The Confectionery Market was valued at USD 279.68 Billion in 2024. The Confectionery Market industry is projected to grow from USD 301.27 Billion in 2025 to USD 590.03 Billion by 2035, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.32% during the forecast period (2025-2035).
Consumers snacking and premiumization and growing investment and funding and product launch and innovation in product development are driving the growth of the Confectionery Market.
As per the Analyst at MRFR, the Confectionery Market is experiencing robust growth, driven by two key trends: the increasing consumer preference for snacking and the rise of premiumization. Younger consumers are embracing convenient, indulgent snacks throughout the day, while the demand for high-quality, artisanal, and gourmet confectionery products is enhancing the market's overall value. Emerging markets in regions such as Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and Africa are also contributing significantly to this growth as disposable incomes rise, and lifestyles evolve.
FIGURE 1: CONFECTIONERY MARKET VALUE (2019-2035) USD BILLION
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Confectionery Market Opportunity
RISING POPULARITY OF VEGAN AND LOW SUGAR SUBSTITUTES
The rising popularity of vegan and low-sugar substitutes is creating significant opportunities in the Confectionery Market. As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, there is a growing demand for products that cater to specific dietary preferences, such as plant-based and low-sugar options. Vegan substitutes, such as plant-based milk, dairy-free fats, and natural sweeteners, are increasingly being used in confectionery products to meet the needs of vegan and lactose-intolerant consumers.
For instance, in October 2021, Cadbury introduced the Plant Bar, a vegan version of Dairy Milk, made with almond paste and available in Smooth Chocolate and Smooth Chocolate with Salted Caramel. Certified vegan and with plant-based packaging, it catered to the growing vegan market while supporting sustainability. The company also focused on low-sugar options using ingredients like stevia and monk fruit.
Moreover, in August 2022, Nestlé launched KitKat V, a vegan version of the iconic treat, across 15 European countries after successful tests in 2021. Made with plant-based ingredients, rice milk, and sustainably sourced cocoa, it was certified vegan and produced in Germany, reflecting the rising demand for plant-based products.
This trend has prompted confectionery manufacturers to innovate and expand their product lines, offering healthier alternatives that appeal to a wider range of consumers. For instance, in December 2023, Oobli launched the world’s first low-sugar milk chocolate bars made without artificial sweeteners. Using sweet proteins from rare fruits, these bars contain 70% less sugar than traditional milk chocolate and just 1g of added sugar per serving, while not affecting blood sugar or gut health. Oobli also expanded its dark chocolate line with four new flavors, continuing its focus on healthier, low-sugar options without compromising on taste.
Moreover, September 2020, KOHLER Original Recipe Chocolates has introduced its first sugar-free handcrafted milk chocolate, Incredible Sugar-Free Chocolate, available in two-piece, four-piece, and nine-piece sizes. Each piece features a blend of sugar-free milk chocolate and vanilla syrup, coated in a 41% cacao sugar-free shell. The result is a premium, decadent chocolate made from health-conscious ingredients. Todd Mullane, Director of Sales, emphasized that this product offers a healthier option without sacrificing taste.
As a result, the Confectionery Market is evolving to include more diverse, nutritious, and sustainable options, opening new revenue streams and allowing brands to tap into previously underserved consumer segments.
Confectionery Market Segment Insights
Confectionery System by Product Type Insights
Based on Product Type, this segment includes Chocolate, Confectionery, Sugar Confectionery, Bakers Confectionery. The Chocolate Confectionery segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Sugar Confectionery segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. The chocolate confectionery market is a vibrant and indulgent sector, characterized by a wide array of luxurious and delectable products such as chocolate bars, truffles, pralines, and various chocolate sweets. Each product segment offers unique experiences that captivate a diverse range of consumers.
Chocolate bars, often seen as the quintessential treat, are available in countless variations, from classic milk and dark chocolate to more exotic flavors such as sea salt caramel or spiced orange, catering to both traditional tastes and adventurous palates. Meanwhile, chocolate sweets, which include bite-sized bonbons, chocolate-covered fruits, and assorted fillings, provide an array of bite-sized pleasures perfect for gifting or personal enjoyment.
FIGURE 2: CONFECTIONERY MARKET SHARE BY PRODUCT TYPE 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review
Confectionery System by Distribution Channel Insights
Based on Distribution Channel, this segment includes Offline and Online. The Offline segment dominated the global market in 2024, while the Online segment is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. In the confectionery market, offline distribution channels play a crucial role in reaching a broad consumer base and ensuring product availability across diverse retail settings.
Traditional brick-and-mortar stores, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores, remain dominant in the distribution of confectionery products. For instance, according to the National Confectioners Association, in the US, around 58% of shoppers purchase confectionery in store only. On the other hand, only 5% shop online only. Moreover, 36% of consumers shop both online and in-store. These retailers provide consumers with easy access to a wide range of confectionery options, from chocolate bars and candies to baked goods and gourmet sweets, often placed in high-traffic areas for maximum visibility.
