Pune is experiencing a significant surge in ice cream sales as summer temperatures soar. Parlours, grocery stores, and premium dessert chains are reporting a sharp uptick in demand, with consumers opting for artisanal gelatos, low-sugar alternatives, and traditional favorites to beat the heat.
Manufacturers Expect 25-30% Demand Increase
Ice cream manufacturers anticipate a 25% to 30% rise in demand this summer. Company representatives note that April 2026 sales have been unprecedented. Debabrata Mukherjee, Managing Director of Havmor Ice Cream, told TOI: "We are seeing a huge demand and noticing a willingness in consumers to try innovative differentiated offerings. Categories such as cones, sticks, and single-serve cups are seeing accelerated off-take, especially driven by quick commerce and immediate consumption occasions. Ice cream cakes are emerging as the fastest-growing category, driven by the rise of home celebrations and consumers choosing premium options."
Local Retailers Report High Footfall
Mukesh Singh, who runs a grocery store on NIBM Road, said: "A lot of delivery and courier agents as well as construction workers stop by to grab a quick ice cream candy or cone. We also get orders from nearby residents for party pack sizes or ice cream tubs."
Amul Sees 50% Growth in April
Amul recorded a 50% growth in ice cream sales in April and expects the momentum to continue in May. Managing Director Jayen Mehta told TOI: "The most significant spikes are occurring in our clean label and low-sugar options. Consumers are selecting flavours like jackfruit and sitaphal that offer authentic fruit textures over synthetic flavourings. Low-sugar options are seeing traction among urban, gym-going, health-conscious cohorts. Matka kulfis are popular for family gatherings, while the Ice Lounge and Cake Magic series target consumers looking for a café-like experience at home."
Residents Increase Consumption
Rekha Halwai, a resident of Kothrud, shared that her family has consumed three big tubs of ice cream in the last two weeks. "We are ice cream lovers, so our consumption peaks, especially in the summer when there are new launches," she said. Amol Jadhav, a delivery executive, added: "I buy almost five ice cream candies a day as it is quite dehydrating in the afternoons these days."
Parlours See Surge in Footfalls
Ice cream parlours are also experiencing increased foot traffic. Siddhant Kamath, Director of Naturals Ice Cream, reported a 30% growth across key markets. He said: "The biggest spike in demand is in our fruit-forward and seasonal flavours — with mango leading strongly, followed by kala jamun and tender coconut. Mango with malai has seen exceptional traction. We have also introduced ice cream shakes on our online channels and the category is already showing nearly 100% growth since the launch."
