Japanese confectionery giant Thai Glico has announced plans to end the sale of its ice cream products in Thailand by late 2025, citing strategic considerations, shifting market trends, and the company’s long-term direction.
In a post shared on its official “Glico TH” Facebook page on Thursday, the company confirmed that its ice cream line would be discontinued in Thailand, though products will remain available for purchase through the end of the year.
Glico also assured that its other product lines will continue to be sold in the country.
According to a report by Krungthep Turakij, Thai Glico described the move as a strategic adjustment based on recent market developments, historical performance, and future business goals.
The decision comes as the company looks to reallocate resources and focus on other growth opportunities in the region.
Glico’s ice cream operations in Thailand have been managed under an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) model, relying on local factories for production.
Financial records submitted by Thai Glico to the Department of Business Development (DBD) highlight the company’s fluctuating performance in recent years.
In 2020, the company reported total revenue of 3.91 billion baht and a net profit of 394.58 million baht. This was followed by revenue of 4.15 billion baht and a profit of 179.44 million baht in 2021.
In 2022, revenue increased to 4.89 billion baht, but the company posted a slight net loss of 1.27 million baht. Losses deepened in 2023, with revenue falling to 3.49 billion baht and a net loss of 112.94 million baht.
In 2024, the company bounced back slightly, recording revenue of 3.52 billion baht and a net profit of 67.35 million baht.
Once a viral sensation in Thailand, Glico’s ice cream gained a strong following in the past decade, with its signature cones often selling out amid high demand and social media buzz. Some flavours even sparked long queues and occasional customer frenzies.
However, Thailand’s ice cream market has undergone significant changes in recent years. The rise of new competitors, especially in the soft-serve segment, has transformed consumer preferences.
Meanwhile, local Thai-owned brands have ramped up marketing campaigns, intensifying competition and shifting the landscape.
As Thai Glico prepares to wind down its ice cream operations, the company says it will explore new ways to bring value to Thai consumers in the future.
