The United Kingdom Chocolate Market Report is Segmented by Product Type (Dark Chocolate, Milk and White Chocolate), Form (Tablets and Bars, and More), Price Range (Mass, Premium), Ingredient Type (Dairy-Based, Plant-Based, Single Origin), and Distribution Channel (Supermarket/Hypermarket, and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Both Value (USD) and Volume (Units).

The Chocolate and Confectionery Production industry can be divided into three categories: cocoa products, sugar confectionery products and chewing gum. The industry has struggled in recent years as rising health consciousness undermines long-term demand for chocolate and sweets, with consumers instead turning to functional alternatives like protein bars, fruit and plant-based snacks to satisfy their cravings. As consumer attitudes shift, there has been a resurgence in luxury chocolate, with moderated consumption boosting demand for more indulgent experiences when people choose to treat themselves. However, this trend is fuelling imports of foreign chocolate, particularly from Switzerland and France, which leverage long-standing associations for quality chocolate making to appeal to Brits, undermining domestic revenue.

Chocolate and Confectionery Production revenue is expected to swell at a compound annual rate of 0.6% to £4.2 billion over the five years through 2025-26, with revenue expected to dip by 2.9% in the current year. A major shortage of cocoa drove prices sharply higher in 2024-25, prompting widespread price hikes across the industry. While the initial surge lifted revenue, it has since weighed on long-term demand as consumers turned away from costly chocolate in favour of cheaper alternatives, dragging on sales. Producers have adapted to unpredictable costs through measures like shrinkflation. Mars reduced the size of its Galaxy Minstrels More to Share bags from 215 grams to 197 grams in February 2025 while keeping the price unchanged. Profit is expected to nudge upwards to 17.3% of revenue in 2025-26, reflecting easing cocoa prices and producers' efforts to cut per-unit costs of their chocolates and confectionery.

Revenue is set to decline modestly in the coming years as manufacturers adapt to evolving consumer trends by developing healthier and more ethically sourced products. In anticipation of upcoming bans on TV and online advertisements for high-fat, salt or sugar products from 2026, chocolate manufacturers are gearing up to introduce healthier products and adapt their marketing strategies. Companies will also stoke consumer demand through product innovation, especially in the market's premium segment, where customers perceive better value for money. A heightened focus on sustainability is also expected as the industry works to shed its negative environmental image and strengthen its appeal among increasingly eco-conscious consumers. Revenue is expected to push downwards at a compound annual rate of 0.4% over the five years through 2030-31 to £4.1 billion.

The UK Chocolate Market size was valued at USD 11240 Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 17990 Million by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.20">> 6.20 % during the forecast periods. Recent developments include: March 2023: Whitakers Chocolates unveiled its investment in enhancing its printing process and flow wrapping capabilities as it expands its chocolate production focused on private label ranges. The company’s launch product is a 90-gram flow wrap square pack of dark chocolate Fondant Creams.October 2022: Barry Callebaut introduced the second generation of chocolate. By design, the second generation of chocolate puts ‘cocoa first, sugar last.’ Dark chocolate is only made from cocoa and sugar; milk chocolate contains dairy as well.February 2022: Nestlé unveiled new chocolates and sweets, including KitKat Biscoff Giant Egg and Aero Melts. Nestlé unveiled an array of new goodies for chocolate and sweet lovers that will land on UK shelves.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing awareness towards fitness among consumers, Demand for convenient fortified foods. Potential restraints include: Increasing vegan culture in the market. Notable trends are: OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.

The UK Compound Chocolate Market report segments the industry into Product Type (Dark, Milk, White Chocolate), Form (Chocolate Chips/Drops/Chunks, Chocolate Slab, Chocolate Coatings, Other Forms), and Application (Bakery, Confectionery, Frozen Desserts & Ice Cream, Beverages, Cereals, Other Applications). Get five years of historical data alongside five-year market forecasts.

Forecast: Chocolate Confectionery Market Size Value in the UK 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Cadbury Dairy Milk was the leading brand of chocolate in the United Kingdom in 2024. In that year, the Mondelez brand sold nearly *** million British pounds worth of chocolate.

