The revenue in the 'Chocolate Confectionery' segment of the food market in the United States was modeled to stand at ************* U.S. dollars in 2024. Following a continuous upward trend, the revenue has risen by ************ U.S. dollars since 2018. Between 2024 and 2030, the revenue will rise by ************ U.S. dollars, continuing its consistent upward trajectory.Further information about the methodology, more market segments, and metrics can be found on the dedicated Market Insights page on Chocolate Confectionery.

The North America Chocolate Market report segments the industry into Confectionery Variant (Dark Chocolate, Milk and White Chocolate), Distribution Channel (Convenience Store, Online Retail Store, Supermarket/Hypermarket, Others), and Country (Canada, Mexico, United States, Rest of North America). The report includes market size in Value in USD and Volume, forecasts up to 2030, analysis of growth prospects.

The Hershey Company was the leading chocolate manufacturer in the United States in 2022 in terms of market share. The company held approximately 35.5 percent of the total market, with only Mars as a significant competitor for market leader. In terms of the total confectionery market, Mars has Hershey beat for largest market share, but only barely edged out their competitor by about 0.4 percent. Hershey’s history The Hershey Company was founded in 1894 by Milton Hershey and is headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania. The town itself was largely built by Milton Hershey, and many places in the town bear the Hershey name, including Hershey’s Chocolate World and Hersheypark. Hershey’s Chocolatetown at Hersheypark was one of the largest construction projects in the United States as of January 2019, with a cost of 150 million dollars. Hershey’s popularity Hershey’s generous market share in the United States is due to the confectionery company’s popularity across brands. In a 2018 survey, three of the top four most popular chocolate brands among consumers were sold by Hershey. When it comes to Halloween candy, the company’s Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups were the prized chocolate among trick-or-treaters of all ages.

The USA Chocolate Market size is USD 23.5 billion; driven by consumer demand shifts, premium product innovation, and competitive benchmarking through 2030.

The industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, propelled by changing consumer preferences and innovative product developments. The sector has remained popular despite challenges like fluctuating cocoa prices and ever-growing health consciousness. Companies have adapted by introducing new flavors, healthier options and sustainable practices, appealing to a broader audience. This adaptability has kept consumer interest alive and expanded market reach, ensuring the chocolate production industry remains a crucial contributor to the US economy. Still, industry-wide revenue is projected to shrink at a CAGR of 1.0% over the five years through 2025. In the current year, revenue is expected to dip by an estimated 1.4% to a total of $22.0 billion. Several trends have influenced the industry's performance in recent years. The rising demand for dark and organic chocolate reflects a shift towards healthier eating, with consumers seeking products that offer nutritional benefits without compromising taste. A strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing has become essential, with more brands adopting fair trade practices and eco-friendly packaging. Technological advancements have also enhanced production efficiency and ensured consistent quality. Also, e-commerce has reshaped sales channels, with online shopping and direct-to-consumer models becoming increasingly popular, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Looking forward, the chocolate production industry is set for continued growth and transformation, with revenue forecast to expand at a CAGR of 1.0% over the five years to 2030 to a total of $23.2 billion. The trend towards health-conscious consumption is expected to persist, driving demand for innovative products that blend indulgence with nutritional benefits. Sustainability will remain a key focus, with companies likely to invest in ethical sourcing and environmentally friendly practices. Technological innovations will continue to improve production capabilities and supply chain efficiency. Expanding e-commerce and digital marketing will attract new customers and foster brand loyalty. The US chocolate production industry is poised to thrive, adapting to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.

The North American Premium Chocolate Market is Segmented by Product Type (Dark Premium Chocolate and White and Milk Premium Chocolate), Distribution Channel (Hypermarkets/Supermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Stores, and Other Distribution Channels), and Geography (United States, Mexico, Canada, and Rest of North America). The report provides market sizes and forecasts in terms of value in USD million for all the above segments.

United States Chocolate Market was valued at USD 26.02 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to grow USD 34.95 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.04% during forecast period.

The Chocolate Market report segments the industry into Confectionery Variant (Dark Chocolate, Milk and White Chocolate), Distribution Channel (Convenience Store, Online Retail Store, Supermarket/Hypermarket, Others), and Region (Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Middle East, North America, South America). Five years of historical data and five-year forecasts are provided.

When it comes to the most widely consumed chocolate brands in the U.S., Hershey’s claims the pole position. The Pennsylvania-based brand is consumed by 57 percent of internet respondents who recognized it, followed by Reese's with a consumption rating of 56 percent. For this study, brand awareness was surveyed employing the concept of aided brand recognition, showing respondents both the brand's logo and the written brand name. Only respondents who recognized a brand were asked if they consumed the product.

