Introduction
A confluence of macro-economic factors is driving the global hemp-derived CBD market into 2024. Extraction and formulation processes are being improved, enhancing the quality and efficacy of products. Regulatory frameworks are evolving, determining access to and compliance with the market. Consumer preferences are changing, demonstrating a growing desire for natural and health-focused products. These trends are strategically important for market participants, determining not only how they compete but also how they develop and market their products in an increasingly crowded market.
Top Trends
- Increased Regulatory Clarity
Increasingly governments are establishing clearer regulations for the CBD products, which will increase the market stability. By mid-2020, for example, the FDA expects to have established guidelines for the use of CBD in food and beverages. This clarity in the regulations is expected to lead to an increase in the number of companies entering the market and thus to a higher competition. Also, the companies will have to invest in compliance with these regulations, which will increase the operational costs. And in the future it may be that the quality of the products will be controlled more strictly to ensure the safety of consumers.
- Rise of Full-Spectrum Products
Full-spectrum CBD products are gaining in popularity because of their supposedly enhanced therapeutic effects. A report from Grand View Research* predicts a 30% increase in the market share of full-spectrum CBD products by 2023. Companies are therefore diversifying their product ranges, which can result in higher production costs. In the future, it will be necessary to develop extraction methods that will optimize the cannabinoid profiles of products.
- Focus on Sustainability
Sustainability is increasingly becoming the industry's concern. Companies are adopting eco-friendly practices. Some, for instance, are now growing crops organically. This has been shown to increase consumers' trust in the brand by as much as 25%. The trend is pushing companies to invest in sustainable sourcing and packaging, which has a knock-on effect on their business strategies. Future developments may include alliances with green organizations to enhance brand reputation.
- Expansion of CBD in Food and Beverages
By 2023, the number of products containing CBD will have grown by 40 per cent. Major brands have launched CBD-enriched snacks and drinks, which are in response to consumers’ demand for ‘functional foods’. This trend has led to new developments and is a potential opportunity for new market segments. The future may see the development of unique products enriched with CBD in collaboration with food manufacturers.
- Growth of Online Sales Channels
CBD sales have soared on the Internet, with e-commerce accounting for more than 60 percent of total sales in 2023. Directing consumers to their products and services via digital marketing strategies increases brand visibility. Consequently, as the retail landscape shifts, the traditional business model will have to adapt to the new way of buying. Artificial intelligence will help optimize sales strategies.
- Increased Focus on Health and Wellness
Health and well-being are the two main drivers of demand for CBD, with a majority of consumers (70 %) citing the health benefits as the main reason for purchase. Companies are promoting the therapeutic benefits of CBD in their marketing. This trend is driving up R&D investment to validate the health claims. There may be a need for more clinical trials in the future to support the claims.
- Emergence of CBD for Pets
CBD for animals is a growing market, with an estimated 50% increase in pet products by 2023. Companies are developing specialized formulations for pet health issues, a trend that reflects the growing demand for these products. This trend has prompted companies to explore new distribution channels, such as veterinary clinics. Future developments may include regulatory approval for pet-specific CBD products.
- Innovations in Delivery Methods
Hemp is the most common source of CBD. There are many new ways to use CBD. There are gummies, beverages and topical applications. New formats have increased consumer interest in CBD by 35%. This interest encourages companies to invest in R&D to develop new products. There may be a future in the development of nanoemulsions for improved bioavailability.
- Personalization of CBD Products
Customized CBD products are becoming more common, with companies offering to tailor a formulation to the needs of individuals. This trend is fueled by the desire of consumers for a health solution that is suited to their personal needs. According to a survey, 45 per cent of consumers would like to have a tailored solution. These offerings are now being emphasized in marketing, which has a bearing on the development of products. Artificial intelligence may be used to provide a more individualized CBD experience in the future.
- Increased Investment in Research
CBD research is booming. In 2023, the amount of money spent on clinical trials will rise by 60 percent. The pharmaceutical industry is collaborating with research institutions to explore the potential of CBD in treating a wide range of diseases, and these collaborations will influence product development. This trend will likely increase the credibility of CBD products in the market. In the future, it may lead to the development of more scientifically rigorous standards for product claims.
Conclusion: Navigating the CBD Hemp Oil Landscape
During 2024, the CBD hemp oil market will be characterized by intense competition and considerable fragmentation. Both the big players and the new entrants will compete for the market share. Regional trends show that the consumers are becoming more interested in the sustainable and socially responsible products, and this will force the vendors to adapt their strategies. The big companies will have to rely on their established reputations while they are investing in automation and artificial intelligence to improve their operational efficiency and customer relations. The new entrants will have to rely on their agility and the innovation of their products to capture the niche market. In the future, the capabilities in automation, artificial intelligence, and sustainable production will be the most important for the companies that want to thrive in the rapidly changing market.