Prague, Czech Republic – As summer temperatures rise, the Czech ice cream industry is experiencing a decline in sales due to skyrocketing prices. According to industry expert Bohumil Štěpanovský from Zmrzky Tatra, one of the leading ice cream manufacturers, this season has seen significantly weaker sales compared to previous years.

The surge in prices, affecting everything from ice cream cones to the ice cream itself, has been identified as the primary cause of the lackluster sales. Štěpanovský explains that the rising costs of ingredients, such as more expensive mixes, and even cones, which have seen a nearly 100% price increase over the past three years, have forced ice cream vendors to raise their prices. The average price of an ice cream cone has now reached 45 crowns, making families with multiple children reconsider their purchases.

Notably, even major ice cream sellers are feeling the impact of the weak sales. Štěpanovský remarks that large ice cream sellers, who previously sold two hundred kilograms per month, are now only able to sell a hundred kilograms.

This trend extends beyond Zmrzky Tatra, as other significant ice cream suppliers, including Česká zmrzlina z Opočna, have also reported a slump in sales this year.

Among the popular ice cream flavors, vanilla, strawberry, and raspberry continue to be favorites, while chocolate sales have remained minimal this year.

Surprisingly, sales of ice shavings have also been affected. Smaller sellers, particularly in rural areas, often face a decline in business if they offer both ice cream and shavings, as customers tend to opt for one or the other, not both.

Štěpanovský highlights that warm weather, ideally exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, plays a crucial role in driving ice cream sales. Additionally, ice cream vendors near schools eagerly await the end of summer vacation, as they experience their highest sales when children return to school. However, Štěpanovský emphasizes that sales dynamics vary depending on the location.

The current situation is disappointing for ice cream enthusiasts, especially families with children. The increased prices have forced ice cream vendors to adjust their pricing, prompting families to reconsider their ice cream purchases.

As the summer season continues, the industry remains uncertain about the impact of ongoing price increases on ice cream sales. Stakeholders will closely monitor consumer behavior to assess the long-term implications and determine strategies to mitigate the effects of rising prices.

Article by Prague Forum