Chapman’s Ice Cream, based in Ontario, announces plans to replace over 70% of its American ingredients amid the ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States. The family-owned company assures customers that prices will remain stable until March 2028. CEO Ashley Chapman explains that the decision to seek alternatives to U.S. suppliers was made in response to the initial tariffs imposed by the Trump administration in March 2025.
The company is making significant progress in transitioning to Canadian or non-U.S. sources for its ingredients and components, aiming to complete the shift by mid-2027. One notable change involves the production of sugar cones, as there are no Canadian manufacturers for industrial sugar cones. Chapman’s has partnered with Original Foods, a company based in Dunville, Ontario, to establish a 100% Canadian cone line.
Original Foods Limited will be producing sugar cones for Chapman’s, following discussions that intensified during trade talks between Canada and the U.S. President Steeve Tremblay emphasizes the importance of supporting local manufacturing to strengthen the Canadian economy and reduce dependency on external sources. Despite some delays in equipment acquisition due to specific Canadian requirements, Tremblay is keen on fostering more local partnerships with Canadian companies.
Chapman’s is also shifting the production of wafers for its ice cream sandwiches to Canada and sourcing ingredients like almonds from Australia and cherries from Chile. The company’s commitment to using 100% Canadian dairy in its products remains unchanged. CEO Chapman highlights the positive impact of these changes on businesses in Canada, emphasizing the unexpected affordability of sourcing certain ingredients from alternative countries.
The company’s long-term strategies include a five-year contract for Canadian-made cones and efforts to enhance production efficiency for cost control. Chapman expresses confidence in navigating through the challenges posed by the trade dispute, ensuring a successful transition towards a more self-sufficient and cost-effective production model.