Chapman’s Ice Cream, an Ontario-based company, has announced plans to substitute over 70% of its American ingredients with Canadian or non-U.S. sources amidst the ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States. The family-owned business has committed to maintaining its current pricing for ice cream products until March 2028.
CEO Ashley Chapman revealed that the company initiated the search for alternative suppliers to reduce reliance on U.S. sources following the imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration in March 2025. Chapman emphasized the company’s proactive approach to this transition, stating that they have been diligently working towards this goal.
By mid-2027, Chapman’s aims to have successfully replaced more than 70% of its American ingredients and components with Canadian or other non-U.S. options. One significant change involves the production of sugar cones, as there are no industrial sugar cone manufacturers in Canada. In response, Chapman’s has partnered with Original Foods, a company based in Dunville, Ontario, to establish a 100% Canadian cone line.
President Steeve Tremblay of Original Foods highlighted the benefits of sourcing locally, emphasizing the positive impact on the Canadian economy and reducing dependence on external suppliers. The agreement between the two companies has been finalized, with equipment procurement underway in Germany, albeit facing delays due to Canadian regulatory requirements.
In addition to sourcing sugar cones domestically, Chapman’s is also shifting the production of ice cream sandwich wafers to Canada and exploring alternative ingredient sources such as almonds from Australia and cherries from Chile. Chapman stressed the importance of reevaluating domestic production amidst the trade dispute, noting that some changes have proven to be cost-effective and beneficial for the business.
Looking ahead, Chapman’s remains committed to using 100% Canadian dairy in its ice cream products. The company is focused on enhancing production efficiency to manage costs effectively. Chapman expressed confidence in navigating through the challenges posed by the trade dispute and emphasized the company’s long-term commitments to local sourcing and production.
The strategic shift towards domestic and non-U.S. suppliers reflects Chapman’s Ice Cream’s dedication to sustainability and resilience in the face of evolving trade dynamics.
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