Magnum Ice Cream (LSE:MICC) reported stronger-than-expected first-half core earnings on Thursday, supported by ongoing cost-saving initiatives introduced following its separation from Unilever in December. The company also said momentum has continued into the crucial summer trading period.
Second-quarter 2026 sales of Ben & Jerry’s increased 9.2%, outperforming the wider North American ice cream market while continuing to gain market share, according to the company.
“Our key summer selling season got off to a strong start,” CEO Peter ter Kulve said in a press release. “We grew and gained share in all regions, including the U.S., our biggest market.”
Summer Trading and Cost Savings Support Performance
Magnum said its first-half earnings benefited from lower supply chain costs and savings generated through its corporate transformation programme, helping improve profitability following the spin-off.
The company’s adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) increased to €880 million ($1.0 billion), compared with €853 million in the same period last year. The result exceeded the analyst consensus forecast of €843 million compiled by the company.
Spin-Off Performance Remains Under Scrutiny
Since its Amsterdam listing, Magnum Ice Cream has attracted investor attention as the first major test of its ability to accelerate growth as an independent business. The company is seeking to strengthen sales of brands including Magnum, Cornetto and Ben & Jerry’s while navigating changing consumer preferences.
The business also faces a shifting market environment as the growing popularity of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs influences eating habits, while the Trump administration’s “Make America Healthy Again” campaign continues to shape the consumer health debate in the United States.
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