An Ontario-based ice cream company has announced plans to substitute over 70% of its American ingredients with Canadian or non-U.S. sources. Chapman’s Ice Cream is making this change amidst the ongoing trade conflict between Canada and the United States. Despite the transition, the family-owned company has committed to maintaining its current prices for ice cream until March 2028.
CEO Ashley Chapman revealed that the company initiated the search for alternatives to U.S. suppliers back in March 2025, following the implementation of tariffs by the Trump administration. Chapman emphasized the company’s dedication to this shift during an interview with CBC’s London Morning, stating, “We made a statement at that time that we weren’t raising prices and we were going to start this journey. And here we are. We have not been sitting idle. We have been working very hard.”
By mid-2027, Chapman’s aims to complete the replacement of more than 70% of its American ingredients and components with Canadian or other non-U.S. sources. One significant change involves the production of sugar cones, as there are no industrial sugar cone manufacturers in Canada. To address this, Chapman’s has partnered with Original Foods, a company based in Dunville, Ontario, to establish a 100% Canadian cone line.
Steeve Tremblay, president of Original Foods, expressed satisfaction in keeping jobs and production within Canada, emphasizing the importance of supporting the local economy. The two companies have finalized their agreement, with equipment already purchased in Germany, although delays have occurred due to Canadian regulatory requirements.
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. Chapman noted that the trade dispute has prompted Canadian companies to reconsider their domestic production, leading to unexpected cost savings and new opportunities.
Chapman reiterated the company’s commitment to using 100% Canadian dairy in its ice cream and highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance production efficiency for cost control. Despite the challenges posed by the trade dispute, Chapman expressed confidence in the company’s ability to navigate through the changes successfully.
The company’s strategic moves reflect a broader trend among Canadian businesses to reassess their supply chains and prioritize domestic sourcing in response to international trade tensions.