The size of the UK Chocolate Industry market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 3.32% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: June 2021: The Puratos, United Kingdom-based company, launched two new Belgian chocolate products with 40% less sugar than their previous offerings., April 2020: Brenntag Food & Nutrition and Cargill expanded their distribution relationship in the United Kingdom and Ireland to include cocoa and chocolate., January 2020: Swiss chocolate and cocoa products company Barry Callebaut has opened a new branch of its Chocolate Academy in Banbury, United Kingdom.. Key drivers for this market are: Wide Applications and Functionality, Demand For Gluten-Free Products. Potential restraints include: Easy Availability of Economically Feasible Alternatives. Notable trends are: Upsurge in Consumption of Bakery and Confectionery Products.

Discover the latest trends and insights into the booming UK chocolate market. This comprehensive analysis reveals market size, growth projections, key players, and segment performance, from dark and milk chocolate to various distribution channels. Learn how sustainability and innovation shape the future of UK chocolate consumption. Recent developments include: March 2023: Whitakers Chocolates unveiled its investment in enhancing its printing process and flow wrapping capabilities as it expands its chocolate production focused on private label ranges. The company’s launch product is a 90-gram flow wrap square pack of dark chocolate Fondant Creams.October 2022: Barry Callebaut introduced the second generation of chocolate. By design, the second generation of chocolate puts ‘cocoa first, sugar last.’ Dark chocolate is only made from cocoa and sugar; milk chocolate contains dairy as well.February 2022: Nestlé unveiled new chocolates and sweets, including KitKat Biscoff Giant Egg and Aero Melts. Nestlé unveiled an array of new goodies for chocolate and sweet lovers that will land on UK shelves.. Notable trends are: OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT.

Chocolate Confectionery Market Size Value in the UK, 2021 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Get key insights on Market Research Intellect's UK Private Label Chocolate Market Report: valued at USD 3.5 billion in 2024, set to grow steadily to USD 5.8 billion by 2033, recording a CAGR of 7.2%.Examine opportunities driven by end-user demand, R&D progress, and competitive strategies.

Europe has a robust chocolate and confectionery manufacturing sector owing to European consumers’ appetite for sweet treats. Europe is the world's leading producer and consumer of chocolate. The continent imported 58% of the world’s cocoa beans in 2023 and accounted for 76% of worldwide chocolate sales. Notably, renowned chocolate manufacturers from Belgium and Switzerland contribute significantly to this high export rate and together with Germany also lead in per-capita chocolate consumption. Consequently, the huge demand for chocolate within and outside Europe creates a profitable market for European manufacturers. The chocolate and confectionery industry faces challenges due to increasing sugar and cocoa prices. These rising costs have compelled European manufacturers to raise their selling prices. Although consumers continued to buy chocolate and sweets despite the price hikes, the growing cost of living threatens to reduce consumption. Statistics show that EU sugar prices alone rose by 80% in the year through June 2023, sparking attempts to minimise sugar usage in chocolate products. Nonetheless, the high price of chocolate has driven industry revenue growth of 0.1% over the five years through 2025, to reach €76.9 billion. Cocoa prices have dropped in 2025, contributing to a projected 1.1% drop in industry revenue. Confectionery manufacturers are set to implement healthier solutions and pursue more sustainable practices. An increased health awareness among European consumers threatens the consumption of sugary products like chocolate. However, it could also present an opportunity for healthier alternatives like dark chocolate, which contains less sugar. Ethical sourcing and sustainability are becoming more popular as consumers increasingly demand information about their chocolate's origin and production process. As a result, European chocolate manufacturers are keen on sourcing cocoa from sustainable farms and promoting transparency in their supply chains. Overall, industry revenue is forecast to grow at a compound annual rate of 2.6% over the five years through 2030 to reach €87.3 billion.

The United Kingdom Confectionery Market Report is Segmented by Type (Chocolate, Sugar Confectionery, Snack Bar and More), Packaging Type (Single-Serve and Multipacks), Price Tier (Mass and Premium) and Distribution Channels (Supermarket/Hypermarket, Online Retail Stores and More). The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD) and Volume (tonnes).

UK Chocolate Market size was valued at USD 11.81 Billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 18.03 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2026 to 2032.

