If you think about it, ice cream isn’t just about taste anymore. It’s about how it looks sitting on a shelf or in a customer’s hand. Packaging has become a silent salesperson — and in 2025, it’s speaking louder than ever.

The ice cream packaging market has been evolving fast, fueled by shifting consumer habits and new printing technologies. People want packaging that’s not only beautiful but also kind to the planet. And with social media influencing buying decisions, an eye-catching tub can go viral faster than you can say “mint chocolate chip.”

Today’s leading brands, from Ben & Jerry’s to local artisanal shops, are reinventing their designs with digital printing, paper-based tubs, and biodegradable films. Let’s unpack (pun intended) how design, sustainability, and smart supplier choices are shaping the next wave of ice cream packaging.

Ice Cream Packaging Design Ideas That Sell

Ever noticed how some ice cream brands just pop out at you in the freezer aisle? That’s not luck it’s design psychology at work.

Color Psychology in Ice Cream Packaging

Colors trigger emotions. Pastels suggest light and creamy flavors, while bold reds and blues scream indulgence. A minimalist white design might hint at purity or organic ingredients. In 2025, expect more muted earth tones — beige, soft green, and kraft brown signaling sustainability and natural quality.

Luxury brands often go for rich gold accents and matte finishes, while playful brands use bright pops and hand-drawn illustrations. Think of how Halo Top communicates “healthy indulgence” with its clean fonts and calorie count right on top. Every color choice tells a story.

Want to learn how color and style affect brand identity? Check out our guide on types of packaging boxes.

Creative Box and Tub Designs

Traditional pints aren’t going anywhere, but innovative forms are gaining attention. Square ice cream boxes save freezer space and stack neatly ideal for bulk storage. Meanwhile, paper tubs with textured sleeves are trending for premium artisanal brands.

Explore more style options on our Box by Style page to create unique packaging that fits your product.

Storytelling Through Packaging

Packaging is often the first conversation a brand has with its customer. Ben & Jerry’s, for instance, doesn’t just sell ice cream it sells values: community, sustainability, and fun.

Whether you’re a startup or a heritage brand, your packaging can tell your story — your flavors, your farm, your philosophy. Learn more about brand storytelling through packaging in our post Why Custom Packaging Is the Secret Ingredient for Brand Success.

Custom Ice Cream Packaging for Brands

Every ice cream brand has a personality. Custom packaging brings that personality to life.

Why Custom Design Matters

For small and large businesses alike, custom packaging sets you apart. It builds recognition, adds perceived value, and creates a memorable unboxing experience. Discover more insights in How Custom Packaging Boosts Sales and Builds Trust.

Types of Custom Packaging

Here are a few popular options:

Tubs & Pints: Perfect for take-home and retail sales.
Cups & Cones: Great for single servings and parlors.
Boxes & Wrappers: Ideal for ice cream sandwiches, bars, or novelty shapes.

You can explore more ready-made box designs in our Shop or create a custom one on the Box by Style page.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Ice Cream Packaging Solutions

Sustainability isn’t just a trend it’s an expectation. Learn practical strategies in our article on Eco-Friendly Cosmetic Packaging Ideas that apply perfectly to food brands too.

Rise of Biodegradable and Compostable Materials

Plastic is being replaced by biodegradable paperboard, PLA (plant-based plastic), and sugarcane bagasse. These materials naturally break down, reducing landfill waste and carbon footprint.

Recyclable and Paper-Based Tubs

Paper tubs lined with aqueous or plant coatings are increasingly popular. These materials align with brands that value eco-friendliness and authenticity just like we discussed in How Much Does Custom Packaging Cost?.

Innovative Ice Cream Packaging Ideas for 2025

If sustainability is one half of the equation, innovation is the other. 2025 packaging trends are all about creativity that makes sense.

Learn more about trends shaping 2025 in our post Top 5 Custom Packaging Trends You Can’t Ignore in 2025.

Ice Cream Packaging Machines and Suppliers

Packaging ideas are great, but bringing them to life requires the right partners. You can discover industry examples on our Retail Boxes page for packaging inspiration.

Ice Cream Packaging Market Overview

The ice cream packaging market is growing rapidly with an emphasis on biodegradable materials and digital printing innovations. Learn more about the materials and sizes that matter most in our resource Corrugated Boxes Guide.

How to Choose the Right Ice Cream Packaging for Your Brand

Selecting packaging isn’t just about looks it’s a strategy. Whether you’re crafting luxury tubs or retail-ready designs, our guides can help:

Conclusion

Ice cream packaging in 2025 isn’t just a necessity it’s a powerful marketing tool. The right design tells your story, the right material builds trust, and the right supplier makes your vision a reality.

Whether you’re going for biodegradable paper tubs, smart labels, or refillable jars, your choices show what your brand stands for creativity, responsibility, and care.

So, what’s next for you?
Maybe it’s time to refresh your packaging, reconnect with customers, and scoop up new sales.

Start your custom ice cream packaging journey today.ackaging project today and make your brand the next freezer-aisle favorite.