Top Chocolate
Confectionery
Trends
Grounded in Research, Powered by Taste
The Top Chocolate Trends in 2026 and Beyond report is our most comprehensive view of the future of chocolate confectionery - powered by data, expertise and taste.
In partnership with WGSN, the world’s leading trend forecaster, we combined:
- Insights from over 24,000 consumers across 24 countries
- Interviews with chefs, chocolatiers, and industry experts
- On-the-ground early signals and trend scanning in flavor, behavior, and innovation.
This forecast delivers the most relevant, up-to-date view of how consumers, chefs, and brands will shape the future of taste in the chocolate confectionery category.
What’s Inside the 2026 Trends Report?
The report explores four trends that will shape the chocolate confectionery industry in 2026 and beyond, from the rise of ‘minorstone’ confectionery to the growing demand for low- and no-confectionery, nutrition-boosted, and sensorial confectionery.
This forward-looking view translates our research into practical guidance, helping chocolate and confectionery brands navigate the shifting tastes, expectations, and opportunities shaping the industry today.
Explore the 2026 chocolate trends report to discover:
- The latest consumer data on confectionery needs, preferences and evolving ideals
- How businesses can optimize their product lines and strategies to meet changing consumer demands
- Key innovation territories in chocolate confectionery, including new moments, adventurous flavors, mindful ingredients, and sensorial experiences.
See the Future of Chocolate in Action
Key Consumer Insights: ‘Minorstone’, Low & No Confectionery, and Sensorial
Insight 1: The 'Minorstone' Moment
With 90% of North American consumers enjoying celebrating smaller or non-traditional milestones with friends and family, 'Minorstone' confectionery moves beyond big holidays to celebrate smaller, more personal, but equally important achievements
Insight 2: Low & No Confectionery
85% of consumers look for shorter ingredient lists when buying chocolate confectionery, as consumers grow more mindful of the impact of sugar and ultra-processed foods on their health.
Insight 3: Sensorial Confectionery
Today, 47% of consumers find chocolates that blend sweet & savory flavors very relevant to them while 43% of consumers are interested in surprising or unexpected textures, making multisensory appeal vital.
Shape the Future of Chocolate Innovation
As a brand innovator, understanding where the chocolate confectionery industry is heading helps you stay ahead.
Our Top Chocolate Confectionery Trends 2026 and Beyond report offers the insights you need to design tomorrow’s creations - rooted in taste, guided by data.
Ready to stay ahead of the trends shaping the future of chocolate confectionery?
Connect with your local Sales Manager for exclusive insights and opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the biggest chocolate confectionery trends for 2026?
The biggest chocolate trends for 2026 and beyond focus on ‘minorstone’ moments, global flavor inspiration, health-forward choices, functional benefits, and multisensorial experiences. Consumers are looking for chocolate that delivers emotion, taste, and purpose.
- Are consumers looking for healthier chocolate in 2026?
Yes. 75% of global consumers actively try to avoid processed foods and 85% of North American consumers look for shorter ingredient lists when buying chocolate confectionery. In general consumers are prioritizing nutrition-rich confectionery, seeking lower sugar-added benefits or functional ingredients without compromising on taste. Health and taste are no longer seen as opposites.
- Why are texture and sensory experiences so important in chocolate confectionery now?
Consumers are moving beyond visual appeal and are seeking richer sensory experiences. Texture contrasts, layering, chewiness, crunch, and unexpected mouthfeels are becoming key drivers of chocolate confectionery indulgence.
- How are chocolate consumption moments changing?
Chocolate is increasingly used to celebrate smaller, everyday ‘minorstone’ moments rather than only major occasions. This shift is driving demand for more personalized formats, gifting-friendly products, and shareable or bite-sized chocolate confectionery.