UK Chocolate Market: Definition/ Overview

Chocolate is a confectionery product made from roasted and ground cacao seeds, which are processed with ingredients such as sugar, milk, and cocoa butter to create various formulations. It is widely classified, including milk, dark, and white chocolate, with applications spanning across industries such as confectionery, bakery, beverages, and cosmetics.

Growing consumer awareness of sustainability, health advantages, and high-quality ingredients has fueled the demand for luxury chocolate that is supplied ethically. Regulations encouraging healthy consumption habits and changing dietary tastes have sped up the adoption of plant-based and lower-sugar formulations.

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Chocolate Confectionery Market Size 2024-2028

The chocolate confectionery market size is valued to increase USD 31 billion, at a CAGR of 4.36% from 2023 to 2028. Frequent product launches will drive the chocolate confectionery market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

APAC dominated the market and accounted for a 33% growth during the forecast period.
By Product - Chocolate bars segment was valued at USD 50.50 billion in 2022
By Distribution Channel - Offline segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2022

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 45.58 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 31.00 billion
CAGR : 4.36%
APAC: Largest market in 2022

Market Summary

The market is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry, characterized by continuous innovation and consumer preferences. Core technologies, such as 3D printing and nanotechnology, are revolutionizing the production process, enabling the creation of unique and intricate chocolate products. Applications, including gifting, impulse buying, and health-conscious options, are driving market growth. Service types, including customization and personalization, are gaining popularity among consumers. Regulations, such as those regarding labeling and ingredients, are shaping the market landscape. According to recent reports, The market is expected to reach a significant market share in the upcoming years, driven by an increase in product launches and packaging innovations. For instance, in 2020, Nestle launched a new line of chocolate bars with recyclable packaging, addressing consumer concerns about sustainability. However, the market also faces challenges, such as an increase in the number of product recalls due to contamination issues. Despite these challenges, opportunities exist for companies to differentiate themselves through product quality, ethical sourcing, and sustainable practices.

What will be the Size of the Chocolate Confectionery Market during the forecast period?

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How is the Chocolate Confectionery Market Segmented and what are the key trends of market segmentation?

The chocolate confectionery industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments. ProductChocolate barsBoxed assortments and seasonal variantsOthersDistribution ChannelOfflineOnlineGeographyNorth AmericaUSEuropeGermanyUKAPACChinaIndiaRest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

The chocolate bars segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic and evolving the market, chocolate bars continue to dominate with a significant market share of 55.3% in 2023. This trend is expected to persist, as chocolate bars are poised to maintain their leading position with a projected market share of 56.8% by 2028. The chocolate bars segment encompasses countlines and molded bars. Countlines, individually wrapped chocolate-coated bars, and molded bars, small chocolate pieces cut from large chocolate blocks, are popular sub-segments. Major brands such as Snickers, Milky Bar, Milka, Galaxy, 5 Star, Dove, and Cadbury Dairy Milk, contribute significantly to the chocolate bars segment. Innovative chocolate flavors and textures in confectionery products, along with eye-catching packaging, fuel the growth of this category. Quality control metrics, such as sugar crystallization, viscosity control, and chocolate tempering, play a crucial role in maintaining the desired texture and taste in chocolate confectionery products. Ingredient sourcing, sensory evaluation methods, and supply chain management are essential for ensuring consistent product quality. Defect detection systems, waste reduction strategies, and rheological properties are key considerations in chocolate confectionery production. Ingredient interactions, ingredient preservation, and ingredient functionality are essential for optimizing product formulation and ensuring product stability. Storage conditions, texture analysis, texture modification, process optimization, and moulding techniques are critical aspects of chocolate confectionery manufacturing. Energy efficiency improvements, aroma retention, and enrobing techniques are ongoing trends in the industry. Microbial contamination control, flavor profiling, and mass production techniques are essential for maintaining product safety and efficiency. Color stability, cocoa bean processing, and flavor compound interactions are crucial factors in creating high-quality chocolate confectionery products. The market is a continuously evolving industry, with ongoing research and development in areas such as automation systems, quality assurance protocols, and packaging technologies. The

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Premium Chocolate Market Size 2024-2028

