Chapman’s Ice Cream in Ontario announces plans to substitute over 70% of American ingredients with Canadian or non-U.S. sources amidst ongoing trade tensions. The family-owned company commits to maintaining current prices for ice cream until March 2028.
CEO Ashley Chapman reveals that the company initiated the transition away from U.S. suppliers in response to the initial tariffs imposed by the Trump administration in March 2025. Chapman emphasizes the proactive approach taken by Chapman’s in seeking alternatives and underscores the diligent efforts put into sourcing new suppliers.
The company aims to replace more than 70% of American ingredients with Canadian or non-U.S. sources by mid-2027. A significant aspect of this shift involves the production of sugar cones, as Canada lacks industrial cone manufacturers. Chapman’s has partnered with Original Foods Limited, based in Dunville, Ontario, to establish a fully Canadian cone line.
President Steeve Tremblay of Original Foods Limited expresses the importance of supporting local manufacturing to bolster the Canadian economy and reduce reliance on external sources amid trade uncertainties. The agreement between the two companies has been finalized, with equipment procurement underway.
Furthermore, Chapman’s is relocating the production of wafers for ice cream sandwiches to Canada and sourcing ingredients such as almonds from Australia and cherries from Chile. Chapman highlights the industry-wide impact of the trade dispute, prompting Canadian companies to reassess domestic production opportunities.
Chapman remains optimistic about the long-term commitments made, including a five-year contract for Canadian-made cones, and emphasizes efforts to enhance production efficiency to manage costs effectively. The company reaffirms its commitment to using 100% Canadian dairy in its ice cream products.