Confectionery System Regional Insights
Based on the Region, the global Confectionery is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America and Middle East & Africa. The Europe dominated the global market in 2024, while the Asia-Pacific is projected to be the fastest–growing segment during the forecast period. Major demand factors driving the Europe market are Consumers snacking and premiumization and growing investment and funding and product launch and innovation in product development. The European confectionery market is shaped by several important trends. Health-conscious consumers are increasingly looking for healthier confectionery, such as low-sugar, gluten-free, and products with added health benefits like vitamins or adaptogens.
At the same time, there is a growing preference for premium products, with consumers willing to pay more for high-quality, artisanal, and premium confectionery products made with superior ingredients. Ethical sourcing and sustainability have also become significant concerns, leading brands to adopt responsible practices like fair-trade cocoa and eco-friendly packaging. Flavor innovation is key, with consumers seeking bold, adventurous tastes, pushing companies to explore exotic ingredients and create unique offerings. Convenience is another driver, as more people opt for individually packaged and single-serve snacks. Lastly, online shopping has become an essential way for consumers to discover and buy a wide range of products, including specialty and premium items.
FIGURE 3: CONFECTIONERY MARKET VALUE BY REGION 2024 AND 2035 (USD BILLION)
Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, MRFR Database, and Analyst Review
Further, the countries considered in the scope of the Application Tracking System Market are the US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, the UK, Italy, Spain, France, Poland, Russia, Finland, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia & New Zealand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brazil, Argentina, GCC Countries, South Africa and others.
Global Confectionery Key Market Players & Competitive Insights
Many global, regional, and local vendors characterize the Confectionery Market. The market is highly competitive, with all the players competing to gain market share. Intense competition, rapid advances in technology, frequent changes in government policies, and environmental regulations are key factors that confront market growth. The vendors compete based on cost, product quality, reliability, and government regulations. Vendors must provide cost-efficient, high-quality products to survive and succeed in an intensely competitive market.
The major competitors in the market are MondelÄ“z International, Inc., Nestlé, Ferrero Group, Mars, HARIBO GmbH & Co., Lotte, Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd., The Hershey Company, Perfetti Van Melle, Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprüngli AG are among others. The Confectionery Market is a consolidated market due to increasing competition, acquisitions, mergers and other strategic market developments and decisions to improve operational effectiveness.
Key Companies in the Confectionery Market include
Confectionery Market Industry Developments
May 2024: Lindt & Sprüngli opened plant extension in Olten, Switzerland. The plant produces cocoa mass for several Lindt & Sprüngli production sites in Europe.
August 2024: South Korean confectionery company, Lotte Wellfood, announced the merger of its Indian subsidiaries Lotte India and Havmor Ice Cream to establish an integrated entity.
November 2024: Kit Kat and Jolly Rancher brands partnered with Nintendo of America to Power-Up Family Game Time. New, limited-edition Kit Kat bars and Jolly Rancher Gummies packages are now in store shelves nationwide, featuring fan-favourite characters from the Super Mario Bros.
November 2020: Meiji established ice cream production base in China, responding to expansion of Chinese Ice Cream Market.
Confectionery Market Segmentation
Confectionery by Product Type Outlook
Confectionery by Distribution Channel Outlook
Confectionery Regional Outlook
| Report Attribute/Metric | Details |
| Market Size 2024 | USD 279.68 Billion |
| Market Size 2025 | USD 301.27 Billion |
| Market Size 2035 | USD 590.03 Billion |
| Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) | 6.32% (2025-2035) |
| Base Year | 2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2035 |
| Historical Data | 2019-2023 |
| Forecast Units | Value (USD Billion) |
| Report Coverage | Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends |
| Segments Covered | By Product Type, By Distribution Channel |
| Geographies Covered | North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, Middle East & Africa |
| Countries Covered | The US, Canada, Mexico, Germany, the UK, Italy, Spain, France, Poland, Russia, Finland, China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia & New Zealand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Brazil, Argentina, GCC Countries, South Africa. |
| Key Companies Profiled | Mondelēz International, Inc., Nestlé, Ferrero Group, Mars, HARIBO GmbH & Co., Lotte, Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd., The Hershey Company, Perfetti Van Melle, Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprüngli AG |
| Key Market Opportunities | ·        Rising popularity of Vegan and low sugar substitutes ·        E-commerce Expansion ·        Digital and Social Media Engagement ·        Sustainability trends |
| Key Market Dynamics | ·        Consumers snacking and premiumization ·        Growing investment and funding ·        Product launch and Innovation in Product Development |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
USD 279.68 Billion is the Confectionery Market in 2024
The Chocolate Confectionery segment by Product Type holds the largest market share and grows at a CAGR of 5.96 % during the forecast period.
Europe holds the largest market share in the Confectionery Market.
Mondelēz International, Inc., Nestlé, Ferrero Group, Mars, HARIBO GmbH & Co., Lotte, Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd., The Hershey Company, Perfetti Van Melle, Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprüngli AG are prominent players in the Confectionery Market.
The Offline segment dominated the market in 2024.
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Senior Research Analyst I have a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and an mba. i have more than two years of expertise in the retail, food, and beverage, chemical, and material industries, and hence have developed a sound cross-domain expertise. a firm believer in lifelong learning and sharing of knowledge. having a proclivity for hatching ideas and trying to absorb as much information as possible in a short amount of time. introducing corporates to the data and insight, which enables them to move from probability to possibility, has been my key areas of interest.Â
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