Chapman’s Ice Cream, an Ontario-based ice cream company, has announced plans to replace over 70% of its American ingredients with Canadian or non-U.S. sources. Amid the ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States, the family-owned company has committed not to raise prices for its ice cream until March 2028.
The decision to shift away from American suppliers was initiated in March 2025, following the imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration. CEO Ashley Chapman revealed that the company has been actively seeking alternatives to U.S. suppliers since then, emphasizing their dedication to maintaining price stability and sourcing locally.
By mid-2027, Chapman’s aims to have replaced more than 70% of its American ingredients and components with Canadian or non-U.S. sources. One significant change involves the sourcing of sugar cones, as Canada lacks producers for industrial sugar cones. In collaboration with Original Foods, a Dunville, Ont.-based company, Chapman’s will establish a 100% Canadian cone line, ensuring domestic production of this essential component.
President Steeve Tremblay of Original Foods expressed satisfaction in supporting local manufacturing and strengthening the Canadian economy by partnering with Chapman’s. The agreement between the two companies has been finalized, with equipment procurement in progress. However, delays have been encountered due to regulatory requirements specific to Canada, highlighting the need for streamlined processes to facilitate local partnerships.
In addition to sourcing sugar cones locally, Chapman’s is also transitioning the production of wafers for its ice cream sandwiches to Canada. Ingredients such as almonds from Australia and cherries from Chile are being sourced to diversify the supply chain and reduce dependence on American imports.
The trade dispute has prompted Chapman’s and other Canadian companies to reassess their domestic production capabilities. Chapman emphasized the unexpected affordability of sourcing certain ingredients from alternative countries, such as almonds from Australia, demonstrating the opportunities that have arisen amidst the changing trade landscape.
Chapman affirmed the company’s long-term commitments to local sourcing, including a five-year contract for Canadian-made cones, and ongoing efforts to enhance production efficiency for cost control. The company remains committed to using 100% Canadian dairy in its ice cream products, underscoring its dedication to supporting domestic industries.