The Premium Chocolate Market size is forecast to increase by USD 20.8 billion, at a CAGR of 9.48% between 2023 and 2028. Market expansion hinges on various factors, notably the introduction of new products, heightened consumer engagement in the market, and the implementation of marketing strategies. New product launches inject innovation into the market, attracting consumer interest and driving demand for novel offerings. Additionally, increasing market indulgence, characterized by consumer willingness to explore diverse products and experiences, fosters market growth by expanding the consumer base and driving sales volume. The market thrives on exquisite ingredients like high-quality cocoa, gourmet salt, and luxurious packaging, elevating the consumer experience. With additional flavors such as almonds and raspberry pieces, brands like Purdys Chocolatier and Cadbury offer a range of indulgent options. Furthermore, effective marketing strategies play a pivotal role in creating brand awareness, communicating product benefits, and influencing consumer purchasing decisions. By leveraging innovative marketing approaches, businesses can enhance brand visibility, establish a stronger market presence, and capitalize on emerging opportunities for growth. Together, these factors contribute to the dynamic expansion of the market, shaping its trajectory and fostering competitiveness within the industry.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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Market Segmentation

Products like Lindor truffles and Guylian exemplify the richness and an upscale appearance, catering to discerning tastes with low sugar. Rising concerns for quality and taste drive product innovation and the creation of limited-edition chocolates, ensuring a premium offering in the chocolate confectionery landscape.

By Distribution Channel

The market share by the offline segment will be significant during the forecast period. Offline sales channels include supermarket, hypermarkets, department stores, convenience stores, distributors, independent retailers, and specialty retailers. Popular supermarkets offering products include SPAR, Walmart, Meijer Inc., The Kroger Co. (Kroger), Carrefour, and Big Bazaar. Supermarkets and hypermarkets offer a wide variety of products from different brands, and consumers can easily select and purchase the desired product from these stores.

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The offline segment was valued at USD 22.70 billion in 2018. Offline distribution channels such as supermarkets and hypermarket chains are focusing on expanding the number of stores around the world. Walmart, for example, has announced plans to open 300 new stores in China by 2024 as part of its global expansion policy. Such expansion of supermarket and hypermarket chains will improve customer access and increase sales of such products, driving the growth of the market during the forecast period.

By Region

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Europe is estimated to contribute 43% to the growth of the market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period. In 2022, Europe had the highest per capita consumption of chocolate in the world. Consumers tend to prefer premium chocolates as they are popular as gifts for special occasions. Additionally, many chocolate manufacturers, such as Ferrero International SA, have their headquarters in the region. These factors are one of the main reasons why Europe holds the dominant share of the market. In Europe, demand is outpacing sales of private-label chocolate. This is mainly because consumers are willing to pay higher prices for higher quality, better packaging, and richer flavor than other chocolates. The UK, Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland are among the leading markets in Europe. Hence, such factors are driving the market in Europe during the forecast period.

Market Dynamics and Customer Landscape

In the market, consumers savor indulgent treats crafted from the finest ingredients like cocoa butter and premium cocoa, ensuring premium product with superior taste and texture for breakfast cereal like cookie dough. From classic favorites like chocolate bars to unique offerings such as Limited-edition chocolate and White chocolates, brands focuses on gourmet chocolates with premium textured and flavors like Berry Crunch. With meticulous attention to detail, these chocolates promise a luxurious experience that delights the senses and satisfies the most discerning palates. Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine the

USD 1761.14 Million in 2024; projected USD 2581.76 Million by 2033; CAGR 4.35%.

For the fifth consecutive year, the UK chocolate market recorded growth in sales value, which increased by 14% to $5.5B in 2024. Overall, the total consumption indicated notable growth from 2012 to 2024: its value increased at an average annual rate of +4.2% over the last twelve years. The trend pattern, however, indicated some noticeable fluctuations being recorded throughout the analyzed period. Based on 2024 figures, consumption increased by +72.1% against 2017 indices.

