Chapman’s Ice Cream, a company based in Ontario, has announced plans to replace over 70% of its American ingredients with Canadian or non-U.S. sources without raising prices for its products until March 2028. This decision comes amidst the ongoing trade tensions between Canada and the United States.
The CEO of Chapman’s Ice Cream, Ashley Chapman, revealed that the company began seeking alternatives to American suppliers in response to the initial round of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration in March 2025. Chapman emphasized the company’s commitment to maintaining stable prices and its proactive efforts in diversifying its ingredient sourcing.
A significant change in Chapman’s ingredient supply chain involves sugar cones, a product not currently produced in Canada. To address this gap, Chapman’s has partnered with Original Foods, a company based in Dunville, Ontario, to manufacture sugar cones domestically. This collaboration will make Chapman’s the sole Canadian company with a 100% Canadian cone line.
Steeve Tremblay, president of Original Foods Limited, expressed pride in supporting local manufacturing and strengthening the Canadian economy through the partnership with Chapman’s. Despite encountering delays related to regulatory requirements, both companies have finalized their agreement, with the necessary equipment procured from Germany.
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. These strategic moves align with the company’s goal of reducing reliance on American suppliers and enhancing domestic production capabilities.
The trade dispute between Canada and the U.S. has prompted a broader reevaluation of domestic production practices among Canadian companies, according to Chapman. He highlighted the unexpected affordability of sourcing certain ingredients from countries like Australia, underscoring the new opportunities arising from diversifying the supply chain.
Chapman affirmed that some of the sourcing changes represent long-term commitments, such as the five-year contract for Canadian-made cones. The company is also focused on optimizing production efficiency to manage costs effectively while maintaining its commitment to using 100% Canadian dairy in its ice cream products.
Overall, Chapman’s Ice Cream remains optimistic about navigating the challenges posed by the trade dispute and is dedicated to sustaining its operations with a strengthened focus on domestic sourcing and production.
