The 2025 Ice Cream Alliance awards night shines in UK
ICA
The Ice Cream Alliance hosted its 2025 Ice Cream Awards dinner in the UK, honouring the winners of the National Competition, Parlour of the Year, and Mobiler of the Year. David Otterburn, the association’s president, opened proceedings, saying, “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 in our footsteps.
The event was sponsored by Cadbury Flake 99, an iconic and nostalgic combination with ice cream. Highlighting its commitment to the industry, Cadbury’s representative said, “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 Belfry Hotel & Resort in Birmingham, the event welcomed professionals from across the sector. Among the evening’s standout moments were:
- Michelina Caliendo of Caliendo’s Gelato was recognised as a rising star in the industry.
- Calogero “Charlie” Mancuso of Stella Ice Cream received a lifetime achievement award for his outstanding contribution.
- 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.
- Otter Valley Ice Cream & Field Kitchen was officially presented as Parlour of the Year 2024.
- Morelli Ice Cream from Northen Ireland took home four awards, including Dairy Ice Cream Class, Alternative Class, Best of Vanilla, and National Champion.
