Chapman’s Ice Cream, an Ontario-based company, has announced plans to substitute over 70% of its American ingredients and maintain existing prices for the next two years. This decision comes as a response to the ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States.
The family-owned business initiated the search for alternative suppliers within Canada in March 2025, following the imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration. CEO Ashley Chapman emphasized the company’s commitment to cost stability, stating that they would not raise prices until March 2028.
Chapman’s Ice Cream aims to transition more than 70% of its American-sourced ingredients to Canadian or non-U.S. origins by mid-2027. Notably, the company has partnered with Original Foods, a company based outside Hamilton, to introduce a cone oven for producing sugar cones domestically, making Chapman’s the sole Canadian company with a fully Canadian cone line.
Furthermore, efforts are underway to shift the production of wafers for ice cream sandwiches to Canada, while sourcing almonds from Australia and cherries from Chile. Chapman highlighted the unexpected affordability of these changes, citing the ability to secure better pricing, including freight costs, from international sources like Australia.
Amid the trade dispute, Canadian businesses, including Chapman’s, are reevaluating their domestic production strategies. Chapman emphasized the transformative impact of the tariffs, noting that some changes have proven more cost-effective than anticipated.
The company is committed to long-term partnerships, such as a five-year agreement for Canadian-made cones, and is actively enhancing production efficiency to manage expenses effectively. Chapman expressed confidence in navigating through the challenges posed by the trade dispute.
Chapman’s Ice Cream remains dedicated to using 100% Canadian dairy in its products, underscoring its commitment to supporting domestic suppliers and ensuring product quality.