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Unilever is expanding its ice cream offerings with the launch of new snackable formats, responding to a burgeoning snacking market valued at £2.9 billion in the UK.

The company aims to capture a larger share of the ice cream category with the introduction of Magnum bonbon, upgraded Ben & Jerry’s Peaces and Carte D’Or Mini Indulgence, all available from September.

Magnum bonbon is designed as a bite-sized indulgence, featuring the brand's signature chocolate coating and creamy dairy ice cream, complemented by various sauces and crunchy inclusions. This product is positioned to cater to evolving consumer preferences for smaller, shareable treats, particularly during social occasions such as movie nights.

Ben & Jerry's has also revamped its Peaces line, introducing a new Salted Caramel Brownie flavour alongside an improved Cookie Dough variant. Both products come in resealable zip lock bags, making them convenient for on-the-go snacking.

Additionally, the Carte D’Or Mini Indulgence range offers smaller pots of ice cream in flavors like Eton Mess and Vanilla Caramel Pecan, aimed at providing moments of indulgence without the commitment of larger tubs. These products are expected to appeal to consumers looking for a quick dessert fix or a treat to share with family and friends.

Jennifer Dyne, head of Unilever Ice Cream UK and Ireland, said: “Ice cream continues to have huge growth potential and new formats are key to driving this further within the category. Over the past few years, we have continued to see consumers shifting from dessert tubs into smaller formats – whether that be portioned tubs, handheld or bite size."

She continued: "More consumers are looking for a small, sweet treat in the evening, or for other snacking occasions such as on the go or at their desk".

The rollout of these snackable formats comes as Unilever seeks to capitalise on the increased demand for ice cream products that cater to diverse eating occasions.

The company plans to distribute Magnum bonbon through grocery stores starting this month, while Ben & Jerry’s Peaces are already available via GoPuff and will soon enter traditional grocery channels.

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