The most anticipated event in the UK ice cream industry calendar has arrived. The Ice Cream Alliance proudly hosted the 2025 Ice Cream Awards Dinner, celebrating the finest talents and businesses shaping the sector. This prestigious evening honoured the winners of the National Competition, Parlour of the Year, and Mobiler of the Year, recognising excellence in quality, innovation and craftsmanship.
For over 80 years, the Ice Cream Awards have upheld a rigorous judging process. The results, verified and kept secret until the big night, were finally unveiled in a dazzling celebration of dedication and talent.
David Otterburn, the association’s president, opened proceedings with a few words. “This is a very special association, which, although is business-oriented, is also very personal. This is something which makes the ICA stand out from other trade bodies.”
He added, “This is an exciting time to get involved in ICA. As with many other trade associations, we have to look at how we operate and how we can be relevant to the new people entering the world of ice cream, gelato, ice lollies and machinery, and for future generations who will hopefully follow our footsteps.”
The event was sponsored by Cadbury Flake 99, an iconic and nostalgic combination with ice cream. Highlighting their commitment to the industry they commented, “This is a big opportunity for us to get more involved in the community. The ice cream industry is just one big family. Obviously, Cadbury’s origins are from a family as well, so it’s lovely for us to take part in.”
Held at the elegant Belfry Hotel & Resort in Birmingham, the event welcomed top professionals from across the sector. Among the evening’s standout moments:
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Michelina Caliendo of Caliendo’s Gelato was recognised as a rising star in the industry.
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Calogero “Charlie” Mancuso of Stella Ice Cream received a lifetime achievement award for his outstanding contribution.
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Leeds’ Ian Smith of Mr Whippy Leeds claimed the first-ever Mobiler of the Year – Champion of Champions, awarded to the best mobile ice cream business from the past 15 years of winners.
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Otter Valley Ice Cream & Field Kitchen was officially presented as Parlour of the Year 2024.
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Morelli Ice Cream from Northern Ireland had a remarkable night, taking home four awards, including Dairy Ice Cream Class, Alternative Class, Best of Vanilla, and National Champion.
The winners in each category are as follows:
Parlour of the Year 2024: Otter Valley Ice Cream & Field Kitchen
Mobiler of the Year – Champion of Champions: Ian Smith of Mr Whippy Leeds
Marvin Benton – Outstanding Contribution to the Industry: Calogero “Charlie” Mancuso
Guido Morelli – Rising Star in Our Industry: Michelina Caliendo
National Champion: Morelli Ice Cream
Best of Flavour: Lick Gelato
Artistic Class Mini: Fochabers Ice Cream Parlour
Artistic Class Large: Fochabers Ice Cream Parlour
1st Flavour Class: Lick Gelato
2nd Flavour Class – Chocolate: Glaslyn Ltd
Dairy Ice Cream Class: Morelli Ice Cream
1st Sorbet Class – Passionfruit: G Porrelli & Co Ltd
Open Flavour Class: Lick Gelato
Best of Vanilla: Morelli Ice Cream
Open Ice Cream – Vanilla: Donald Morrison, James Rizza & Sons Ltd
Ice Cream – Vanilla: Tarr’s Ice Cream Ltd
Newcomer – Vanilla: Luca’s Gelato
Soft Serve: Mediterranean Ices
Alternative Class: Morelli Ice Cream
Supply House Class – Mango, Dairy Ice Cream: Cremo Linea by Takeaway Supplies Ltd
With another successful awards evening in the books, the Ice Cream Alliance continues to champion creativity and craftsmanship, ensuring a deliciously bright future for all.