Forecast: Filled Boxed Chocolate Market Size Volume in the UK 2022 - 2026 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

The size of the United Kingdom Compound Chocolate Market market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 3.00% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: In November 2021, Barry Callebaut launched a range of dairy-free compound chocolate, expanding its plant-based compound chocolates product portfolio. This range of compound chocolates includes Compound Soft Chunk, EZ Melt Compound, Compound Chip/Chunk, Bulk Liquids, and Compound Sift Shaped Chunk., In June 2021, Puratos, a UK-based company, launched two new Belgian chocolate products with 40% less sugar than its previous offerings., In March 2021, Nestlé SA, the world's leading food and beverage company, announced the launch of Incoa, a chocolate bar made of 70% dark chocolate, under the Les Recettes de L'Atelier brand, in the European market. It is made exclusively from cocoa beans.. Key drivers for this market are: Increasing Trend of Consuming Cocktails, Rising Demand for Premium Spirits. Potential restraints include: Affordability of the Product is Restraining the Market's Growth. Notable trends are: Increasing Dark Chocolate Consumption Due to Health Benefits.

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Dark Chocolate Market Size 2025-2029

The dark chocolate market size is forecast to increase by USD 37.37 billion, at a CAGR of 9.1% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is driven by the growing health consciousness among consumers, fueling the demand for dark chocolate due to its numerous health benefits. Dark chocolate, rich in antioxidants and minerals, is increasingly preferred over milk chocolate. Furthermore, the trend towards gourmet, artisanal, vegan, and gluten-free dark chocolate is gaining momentum, expanding the market's reach and appeal. However, the market faces challenges due to the volatility in raw material prices, primarily cocoa beans.
Producers and manufacturers must navigate this price instability to maintain profitability and competitiveness. To capitalize on the market's growth potential, companies should focus on innovation, catering to diverse consumer preferences, and implementing effective supply chain strategies to mitigate the impact of raw material price fluctuations.

What will be the Size of the Dark Chocolate Market during the forecast period?

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The dynamic nature of the market continues to unfold, driven by evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements. Health benefits associated with dark chocolate, derived from its high cocoa percentage and antioxidant properties, fuel demand across various sectors. Ingredient sourcing, from luxury chocolate to mass market varieties, influences production efficiency and sensory experience. Cocoa beans, the foundation of chocolate production, undergo rigorous quality control measures to ensure consistency and purity. Chocolate liquor, a key ingredient in chocolate bars and confections, is subject to process optimization for improved efficiency and cost savings. Consumer preferences for artisan chocolate, single origin, and fair trade options have led to product innovation and direct sales channels.

Cocoa powder, a versatile ingredient, finds applications in baking and beverages, including ice cream and chocolate cakes. Brand loyalty, driven by unique flavor profiles and sustainability practices, shapes pricing strategies for both luxury and mass market chocolate. Milk solids, cocoa mass, and cocoa butter are essential components in chocolate production, requiring ongoing process optimization to meet consumer demands and dietary restrictions. The continuous unfolding of market activities in the dark chocolate industry underscores the importance of ingredient sourcing, production efficiency, and consumer preferences. The sensory experience, from the first bite of a chocolate bar to the final luscious morsel of a chocolate truffle, remains a key differentiator for brands and manufacturers.

How is this Dark Chocolate Industry segmented?

The dark chocolate industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Conventional
  Organic


Distribution Channel

  Supermarkets
  Online Retail
  Specialty Stores


Product Type

  Bars
  Truffles
  Chips and Chunks
  Others


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    Belgium
    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The conventional segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

In the dynamic the market, various formats cater to diverse consumer tastes and preferences. Dark chocolate bars, available in varying cocoa percentages, are popular choices, offering a rich, smooth texture and intense cocoa flavor. These bars, ranging from semi-sweet to bittersweet, are favored by chocolate connoisseurs. Additionally, dark chocolate blocks are widely used in baking and confectionery applications due to their versatility. Dark chocolate pieces or chunks, convenient for snacking and recipe incorporation, are also prevalent. Furthermore, the market presents an array of flavored dark chocolate products, infused with fruits, nuts, spices, and herbs, to add complexity and depth to taste profiles.

Dark chocolate is not only consumed as standalone bars but also used in the production of chocolate liquor, chocolate chips, chocolate cakes, chocolate mousses, chocolate truffles, ice cream, and other confectionery items. Wholesale distribution and retail channels ensure easy accessibility to consumers, while quality control measures maintain consistency in product offerings. Brand loyalty is a significant factor, with artisan chocolate and fair trade options appealing to consumers seeking ethically sourced, high-quality ingredients. Production efficiency, i