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.

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.

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.

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 UK chocolate market analysis, revealing a steady growth trajectory with a CAGR of 3.32% and market value estimates. Learn about key drivers, trends, and restraints shaping this lucrative industry, including insights into major players like Cargill and Barry Callebaut. 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.

Forecast: Chocolate Confectionery Market Size Volume 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.

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.

During a survey in the summer of 2025, about 73 percent of respondents who consumed chocolate and candy bars stated that they had eaten Cadbury chocolate in the past year. Galaxy was the next frequently consumed bar. Of the responding consumers in the UK, 54 percent consumed Galaxy. Sales of chocolate in the UK There are hundreds of enterprises involved in the manufacturing of cocoa, chocolate, and sugar confectionery in the UK. About ten of these enterprises have a turnover of more than 50 million British pounds, while approximately 20 have a turnover between 10 million and 49.9 million British pounds. The sales volume of chocolate in the UK amounts to approximately 115,643 tons. This marks a decrease compared to 2018, when a peak volume of 146,517 tons of chocolate was sold. Nonetheless, the sales value of chocolate bars manufactured in the UK is at its highest since 2008. Approximately 498 million British pounds' worth of chocolate manufactured by UK companies is sold annually. Chocolate consumers Many people in the UK enjoy eating chocolate, as reflected in the attitudes of British consumers toward chocolate and candy bars. About 39 percent of consumers in the UK state that they cannot imagine their life without chocolate and candy bar products. A similar proportion of consumers say they rely on brands they know and trust when it comes to chocolate and candy bar products. The leading chocolate brand in the UK in terms of sales is Cadbury Dairy Milk. The Mondelez-owned brand sells approximately 680 million British pounds' worth of chocolate annually, which is more than three times the sales of its two biggest competitors, Galaxy and Maltesers. Cadbury is also one of the leading chocolate and candy bar brands in terms of brand awareness in the UK. About 95 percent of British consumers recognize the brand. KitKat, Snickers, and Twix are also recognized by the same proportion of consumers.

In 2023, the total turnover of companies producing chocolate and confectionary was approximately **** billion British pounds. Between 2011 and 2022 the turnover somewhat fluctuated, reaching a low point of **** billion in 2017. Every week, consumers in the UK spend **** British pounds on different types of confectionery. Filled chocolate bars are the most popular, followed by regular chocolate bars. PRODCOM survey The data shown here comes from the UK Manufacturers' Sales by Product survey (called PRODCOM from “PRODuction COMmunautaire”). The survey is mandated by EU regulations. The aim is to provide a complete overview of the developments of industrial production in the EU area and make country comparisons possible. The data comes directly from the companies which are surveyed by the national statistical institutes of each country. UK producers’ sales of chocolate and confectionary The same drop that is visible in companies’ overall turnover is also visible in the sales value of chocolate, and confectionary, manufactured in the UK. In 2011, the sales value declined by ** percent compared to 2010, amounting to *** million British pounds. The sales value recovered slightly and amounted to approximately *** million British pounds in 2023. Sugar confectionary saw a sales drop between 2012 and 2016, but has since mostly recovered.

Explore the projected growth of the chocolate and cocoa market in the UK, with an anticipated increase in consumption trends over the next decade. By 2035, market volume is expected to reach 835K tons and market value is projected to reach $5.2B.

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.

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

The UK chocolate and cocoa market is expected to continue growing over the next decade, with market volume projected to reach 835K tons and market value to reach $5.2B by 2035.

Discover the latest trends in the UK chocolate and cocoa market as demand continues to rise. Anticipated growth in consumption is expected to boost market volume to 1.1M tons and market value to $8.2B by 2035.

Discover the booming UK compound chocolate market! This comprehensive analysis reveals key trends, growth drivers (like increasing confectionery consumption), challenges, and leading players from 2019-2033. Explore market segmentation by type, form, and application, including insights on dark, milk, and white chocolate. 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.. Notable trends are: Increasing Dark Chocolate Consumption Due to Health Benefits.

The global chocolate confectionery market is slated to reach USD 167.1 billion in 2025. The industry is poised to witness 7.1% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, registering USD 334.2 billion by 2035.

Metrics	Values
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 167.1 billion
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 334.2 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	7.1%

Segmentation

Segment	Value Share (2025)
Chocolate Bars	31.7%

Segment	Value Share (2025)
Milk	46.4%

Country-wise Analysis

Countries	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
USA	6.9%
UK	7.2%
France	7.5%
Germany	6.8%
Italy	7.3%
South Korea	8.0%
Japan	7.6%
China	8.5%
Australia	7.4%
New Zealand	7.5%

Competitive Outlook

Company	Industry Share
The Hershey Company	15-20%
Ferrero	10-15%
Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprüngli AG	7-10%
Mars, Incorporated	12-16%
Mondelēz International	8-12%
Nestlé	7-10%
CEMOI Group	2-4%
Barry Callebaut	3-5%
Lake Champlain Chocolates	1-2%
LOTTE	2-4%

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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