The UK Chocolate Market is segmented by Confectionery Variant (Dark Chocolate, Milk and White Chocolate) and by Distribution Channel (Convenience Store, Online Retail Store, Supermarket/Hypermarket, Others). Market Value in USD and Volume are both presented. Key data points observed include market segmental split by confections, confectionery variant, sugar content, and distribution channel.

The Chocolate and Confectionery Production industry can be divided into three categories: cocoa products, sugar confectionery products and chewing gum. Producers have faced numerous challenges in recent years, including rising health consciousness, fluctuating input costs and increased competition from imported goods. The resultant dip in revenue has prompted action among producers. Increased health awareness has made organic and fair trade practices more popular and led consumers towards healthier chocolate and sweet alternatives. Manufacturers have started producing low-sugar versions of classic chocolate bars. Chocolate manufacturers have also been expanding into vegan chocolate. Industry revenue is expected to grow at a compound annual rate of 3.1% over the five years through 2024-25 to £5 billion, including an estimated rise of 8.1% in 2024-25. Fluctuating input costs, including cocoa, milk and sugar, have forced manufacturers to hike selling prices to pass on cost increases to downstream buyers, propping up profit and revenue. A major shortage of cocoa in the 2024 harvesting season has caused prices to skyrocket in 2024-25. Consumers are also gaining a greater taste for luxury chocolates, boosting sales. 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 (expected in late 2025), chocolate manufacturers are gearing up to introduce healthier products. Companies will also stoke consumer demand through product innovation, especially in the market's premium segment, where customers perceive better value for money. Still, revenue is expected to edge upwards at a compound annual rate of 0.7% over the five years through 2029-30 to £5.1 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. It is dynamic, as consumer demand in the UK for a myriad of innovative chocolate products is very high. The market is accompanied by upscale and better chocolate products and is infused with a dimension of artisanal products, ethical sourcing, multiple flavors, and textures. Chocolate products can be used in a range of confectionery applications, snacks, desserts, and more. Important types include milk, dark, white, and specialty chocolates. Further, technologies used are conching, tempering, and microencapsulation that are inculcated to improve the quality of the product. The market bears a positive effect on economy and follows the trends towards a healthier and ethically sourced consumption style. Strengths are a wide product category and continuous innovation in line with customer preferences for premium and ethically sourced products. 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.

Sales in UK Chocolate Market are predicted to reach £7 billion in 2023 driven by consumer demand for upscale, responsible & decadent goods.

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. The UK Chocolate Industry covers the manufacturing, delivery, and enjoyment of various types of chocolate, such as dark, milk, and white chocolate. Strong consumer demand for chocolate, used in confectionery, bakery, and dairy products, is the driving force behind this market. Recent patterns show an increasing desire for high-quality and handcrafted chocolates, along with a rising popularity of incorporating chocolate into creative flavor pairings. Challenges in the market include varying prices of raw materials and strict regulatory standards. On the other hand, factors driving growth consist of increasing disposable incomes and the growth of the bakery and confectionery industries. Key players are putting money into research and development to come up with new ideas and broaden their range of products. Important advancements in the market involve the introduction of new products and forming strategic partnerships to improve market expansion and customer involvement. The British chocolate sector is set to experience consistent expansion due to rising consumption and ongoing innovation in products. 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.

The UK chocolate market, a significant segment within the broader European confectionery landscape, exhibits robust growth potential. While precise market size figures for the UK specifically are unavailable from the provided data, extrapolating from the global CAGR of 3.32% and considering the UK's established confectionery market, a reasonable estimate for the 2025 UK chocolate market size could range between £2.5 billion and £3 billion. This growth is fueled by several key drivers: the enduring popularity of chocolate as a treat and indulgence, continuous innovation in product formats (e.g., vegan options, gourmet bars, healthier alternatives), and the increasing demand for premium and artisanal chocolates. The market is segmented by product type (dark, milk, white), form (chips, slabs, coatings), and application (bakery, confectionery, beverages). Dark chocolate, driven by health-conscious consumers seeking antioxidants, shows particularly strong growth potential. Premiumization is a major trend, with consumers willing to pay more for high-quality, ethically sourced, and uniquely flavored chocolate. However, factors such as economic fluctuations and increasing ingredient costs represent potential restraints on market expansion. Key players in the UK market include established international brands and smaller, specialized artisanal producers, reflecting the diverse range of consumer preferences. The market's future trajectory will likely be shaped by the ongoing trends towards sustainability, transparency in sourcing, and personalized consumer experiences. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of multinational giants and smaller, specialized players. Major players like Cargill, Barry Callebaut, and Puratos leverage their global scale and established supply chains, while smaller companies often focus on niche markets or specific product attributes (e.g., organic, fair-trade). The dominance of established brands notwithstanding, there is ample opportunity for smaller players to carve out market share by offering innovative products, appealing to specific consumer segments (e.g., health-conscious or ethically minded consumers), or concentrating on regional distribution. The growth of online retail channels provides additional avenues for smaller companies to reach a wider customer base. Successful future strategies will require a keen focus on understanding evolving consumer preferences, adapting to market shifts, and effectively managing supply chain challenges. The UK market's dynamism and growth prospects make it an attractive arena for both established and emerging players. 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.. Notable trends are: Upsurge in Consumption of Bakery and Confectionery Products.

