Chapman’s Ice Cream, a company based in Ontario, has announced plans to substitute more than 70% of its American ingredients with non-U.S. sources without raising prices for two years. This decision comes amidst the ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States. CEO Ashley Chapman revealed that the company initiated the shift away from American suppliers in response to the tariffs imposed by the Trump administration in March 2025.
Chapman’s Ice Cream is set to replace over 70% of its American ingredients with Canadian or alternative sources by mid-2027. One significant change involves the production of sugar cones, as there are no industrial sugar cone manufacturers in Canada. To address this, Chapman’s partnered with Original Foods, a company based in Dunville, Ontario, to introduce a Canadian cone line, becoming the sole ice cream company in Canada with a 100% Canadian cone supply.
Original Foods Limited will manufacture the sugar cones for Chapman’s, with the collaboration initiated during heightened trade discussions between Canada and the U.S. President of Original Foods, Steeve Tremblay, highlighted the importance of supporting local manufacturing to strengthen the Canadian economy and reduce dependence on external sources.
Despite delays due to regulatory requirements, Chapman’s and Original Foods have finalized their agreement, with equipment purchased from Germany. Tremblay expressed intentions to engage with other Canadian companies for further local partnerships.
Chapman’s is also relocating the production of wafers for its ice cream sandwiches to Canada and sourcing ingredients like almonds from Australia and cherries from Chile. CEO Ashley Chapman emphasized the positive impact of these changes on Canadian businesses, noting unexpected cost efficiencies and improved opportunities.
The company remains committed to using 100% Canadian dairy in its ice cream production. Chapman expressed confidence in successfully navigating these transitions and enhancing production efficiency to manage costs effectively, ensuring a sustainable future for the company.