Chocolate Confectionery is an important and dynamic market, expected to be worth over €107 billion / $128 billion in global retail sales by the end of 2023, with volume growth of 1.9% CAGR over the next 3 years to 2025.¹

Innovation has a key role to play in that growth projection to meet the latest needs of consumers. Depending on their mood or mindset, consumers have a specific attitude towards life which will determine the type of indulgence they choose. 

While there will always be a need for Intense Indulgence chocolate experiences, we expect consumers to increasingly have a soft health approach to life, increasing the Mindful Indulgence chocolate space. Meanwhile, Healthy Indulgence is definitely a trend to watch within the confectionery segment in the years to come.

1. Intense Indulgence

Chocolate that is a real feast for the eyes and for the taste buds.

Consumers look for intense indulgence when they want to enjoy life to the fullest.

For chocolate confectionery, this means consumers will continue to seek multi-sensoriality, exclusivity, seasonality, storytelling about origin, craftsmanship, and treats that help them celebrate. 

3. Healthy Indulgence

Chocolate fortified and functional, a food for health.

Consumers looking for healthy indulgences actively and intentionally make choices that have a positive impact on their health.

This is an emerging trend for chocolate confectionery, with proven health benefits like vitamins, minerals, fibers, and flavanols being claimed on innovative new products.