Industry Leaders and Rising Stars Recognised at Prestigious 2025 Ice Cream Alliance Awards

This year’s ceremony marked over 80 years of the awards’ legacy in recognising quality, innovation, and industry craftsmanship. Judging remains stringent, with results kept confidential until their official reveal during the ceremony.
Opening the evening, ICA President David Otterburn underlined the association’s evolving role in a changing market. “This is a very special association. While rooted in business, it remains a deeply personal community. Our mission is to ensure relevance for new entrants in the worlds of ice cream, gelato, and foodservice machinery — and to support future generations.”
The event was sponsored by Cadbury Flake 99, reaffirming its historic association with the ice cream trade. A brand representative noted: “The ice cream industry is like a big family — and so is Cadbury. We’re proud to be part of this occasion.”
Key Highlights and Award Winners:
-
National Champion: Morelli Ice Cream – also taking home awards in the Dairy, Alternative, and Best Vanilla categories.
-
Parlour of the Year: Otter Valley Ice Cream & Field Kitchen
-
Mobiler of the Year – Champion of Champions: Ian Smith, Mr Whippy Leeds
-
Outstanding Contribution: Calogero "Charlie" Mancuso, Stella Ice Cream
-
Rising Star: Michelina Caliendo, Caliendo’s Gelato
Other winners included:
-
Lick Gelato (Best of Flavour, Open Flavour, 1st Flavour Class)
-
Fochabers Ice Cream Parlour (Artistic Class Mini & Large)
-
G Porrelli & Co Ltd (1st Sorbet Class – Passionfruit)
-
Donald Morrison, James Rizza & Sons Ltd, Tarr’s Ice Cream Ltd, Luca’s Gelato, Mediterranean Ices, Glaslyn Ltd, and Cremo Linea by Takeaway Supplies Ltd across multiple categories.
The Ice Cream Alliance represents the UK’s £1.4 billion ice cream sector, offering advocacy, networking, and market intelligence to help businesses innovate and scale. The association also organises the Ice Cream & Artisan Food Show, held annually at the NEC, providing a vital platform for engagement, education, and showcasing industry trends.