasonal demand, and a trend toward premium frozen desserts. Consumer preferences are shifting toward natural, organic, and low-calorie options, pushing appliance innovation.

Frozen beverage dispensers are especially prominent, with multi-serve electric dispensers expected to generate over USD 900 million in 2024, projected to nearly double by 2034. High usage in convenience stores and fast food outlets reinforces consistent market demand.

Urban areas show high penetration, while suburban and rural markets are witnessing growth driven by new foodservice establishments and rising disposable incomes.

Competition Analysis

Key Players in the U.S. Frozen Treat Appliance Market

• Taylor Company – Known for soft serve and shake machines, especially in QSRs like McDonald’s.

• Electro Freeze (H.C. Duke & Son) – Popular in dessert chains such as Dairy Queen and Sonic.

• Stoelting – Specializes in soft serve and frozen beverage equipment.

• Vollrath Company – Offers a range of commercial refrigeration and serving equipment.

• Fetco, Sentry Equipment, Heinen Freezing, CES Freezing Technology – Compete on innovation, sustainability, and customization.

Key Industry Developments

• Expansion in Production Capacities: Major players are increasing manufacturing capabilities to cater to rising demand from food chains and retail outlets.

• Smart Features: Integration of touch-screen controls, auto-cleaning systems, and mobile app connectivity is gaining traction in new product lines.

• Strategic Collaborations: Partnerships between equipment manufacturers and food chains are helping tailor appliance features to operational needs.

• Sustainable Design Shifts: R&D focus on refrigerants with low global warming potential and machines designed to reduce energy and water usage.