The market for chocolate products in the U.S. Retail sales of chocolate confectionery in the U.S. amount to a total of almost 25 billion U.S. dollars. The chocolate confectionery category with the highest sales is countlines, which refers to chocolate bars eaten as snacks. Such products generate more than 8.1 billion U.S. dollars annually. Nearly 615 million kilograms of chocolate and chocolate-containing products are imported into the U.S. each year. Canada is the country from which the U.S. imports the majority of its chocolate products, as more than half of the U.S.’ total chocolate product imports come from its North American neighbor. Nonetheless, American companies are also major producers of chocolate-containing products. The leading chocolate producer in terms of sales in the U.S. is the Hershey Company. The Pennsylvania-based multinational confectionery company sells approximately 2.84 billion U.S. dollars’ worth of chocolate products annually.

The Hershey Company

Founded by Milton Hershey in 1894, the Hershey Company has become one of the largest manufacturers of chocolate in North America. Hershey employs 20,505 full-time workers. The revenue of the Hershey Company has been on a steady incline since 2006. The global revenue of Hershey amounts to about 11.17 billion U.S. dollars. The Hershey Company’s brands, Hershey’s and Reese's, are among the leading chocolate and candy bar brands ranked by brand awareness in the U.S. Around 93 percent of consumers are aware of these two brands. The Nestlé-owned brand KitKat, as well as the two brands Snickers and Twix, both owned by Mars Inc., also have a brand recognition rate of 93 percent.

The average revenue per capita in the 'Chocolate Confectionery' segment of the food market in the United States was modeled to stand at ***** U.S. dollars in 2024. Following a continuous upward trend, the average revenue per capita has risen by **** U.S. dollars since 2018. Between 2024 and 2030, the average revenue per capita will rise by ***** U.S. dollars, continuing its consistent upward trajectory.Further information about the methodology, more market segments, and metrics can be found on the dedicated Market Insights page on Chocolate Confectionery.

United States Chocolate Market valued at USD 35 Bn, driven by premium, organic, and sugar-free options, e-commerce growth, and seasonal demand. Forecasted growth in vegan and sustainable segments.

In 2024, the chocolate confectionery market generated a revenue of approximately ***** billion U.S. dollars worldwide. According to estimates of the Statista Digital Market Outlook, the generated revenue in this market is expected to increase in the coming years, reaching a value of ***** billion dollars in 2029. Chocolate shopping in Canada In 2020, almost ** percent of Canadians stated they bought chocolate a few times a month, making it the most common purchasing rate among Canadian consumers. It is rare for people in Canada to buy chocolate every single day. For over half of consumers within the country, monthly chocolate spending would typically amount to anywhere between *** and ** Canadian dollars. Chocolate brands in North America In the same year, Canada’s favorite brand of chocolate was Lindt, a Swiss confectionery brand. Other favorites included Cadbury, Hershey’s, and Ferrero. Consumers in the United States favored Hershey's about twice as often as Lindt. Approximately ** percent of U.S. respondents who knew Hershey's consumed the brand's products.

Snapshot img

Chocolate Market Size 2025-2029

The chocolate market size is forecast to increase by USD 52.7 billion, at a CAGR of 5.1% between 2024 and 2029. Increasing premiumization of chocolates will drive the chocolate market.

Major Market Trends & Insights

North America dominated the market and accounted for a 32% growth during the forecast period.
By Product - Milk chocolate segment was valued at USD 70.70 billion in 2023
By Distribution Channel - Offline segment accounted for the largest market revenue share in 2023

Market Size & Forecast

Market Opportunities: USD 44.26 billion
Market Future Opportunities: USD 52.70 billion 
CAGR : 5.1%
North America: Largest market in 2023

Market Summary

The market is a dynamic and evolving industry, marked by continuous innovation and shifting consumer preferences. Premiumization of chocolates, driven by the increasing demand for high-quality, artisanal, and ethically sourced products, is a significant trend shaping the market. Simultaneously, advancements in chocolate packaging technology, such as biodegradable and reusable materials, are gaining traction, addressing consumer concerns around sustainability. However, the market faces challenges, including unstable cocoa prices and declining per capita consumption in key markets. According to recent studies, The market accounted for over 30% of the total confectionery market share in 2020.
Looking ahead, the market is expected to remain robust, with opportunities in emerging regions and the continued expansion of e-commerce platforms. For related markets, explore the dynamic world of the Nut Butter Market and the evolving trends in the Confectionery Coatings Market.

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

Get Key Insights on Market Forecast (PDF) Request Free Sample

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

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

Product

  Milk chocolate
  Dark chocolate
  White chocolate


Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Type

  Traditional
  Artificial


Cocao Content

  Low (<30%)
  Medium (30-60%)
  High (>60%)


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    France
    Germany
    Italy
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    Egypt
    KSA
    Oman
    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Argentina
    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Product Insights

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

In the dynamic the market, mass production techniques have significantly evolved, enabling the industry to cater to increasing demand. Traceability systems ensure product authenticity and consumer trust, while sensory evaluation methods maintain consistent taste and quality. Shelf life extension is a crucial focus, with quality assurance procedures and rheological properties ensuring optimal texture and preventing fat bloom. Tempering methods, process monitoring systems, and ingredient sourcing are essential components of the chocolate manufacturing process. Waste reduction strategies and sustainable sourcing practices are gaining importance, as is colorimetric analysis for maintaining uniform color. Conching techniques refine the chocolate's flavor, and microbial contamination control is vital for food safety.

