Ilha do Sorvete, an initiative by ABIS (Associação Brasileira das Indústrias e do Setor de Sorvetes), is a strategic trade show platform dedicated to the growth and development of Brazil's frozen dessert industry. Based in São Paulo, Brazil, Ilha do Sorvete serves as a specialized segment within larger industry events, offering exclusive visibility for ice cream, gelato, popsicle, açaí, and other frozen delicacy producers and suppliers.
Institutional Backing and Leadership
ABIS, the Brazilian Association of the Ice Cream Industry, is the governing body behind Ilha do Sorvete. The organization is led by Eduardo Weisberg, a key figure in Brazil's frozen dessert sector, who has been instrumental in shaping policies, driving industry research, and creating strategic platforms for networking and promotion.
Mission and Strategic Objectives
Ilha do Sorvete was created to elevate the profile of the Brazilian frozen dessert sector through:
- Focused Market Access: Providing producers with direct access to retailers, distributors, and international buyers.
- Innovation Showcase: Offering a platform to present new products, flavors, ingredients, and technologies to the market.
- Education and Professional Development: Hosting seminars, workshops, and technical sessions led by industry experts.
Event Highlights and Scope
Ilha do Sorvete is strategically hosted within prominent trade shows such as ANUFOOD Brazil and Fispal Sorvetes, attracting thousands of professional visitors each year. Notable highlights include:
- Over 200 Participating Companies in 2024, representing Brazil’s leading and emerging ice cream and dessert brands.
- More than 15,000 Visitors to the dedicated pavilion during the most recent edition of Fispal.
- Product Launches from innovative brands in categories like plant-based ice cream, low-sugar formulations, and artisanal gelato.
Market Impact and Industry Context
According to ABIS data:
- Annual Ice Cream Consumption in Brazil: Over 1.3 billion liters.
- Market Value: Estimated at BRL 14 billion (~USD 2.8 billion) as of 2023.
- Growth Trend: The sector recorded a 7% year-on-year growth, fueled by demand for functional and premium frozen products.
Ilha do Sorvete plays a critical role in bringing this dynamic industry together, serving as the main arena for product discovery, brand elevation, and commercial expansion.
Educational and Innovation Focus
The platform is also committed to technical excellence and industry education. Programs offered include:
- Workshops on Cold Chain Logistics, food safety, and sustainability practices.
- Panels on Consumer Trends, such as vegan ice creams, low-GI ingredients, and exotic Brazilian flavors.
- Startup Pitches and Tech Exhibits that highlight cutting-edge developments in production equipment and eco-packaging.
Networking and Business Development
Ilha do Sorvete is not only an exhibition space but also a business catalyst:
- B2B Matchmaking Services: Connecting buyers, distributors, and foodservice operators with manufacturers.
- Export Promotion: Facilitating access to international markets through partnerships with export agencies and international pavilions.
- Collaborations with Retail Chains: Including on-site product testing and distribution discussions.
Industry Influence and Recognition
ABIS, through Ilha do Sorvete, has successfully transformed the frozen dessert sector into a high-visibility and high-impact vertical within Brazil’s broader food and beverage ecosystem. The initiative is increasingly recognized by stakeholders as the official launchpad for innovation and market scaling in frozen indulgence products.
With its continued focus on education, innovation, and market connection, Ilha do Sorvete remains the cornerstone of Brazil’s thriving ice cream and frozen dessert industry.