Sub-Zero Revolution: Polini Launches Aperitivo Classics in Frozen FormATS

Hot on the heels of alcohol-free Boero chocolates, a fresh wave of cross-category innovation is hitting the zero-alcohol space—this time invading the frozen snacks sector. Polini Group, a prominent player in the spirits, wine, and beverage landscape, has chosen to leverage its alcohol-free expertise to disrupt the frozen treats market.

Over the last few years, the ice cream and gelato sector has increasingly drawn the attention of broader food manufacturing categories—particularly the confectionery industry—as brands seek to launch summer-ready iterations of their core ranges. In this latest move, Polini is re-imagining traditional serves by altering their physical format, introducing the market’s first ice lollies, sorbets, and slushies based on its zero-ABV spirits line. The range launches in four flagship flavours: Myspritz, Limoncello, Amaro, and Gin Tonic.

The recipes were developed using the alcohol-free spirits line as a blueprint, utilizing a bespoke, tailored infusion process. For instance, the Myspritz and Limoncello ice lollies are crafted via the infusion of Sicilian orange and lemon peels. Furthermore, the entire range is free from artificial colorants and carries the Veganok certification.

Packaging Formats and Distribution Channels

To support distribution both in Italy and across international markets, Polini has tailored its commercial offering to target both at-home and out-of-home (OOH) consumption. The lineup features dedicated formats ranging from single 65g and 70g sticks up to large-format tubs.

In the retail channel, the range debuts in multipacks, including a 4-pack for the Sorbets, an 8-pack for the Myspritz ice lollies, and a 10-piece assorted variety pack featuring all four available flavours. For the Horeca sector (targeting bars and beach resorts), the company offers 24-unit cases, available as a single-flavour Myspritz option or as assorted cases of ice lollies and sorbets. Finally, for venues providing over-the-counter slushies and frozen drinks, Polini is supplying 3kg maxi-tubs for each of the four non-alcoholic variants.

“The market reception for the Frozen Zero-Alcohol range has been highly positive,” stated Gianluca Patania, Sales & Project Manager at Polini Group. “We are seeing strong traction both domestically and internationally—in markets including Germany, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Switzerland—across both retail and Horeca channels. From the end of June, we will kick off a promotional summer tour across various town squares and coastal resorts throughout the Italian peninsula, spanning seven regions: Lombardy, Piedmont, Liguria, Sardinia, Campania, Calabria, and Sicily.”

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