Choosing a Drink Over Ice Cream? Consumers Are Changing Their Preferences

On a hot summer day, a refreshing scoop of ice cream used to be the classic way to beat the heat. But recent data shows that this trend may be shifting. In the summer of 2024, ice cream sales in Korea dropped by 35%, while more and more consumers are opting for cold drinks to cool down instead. What’s driving this shift in behavior?

1. When It’s Too Hot, Ice Cream Becomes Less Appealing

When temperatures hover in the low 30s (Celsius), ice cream sales tend to increase. However, when a heatwave pushes the temperature past 35°C, consumers gravitate toward cold water, sports drinks, iced coffee, and soda — options that quench thirst more quickly. Ice cream, after all, is a dessert, not a hydration solution.

2. Drinks Are Faster and More Convenient

With a cold drink, you just twist the cap and drink. Ice cream, on the other hand, melts quickly, can get messy, and takes time to eat. In extreme heat, consumers prioritize speed and ease — factors that clearly favor beverages.

3. Retailers Prefer Drinks Over Ice Cream

From a logistics perspective, cold drinks are easier to store and rotate. Ice cream requires strict freezing, and if it melts, it must be discarded. This makes drinks more attractive to retailers, which in turn affects shelf space and visibility.

4. Health Trends Favor Low-Calorie Beverages

Modern consumers are increasingly choosing low-sugar, sugar-free, and zero-calorie drinks as part of a health-conscious lifestyle. Ice cream still carries the stigma of being high in sugar and calories, so many prefer to spend their money on functional beverages or light iced teas instead.

5. The New Standard for “Cooling Foods”

In the past, ice cream was the go-to cooling snack. But now, the trend is shifting to practical, quick, and drink-based cooling choices. This is not a passing fad, but a reflection of deep structural changes in lifestyle and consumer behavior.

Conclusion: Ice Cream vs. Drinks — Who Wins Summer?

As the heat intensifies, more consumers are choosing beverages over ice cream. This isn’t a temporary blip — it’s the result of evolving expectations around health, convenience, pricing, and practicality. Ice cream brands can no longer rely solely on the weather to drive sales. A new strategic approach is essential for staying relevant.