Aroma compound profiling and melting point determination contribute to the unique taste experiences consumers expect. Supply chain management and energy efficiency improvements are essential for maintaining profitability and competitiveness. The market's continuous evolution includes product diversification, flavonoid quantification, sugar crystallization, and viscosity measurement. Quality control parameters, packaging optimization, and process optimization strategies ensure product excellence. Cocoa bean fermentation and shear thinning behavior influence the final product's flavor and texture. Flavor compound analysis and polyphenol content are essential for product differentiation and health benefits. According to recent studies, milk chocolate accounts for approximately 60% of the market.

Its popularity is attributed to its smoother and creamier taste. However, the health concerns surrounding milk chocolates have resulted in a decrease in demand, with sales projected to account for 57% of the market by 2027. Meanwhile, dark chocolate, with its higher cocoa solids content, is expected to capture a larger market share, growing from 32% to 39% during the same period. Another trend is the increasing focus on antioxidant capacity and product formulation, with chocolate liquo

Snapshot img

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?

To learn more about this report, View Report Sample

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.

Get a glance at the market contribution of various segments View the PDF Sample

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

For more insights on the market share of various regions Download PDF Sample now!

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 drive

Chocolate stores in the US have experienced a dynamic period marked by shifts in consumer preferences, economic fluctuations and evolving market trends. Over the past few years, the industry has seen challenges and opportunities, with a notable hike in demand for premium and artisanal chocolates. This surge has been fueled by a growing consumer interest in unique, high-quality products and an emphasis on ethical sourcing. The pandemic initially disrupted supply chains and store operations, but many chocolate retailers adapted by enhancing their online presence and offering delivery services. As a result, chocolate stores have recovered and found new ways to engage with their customers, setting the stage for continued growth. Still, revenue will weaken at a CAGR of 0.8% to $1.5 billion over the five years to 2024, including 0.5% growth in 2024 alone. Over the past five years, the chocolate store industry in the US has undergone significant transformation. In recent years, there has been a steady gain in the popularity of dark chocolate and health-conscious products, reflecting broader trends in consumer health awareness. This period also saw a swell in specialty chocolate shops focusing on bean-to-bar production, fair trade practices and unique flavor profiles. Despite economic uncertainties, many chocolate stores thrived by capitalizing on seasonal sales, holiday promotions and collaborations with other local businesses. The next five years promise continued evolution and potential growth for chocolate stores. Analysts anticipate that demand for premium and ethically sourced chocolates will keep rising as consumers become more discerning about the quality and origins of their food. Technological advancements, like blockchain for supply chain transparency and innovative packaging solutions, will enhance consumer trust and engagement. Also, as sustainability becomes a key focus, stores prioritizing eco-friendly practices will attract loyal customers. The future looks bright for the US chocolate store industry, with innovation and consumer preferences driving its trajectory. These factors are expected to cause revenue to grow at an estimated CAGR of 0.1% to $1.5 billion over the five years to 2029.

The article discusses the increasing demand for chocolate and cocoa products in the United States, with market consumption expected to continue rising over the next decade. Forecasts predict a steady growth in market volume and value, reaching 3.8M tons and $21.9B respectively by the end of 2035.

The market for sugar-free chocolate in the United States has seen significant growth in previous years. After reaching close to a projected *** million U.S. dollars in 2023 it is expected that growth will slow down and the market will reach a size of approximately *** million U.S. dollars in 2028.

Snapshot img

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.
Request Free Sample

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

The North America sugar-free chocolate market is projected to grow from $270.7 million in 2021 to $391.8 million in 2028 at a CAGR of 5.42%

South America Chocolate Market size was valued at USD 3.75 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 6.22 Billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2024 to 2031.

South America Chocolate Market Drivers

Strong Chocolate Consumption Culture: South America has a deep-rooted chocolate consumption culture, with chocolate being a popular treat and ingredient in various desserts and beverages. This cultural affinity for chocolate forms a strong foundation for market growth.

Growing Disposable Incomes: As economies in the region grow and disposable incomes increase, consumers are more willing to spend on premium and indulgent food products like chocolate. This is driving demand for higher-quality and more diverse chocolate offerings.

Increasing Urbanization and Changing Lifestyles: Urbanization and changing lifestyles are leading to increased demand for convenient and packaged food products, including chocolate. This is driving the growth of the chocolate confectionery market, with a focus on on-the-go formats and innovative flavors.

Rising Awareness of Premium and Specialty Chocolate: Consumers are becoming more discerning about chocolate, with a growing interest in premium, artisanal, and single-origin chocolates. This trend is driving the growth of the premium chocolate segment, with a focus on quality, flavor, and ethical sourcing.

Growing Tourism and Gifting Culture: The thriving tourism industry in South America contributes to the demand for chocolate as a souvenir and gift item. This is particularly true for countries with a strong cocoa heritage, such as Brazil and Ecuador.