Chapman’s Ice Cream, an Ontario-based company, has announced plans to substitute over 70% of its American-sourced ingredients without raising prices for at least the next two years. The decision to move away from American suppliers comes amidst the ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States. CEO Ashley Chapman revealed that the company initiated the search for alternative suppliers in March 2025, following the imposition of tariffs by the Trump administration.
The company is on track to replace the majority of its American ingredients with Canadian or non-U.S. sources by mid-2027. A significant shift involves the production of sugar cones, for which Chapman’s has partnered with Original Foods, a company based in Dunville, Ontario. Original Foods will manufacture the sugar cones for Chapman’s, marking the establishment of a fully Canadian cone line.
President Steeve Tremblay of Original Foods emphasized the importance of local manufacturing to bolster the Canadian economy. The partnership between the two companies has already been formalized, with equipment procurement underway. However, delays have been encountered due to Canada’s regulatory requirements, leading Tremblay to advocate for streamlining processes to facilitate smoother operations.
Chapman’s is also diversifying its ingredient sources, sourcing almonds from Australia and cherries from Chile. This strategic shift is part of a broader trend among Canadian companies prompted by the trade dispute to reassess their domestic production capabilities. Chapman expressed optimism about the long-term viability of these changes and emphasized the company’s commitment to utilizing 100% Canadian dairy in its ice cream products.
The company is also focused on enhancing production efficiency to manage costs effectively. Chapman highlighted the unexpected affordability of sourcing certain ingredients internationally, citing the example of almonds from Australia being more cost-effective than those from the United States. These efforts reflect a broader trend in the Canadian business landscape towards greater self-sufficiency and cost optimization.
Chapman’s emphasized that these changes are part of a strategic, sustainable approach, including a five-year contract for Canadian-made cones. The company remains resolute in navigating the challenges posed by the trade dispute, confident in its ability to adapt and thrive in the evolving market landscape.