Why trade partners are stocking more plant-based & trend-driven ice creams in 2025
plant-based ice cream
The plant-based ice cream boom in the UK
Plant-based eating has moved from niche to mainstream, and the UK is leading the change. From cafés and coffee shops to restaurants and dessert parlours, businesses are rethinking their menus to cater to growing demand for dairy-free, vegan and trend-driven alternatives.
In 2025, ice cream is no exception. It’s not just about cutting out dairy – it’s about flavour, experience, and inclusivity. More customers are choosing plant-based options for health, environmental, and ethical reasons – and they still expect the indulgence and quality they know and love.
What’s driving changing consumer preferences?
More UK consumers are:
- Following a reduced or dairy free diet
- Seeking healthier dessert options with fewer allergens
- Choosing products that are kinder to the planet and come with clear ingredient transparency
- Looking for brands that align with their values and lifestyle choices
In response, venues that offer premium plant-based options are not only meeting expectations – they’re building stronger customer loyalty and increasing sales.
How trade partners & wholesalers are adapting with new lines
Foodservice professionals know that menus must evolve to stay competitive. That’s why trade partners and wholesalers are stocking up on plant-based and trend-led ice cream lines that add variety, cater to broader dietary needs, and tap into the “treat yourself” moment customers still crave.
Whether it’s for:
- Vegan-friendly desserts
- Healthier dessert menu options
- Allergy-aware options at family-friendly restaurants
- Or eco-conscious menus at modern hospitality venues
…the right ice cream offering can drive real impact.
Trend-driven flavours to watch in 2025
Here are a few plant-based and lifestyle-focused ice cream trends making waves this year:
Vegan Options that Taste Like the Real Thing
Texture and taste matter more than ever. Smooth, creamy, and indulgent vegan ice creams are now indistinguishable from dairy versions.
At New Forest Ice Cream, we don’t just label our range as ‘vegan-friendly’. We go the extra mile. Our plant-based ice creams are certified 100% vegan, with independent testing carried out to ensure there’s absolutely no trace of non-vegan ingredients.
This gives our trade partners total confidence when catering to customers with plant-based lifestyles or dietary needs.
Low-Calorie Indulgence
With wellness remaining top of mind, customers are seeking guilt-free indulgences – ice creams with lower sugar and calorie counts but no compromise on flavour.
Adventurous Flavours & Global Inspiration
Think Tropical Mango Blast, Cherry Cola and Lotus Biscoff ice cream. These trend-led flavours attract curious customers and social shares. Read more on this in our blog on the top 4 trending ice cream flavours
Sustainable & Transparent Sourcing
From plant-based recipes to local ingredients and recyclable packaging, customers love to know that what they’re enjoying is doing good, too.
How New Forest Ice Cream is leading the change
At New Forest Ice Cream, we’re proud to support our trade partners with innovative, high-quality plant-based and trend-led ice cream options – crafted without compromise.
- Our plant-based range delivers the same rich, creamy texture as our award-winning dairy flavours
- We’re focused on flavour innovation, bringing fresh ideas to menus that set your business apart
- We cater to the growing demand for allergen-aware, inclusive options in hospitality
- All products are made in our nut-free production facility for added peace of mind
And as an award winning family-run British business (the 365 Awards ‘Family Business of the Year 2025′) with decades of experience, we’re here to support you every step of the way – from freezer solutions to seasonal stock planning.
Stay ahead of evolving demand – and increase dessert sales
Now is the perfect time to refresh your dessert menu and capture the attention of today’s conscious consumer. Whether you’re a wholesaler, hospitality group, or independent café, partnering with New Forest Ice Cream means you’ll always have on-trend, customer-loved flavours ready to serve.
Let’s talk trade
Get in touch today to explore our plant-based range and discover how we can help you scoop up more sales this season.
