Nestlé Partners with Starbucks to Launch High-end Ice Cream Market

After completing the acquisition of all the business of the US’s largest ice cream maker, Dreer, in January this year, Nestlé is preparing to develop high-end ice cream business in the Chinese market. Nestle may choose to partner with Starbucks to introduce high-end ice cream.

In the face of such rumors, Nestlé China has not denied it. “At present, we have not announced cooperation with Starbucks in China, but the final answer will soon be revealed,” said Ken Doleson, president of Nestle's Greater China ice cream business.

Dong Haoqin told reporters that, in fact, Starbucks's ice cream sales in the United States are operated through Dreier's channels. At present, after Nestlé acquires Dreier’s brand and all distribution channels, the ice cream used in the US Starbucks is essentially It is already provided by Nestlé.

As for the cooperation of China, Nestlé is quite cautious, saying that the current rumors are spread through informal channels.

According to Liu Zhuxi, general manager of Nestlé Ice Cream Huadong District, Dreer is currently only available in Guangzhou, China. Now, Nestlé has acquired Dreier brands including China, together with sales channels.

Although Nestlé has not positively acknowledged its cooperation with Starbucks, in fact, Nestlé’s sales of ice cream through catering channels in China have been very successful. "Using this distribution method, although we may not be the only one, it is certainly the earliest one." Liu Zhuxi said.