Chapman’s Ice Cream, an Ontario-based ice cream company, has announced plans to substitute over 70% of its American ingredients with Canadian or non-U.S. sources. This decision comes amidst the ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States. The family-owned company assures customers that prices will remain unchanged for the next two years, with a commitment not to increase prices until March 2028.
CEO Ashley Chapman revealed that the company initiated the search for alternative suppliers to U.S. sources back in March 2025, following the imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration. Chapman emphasized the company’s proactive approach in seeking new suppliers, stating, “We made a statement at that time that we weren’t raising prices and we were going to start this journey. And here we are. We have not been sitting idle. We have been working very hard.”
The transition to Canadian or non-U.S. sources is progressing well, with Chapman’s aiming to complete the replacement of American ingredients and components by mid-2027. Notably, one significant change involves the production of sugar cones, for which Chapman’s has partnered with Original Foods, a company based in Dunville, Ontario. Original Foods Limited will manufacture the sugar cones for Chapman’s, marking a significant milestone in creating a 100% Canadian cone line.
Steeve Tremblay, president of Original Foods, expressed pride in supporting local manufacturing and strengthening the Canadian economy. The partnership between the two companies has already been formalized through an agreement, although delays have been encountered due to regulatory requirements unique to Canada, particularly in the electricity registration process.
Chapman’s is also diversifying its ingredient sources, such as sourcing almonds from Australia and cherries from Chile. This strategic shift is part of a broader trend among Canadian companies, prompted by the trade dispute, to reassess domestic production capabilities. Chapman highlighted that these changes have not only been cost-effective but have also opened up new opportunities for businesses in Canada.
In addition to sourcing changes, Chapman’s is committed to using 100% Canadian dairy in its ice cream and is focused on enhancing production efficiency to manage costs effectively. Chapman expressed confidence in the company’s ability to navigate these changes successfully, emphasizing a long-term commitment to sustaining these transformations.