North America Retail Cooler Market Summary

The North America retail cooler market size was estimated at USD 1.65 billion in 2024 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3% from 2025 to 2030. The rising popularity of outdoor activities, coupled with increasing disposable incomes and a growing focus on family-oriented recreational experiences, is propelling the demand for retail coolers across the region. The surge in interest in outdoor recreational pursuits in the United States and Canada has significantly contributed to the expansion of this market.

The noticeable increase in first-time participants engaging in outdoor activities reflects a broader societal shift toward active, nature-based lifestyles. In 2023 alone, approximately 7.7 million Americans participated in outdoor recreation for the first time, indicating a strong emerging market for entry-level and versatile outdoor gear. Consumers new to camping or hiking often seek reliable, feature-rich equipment such as coolers with superior ice retention, ease of mobility, and robust construction. These evolving expectations are creating ample opportunities for cooler manufacturers to capture and retain a wider, more diverse customer base.

Key Market Trends & Insights

• Hard-sided retail coolers dominated the market, accounting for a revenue share of 73.52% in the North America retail cooler industry in 2024. The rising interest in adventure travel and rugged outdoor excursions has driven demand for these durable and long-lasting coolers. Their ability to maintain low temperatures for extended periods and withstand harsh environments makes them particularly attractive to outdoor enthusiasts.
• Upper mid-range coolers held a revenue share of 33.12% in 2024. These coolers are popular among seasoned campers, anglers, and tailgaters due to their performance-oriented features. These include rotomolded construction, heavy-duty insulation, and secure latching systems that preserve ice retention for multiple days, even under hot weather conditions. These coolers balance affordability and durability, making them ideal for multi-day adventures.
• Retail coolers with a capacity between 50 to 100 quarts contributed to 31.06% of the revenue share in 2024. Their popularity stems from their ability to cater to both large families and group gatherings, offering the volume necessary for extended trips without compromising on portability or efficiency. This size range provides a practical solution for consumers seeking generous storage and reliable thermal performance.
• Camping and hiking applications accounted for the largest market share of 43.55% in 2024. The increase in camping activities across North America, especially after the pandemic, has played a pivotal role in driving this segment. As reported by Camper Champ, over 87.99 million individuals in North America participated in camping in 2023, with 5.5 million of them being first-time campers. This trend highlights the growing affinity for nature-centric activities and the accompanying demand for reliable gear such as coolers.
• Offline sales dominated the retail channel segment, contributing 75.67% of the market in 2024. Despite the rising adoption of online platforms, many consumers prefer purchasing retail coolers in physical stores where they can physically evaluate the product’s quality, size, and features. This in-store shopping experience also allows for personalized consultation and immediate product comparison, influencing purchasing decisions.
• The U.S. retail cooler market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.2% from 2025 to 2030. Growth in the U.S. market is largely fueled by evolving consumer preferences and increased engagement in recreational outdoor activities. Coolers are no longer viewed merely as food storage containers but as critical gear that supports extended outdoor living and leisure experiences.
• Canada’s retail cooler market is anticipated to grow at a slightly higher CAGR of 7.7% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is driven by an uptick in outdoor pursuits such as camping, hiking, and fishing, particularly in warmer seasons. The increased appreciation for natural landscapes and experiences among Canadians is boosting demand for reliable, user-friendly, and high-capacity coolers tailored to rugged conditions.

Order a free sample PDF of the North America Retail Cooler Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 1.65 billion
• 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 2.51 billion
• CAGR (2025-2030): 7.3%
• US.: Largest market in 2024

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The North America retail cooler industry is fragmented primarily due to the presence of several globally recognized players as well as regional/local players. Some prominent companies in this market are YETI COOLERS, LLC., RTIC Outdoors LLC, Pelican Products, Inc., Igloo Products Corp., The Coleman Company Inc., ORCA (Outdoor Recreation Company of America), and others.

• YETI COOLERS, LLC is a premium outdoor products company headquartered in Austin, Texas, renowned for its high-performance, durable coolers and lifestyle gear designed for outdoor enthusiasts. The company operates across multiple business units, including Hard Coolers, Soft Coolers, Drinkware, Bags, and Outdoor Accessories. The company offers a wide range of products, such as the iconic Tundra hard coolers, Roadie personal coolers, Hopper soft-sided coolers, and compact Trip lunch bags.
• The Coleman Company Inc., a subsidiary of Newell Brands, is a well-established American manufacturer specializing in outdoor recreation products. The company operates through multiple business units in Chicago, including outdoor gear, camping equipment, and recreational products. Its product portfolio encompasses tents, sleeping bags, lanterns, stoves, and portable appliances. 

Key Players

• YETI COOLERS, LLC
• RTIC Outdoors LLC
• Pelican Products, Inc.
• Igloo Products Corp.
• The Coleman Company Inc.
• ORCA (Outdoor Recreation Company of America)
• Chilly Moose Ltd.
• Grizzly Coolers
• California Innovations Inc. (Arctic Zone Products)
• Engel Coolers

Browse Horizon Databook on North America Retail Cooler Market – North America Retail Cooler Size & Outlook

Conclusion

The North America retail cooler market continues to expand as outdoor recreational activities gain traction among a diverse group of consumers. Increasing disposable income, lifestyle shifts favoring nature-based leisure, and the rise of first-time outdoor participants are fueling demand for durable and performance-driven coolers. Products that blend functionality, convenience, and portability are being favored, especially in key markets such as the U.S. and Canada. Offline retail dominance and innovations in mid-range and high-capacity coolers further bolster growth. As consumer expectations evolve, manufacturers are well-positioned to cater to emerging preferences, driving sustainable expansion of the retail cooler market through 2030.