Chapman’s Ice Cream, an Ontario-based company, has announced plans to replace over 70% of its American ingredients with Canadian or non-U.S. sources, amid the ongoing trade dispute between Canada and the United States. The family-owned company has committed not to raise its ice cream prices until March 2028.

CEO Ashley Chapman revealed that the company initiated the search for alternative suppliers to the U.S. in March 2025 when the initial round of tariffs was imposed by the Trump administration. Chapman emphasized the company’s dedication to this endeavor, stating, “We made a statement at that time that we weren’t raising prices and we were going to start this journey.” Chapman’s progress indicates that by mid-2027, they are on track to substitute more than 70% of their American ingredients and components.

A significant shift involves the sourcing of sugar cones, as there are no domestic producers of industrial sugar cones in Canada. In response, Chapman’s partnered with Original Foods, a Dunville, Ont.-based company, to establish a Canadian cone line. President Steeve Tremblay highlighted the significance of local manufacturing, stating, “It’s very rewarding to keep the jobs in Canada and make our economy stronger.”

Although delays have been experienced due to Canada’s electricity registration requirements and other bureaucratic hurdles, Chapman’s and Original Foods have finalized their agreement. Tremblay expressed intentions to reach out to other Canadian companies to promote more local partnerships.

Furthermore, Chapman’s is transitioning the production of wafers for its ice cream sandwiches to Canada and sourcing ingredients like almonds from Australia and cherries from Chile. Chapman emphasized the positive impact of these changes, remarking, “The first round last year of tariffs really opened the eyes of a lot of industry in Canada.”

The company remains committed to utilizing 100% Canadian dairy in its ice cream production and is focused on enhancing efficiency to manage costs effectively. Chapman expressed confidence in overcoming challenges, stating, “I am fully confident that we are going to make it to the other side of this.”