Industry Analysis & Industry Trends
The Chocolate and Confectionery Production industry has found itself in a sticky situation during the past five years. The onset of the financial crisis and the United Kingdom's descent into recession have gradually eroded consumer confidence, sharply constraining spending on chocolate and confectionery products. At the same time, rising cocoa, sugar and milk prices have increased production costs, but weak demand has limited producers' ability to pass these costs on to consumers, resulting in falling profitability. The organic and fair trade movements have gathered momentum over the past decade and created niche segments across the food and beverage sector... purchase to read more
Industry Report - Industry Products Chapter
Chocolate-based products dominate the industry, but smaller niche products are becoming the key revenue drivers. Dark chocolate and chocolate with high cocoa content are increasingly sought after. Chewing gum has also grown strongly over the past five years through product innovation.
Chocolate bars and blocks
Chocolate bars account for the largest chunk of industry revenue, with an estimated share of just over 30% in 2013-14. The relative amounts of cocoa, butter, milk and sugar differentiate milk, dark and white chocolate. They may also contain differing centres or fillings such as nougat, fudge, wafers, fruit and nuts. This segment's share of revenue is expected to increase over the next five years, thanks to product innovation... purchase to read more