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 UK chocolate market, a significant player in the global confectionery landscape, is experiencing robust growth driven by several key factors. The rising disposable incomes within the UK, coupled with a strong preference for premium and artisanal chocolate, fuels demand across various segments. Consumers are increasingly seeking out ethically sourced and sustainable chocolate options, creating opportunities for brands focusing on transparency and social responsibility. Furthermore, innovative product development, including the introduction of new flavors, textures, and healthier alternatives (e.g., higher cocoa content, reduced sugar), contributes to market expansion. The convenience store channel remains a dominant distribution method, however, online retail is experiencing considerable growth, mirroring broader e-commerce trends. Competition remains intense, with both established multinational corporations and smaller artisanal producers vying for market share. Challenges include fluctuating cocoa prices and the ongoing pressure to maintain profitability in the face of increased input costs and consumer sensitivity to pricing. Within the UK chocolate market segmentation, dark chocolate is witnessing increasing popularity, driven by health-conscious consumers seeking antioxidants and a less sugary option. Milk chocolate maintains its significant market share, representing a staple for a broad range of consumers. White chocolate, while holding a smaller share, continues to enjoy steady growth, particularly in innovative product formulations. The supermarket/hypermarket segment remains the largest distribution channel, benefiting from established brand presence and consumer loyalty. However, the online retail sector shows considerable potential, benefiting from increasing accessibility and targeted marketing campaigns. Looking ahead, sustainable sourcing practices and greater product diversification will be crucial for success in this competitive and dynamic market. The continued popularity of gifting chocolates around holidays also plays a significant role in driving demand. We anticipate consistent growth in the coming years, reflecting the enduring appeal of chocolate as a treat and its integration into various aspects of British life. 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 Compound Chocolate Market is Segmented by Type (Dark, Milk and White Chocolate), Form (Chocolate Chips/Drops/Chunks, Chocolate Slab, Chocolate Coatings, and Other Forms), and Application (Bakery, Confectionery, Frozen Desserts and Ice Cream, Beverages, Cereals, and Other Applications). The report offers market sizes and forecasts in value (USD million) for all the above segments.

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.

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.

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Chocolate Confectionery Market Size 2024-2028

The chocolate confectionery market size is forecast to increase by USD 31 billion at a CAGR of 4.36% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth, driven by the frequent product launches and packaging innovations in the industry. Consumers' increasing preference for premium and artisanal chocolate products, coupled with the expanding retail presence of these offerings, is fueling market expansion. However, the market faces challenges, including the rise in the number of product recalls due to contamination issues. These incidents can negatively impact brand reputation and consumer trust, necessitating stringent quality control measures. To capitalize on market opportunities and navigate challenges effectively, companies must prioritize product safety, invest in research and development for innovative offerings, and adopt sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. By staying abreast of consumer trends and market dynamics, chocolate confectionery players can position themselves for long-term success in this dynamic and competitive market.

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

Request Free SampleThe market experiences growth, fueled by consumers' enduring affection for premium quality chocolate products. Global chocolate consumption continues to rise, driven by the popularity of both mainstream and luxury indulgence offerings. Premium confectionery products, including milk mousse and creamy caramel, capture a significant market share due to their rich sensorial appeal. Health-conscious consumers seek out chocolate with label claims such as organic, sustainably sourced, and dark chocolate varieties, reflecting the trend towards healthy eating lifestyles. Exotic spices, floral notes, unexpected textures, and rare cocoa varieties add to the market's dynamic nature, catering to the diverse tastes of chocolate lovers. Artisanal chocolates, with their distinct flavor combinations, further expand the market landscape, offering a unique and luxurious experience.

How is this Chocolate Confectionery Industry segmented?

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 ChannelOfflineOnlineGeographyEuropeGermanyUKNorth AmericaUSAPACChinaIndiaSouth AmericaMiddle East and Africa

By Product Insights

The chocolate bars segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.The market is expected to grow steadily, with chocolate bars remaining the largest segment in 2023 and beyond. This segment includes countlines and molded bars. Countlines consist of individually wrapped, chocolate-coated bars, while molded bars are small chocolate pieces cut from larger blocks. Major brands such as Snickers, Milky Bar, Milka, Galaxy, 5 Star, Dove, and Cadbury Dairy Milk dominate the chocolate bars market. Innovative chocolate flavors and textures, as well as attractive packaging, are key growth drivers. Consumer preferences for premium quality products, including dark chocolate confectionery with health benefits, are influencing market trends. Peanut butter, milk mousse, creamy caramel, and other gourmet flavors are gaining popularity. Healthy eating lifestyles have led to the demand for sugar reduction, low-calorie, and sugar-free chocolate snacks. Premium chocolate brands, artisanal chocolates, and organic and sustainably sourced chocolate are also on the rise. Consumer packs, added sugar content, and seasonal treats are other market trends. Consumers' preferences for high-quality, gourmet chocolate products, visual appeal, and innovative varieties continue to shape the market.

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The Chocolate bars segment was valued at USD 50.50 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

APAC is estimated to contribute 33% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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The European the market is driven by the demand for premium quality products, particularly in the UK, Germany, France, Switzerland, Italy, Russia, the Netherlands, Poland, Belgium, and Spain. Major players in this market include Mars, Mondelez International, Barry Callebaut, Nestle, Ferrero, and Chocoladefabriken Lindt and Sprungli AG. The market is highly competitive, with a variety of offerings from both regional

Market Size statistics on the Chocolate & Confectionery Production industry in United Kingdom

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.

Explore the growth opportunities in the UK chocolate and cocoa market as demand continues to rise, with a projected increase in market volume to 835K tons and market value to $5.2B by 2035.

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

In 2023, the sales value of chocolates increased to approximately 807.2 million British pounds. This was an increase of 12 percent compared to the previous year.

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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?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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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 effici

In 2023, the sales value of chocolate confectionary amounted to approximately 271 million British pounds.This represented a slight decrease compared to the previous year.