Choosing between small ice cream tubs and large ice cream tubs depends a lot on who your customers are and how they enjoy your product. Every brand has different goals—some focus on takeaway, some on retail, and some on events. By picking the right tub size, you can improve customer satisfaction and boost your sales.

Benefits of Small Ice Cream Tubs

Small tubs, often called ice cream tubs individual, are perfect for single servings. Customers love them because they are convenient, clean, and easy to carry. These tubs work great for cafés, dessert shops, food trucks, and events like parties or festivals. They allow people to enjoy their ice cream without needing to share or worry about storage.

Small tubs also reduce waste. People don’t need to buy more than they can eat. For brands, small tubs are great for flavour testing, limited editions, or sampler packs. When mixed with custom printing, small ice cream cups, ice cream pots, and tubs and containers become attractive branding tools.

Benefits of Large Ice Cream Tubs

Large tubs are designed for sharing, home use, and family enjoyment. Customers who prefer to buy in bulk often choose large ice cream tubs because they offer better value and last longer in the freezer. These tubs are popular in supermarkets, wholesalers, and delivery apps.

Large tubs allow brands to offer generous portions and affordable pricing. They also give more space for branding, ingredients, and storytelling. With custom printing, large tubs can look premium and build strong visibility in the freezer section.

When to Choose Small Ice Cream Tubs

Small tubs are the best choice if your brand focuses on:

• takeaway desserts

• ready-to-eat snacks

• sampling new flavours

• event catering

• on-the-go customers

• premium individual servings

If your shop sells a variety of flavours, individual ice cream tubs let customers try multiple options without too much cost. These small tubs also work perfectly with paper cup with paper lid designs, making them eco-friendly and practical.

When to Choose Large Ice Cream Tubs

Large tubs are right for brands focused on:

• supermarkets and retail shelves

• family-sized desserts

• online delivery

• budget-friendly portions

• sharing packs

They are ideal for classic flavours that customers buy regularly. Large tubs also work well with recyclable or compostable materials, making them a good option for eco-conscious brands offering packaged ice cream.

Blending Both Sizes for Maximum Reach

Many successful UK brands offer both small and large tubs to attract different types of buyers. For example:

• Use ice cream tubs individual for cafés and fast-moving outlets

• Use large ice cream tubs for supermarkets and family customers

• Use medium tubs for delivery services or multipacks

This combination helps you cover more market segments and increase your brand presence.

Custom Printing for Both Sizes

No matter the size, custom printing plays a major role in brand visibility. Beautiful designs on ice icecream packaging help you stand out. For small tubs, bright colours and fun themes work well. For large tubs, clean layouts and clear information attract families and retail shoppers.

Brands can highlight:

• ingredients

• sustainability

• local sourcing

• flavour story

• special offers

Printed packaging helps customers recognise your tubs instantly.

Material Matters for Both Small and Large Tubs

Today’s UK shoppers prefer eco-friendly options. That’s why both small and large tubs should ideally be made from:

• recyclable paper

• compostable coatings

• biodegradable materials

• sustainable fibreboard

Using greener options makes your tubs and containers more appealing and helps build trust with eco-aware customers.

Price and Portion Control

Small tubs help with portion control and reduce overconsumption. They are ideal for premium flavours where customers pay for quality, not quantity.
Large tubs offer better value, which suits families and budget shoppers.

By understanding your buyers, you can pick the size that fits their lifestyle and spending habits.

Flexibility for Business Growth

Choosing the right tub size can help your business grow faster. Small tubs support sampling and testing new flavours, while large tubs help build long-term customer loyalty. As your brand expands, having multiple sizes gives you more flexibility in marketing, retail placement, and distribution.

Final Thoughts

Both small ice cream tubs and large ice cream tubs offer unique benefits. Small tubs bring convenience, portion control and quick sales, while large tubs bring value, sharing, and strong retail presence. The best choice depends on your target audience, brand style, and selling strategy. Offering both sizes—with custom eco-friendly designs—can help you stand out, attract more customers, and grow your brand across the UK market.