Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is experiencing strong sales growth as shoppers continue buying small luxuries, particularly high-end ice cream, despite economic concerns.
The Columbus-based brand, famous for flavors like strawberry pretzel pie and wildberry lavender, has increased its household reach by 46% compared to last year, according to data from NIQ. A pint sells for $8.99, yet sales remain steady.
Scott Hargrove, the company’s chief marketing officer, explained that spending habits have shifted. “Economic uncertainty is real, and people are looking for value,” he said. “What we’re seeing [consumers] not changing is those smaller luxuries, making time for intentional indulgence and premium brands.”
Founded in 2002, Jeni’s built its reputation on bold flavors and a devoted customer base. While its scoop shops still generate about 55% of revenue, wholesale partnerships with retailers like Kroger, Albertsons, and Whole Foods now contribute 35%. Online sales make up the remaining 10%.
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The brand has expanded its visibility through collaborations with shows like Bridgerton and Ted Lasso, as well as musician Olivia Rodrigo. Hargrove noted that despite these efforts, awareness remains modest compared to long-established competitors.
The premium ice cream market is growing quickly. Industry analysts valued the sector at $21.56 billion in 2025, with projections reaching $38.96 billion by 2033. Jeni’s competes with other high-end brands such as Van Leeuwen and Tillamook, which also charge premium prices.
Jeni’s stands out by positioning itself as a female-focused maverick brand that differentiates itself from other ice cream brands that focus on family tradition.
That strategy has worked. Grocery sales have risen since the pandemic, with the strongest growth in the past year and a half. A 2024 Innova study found that one in six consumers planned to spend more on premium food and drinks, especially younger shoppers.
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Rather than pursuing every retail opportunity, the company selects partnerships that fit its image. “Wholesale clearly has a ton of opportunity, and wholesale acceleration will be a big theme for the organization going forward,” Hargrove said.
Flavor development balances innovation with familiarity, offering both reinvented classics and limited-edition releases. The company has also expanded its seasonal flavor drops.
Hargrove added that while the entire category benefits from this trend, Jeni’s is uniquely positioned to benefit even more. “It’s benefiting the entire category, but I would argue that we are uniquely positioned to benefit even more.”