What you need to know
Despite challenging conditions that include the backdrop of negative coverage about sugar, there was no change in consumers’ usage frequency of chocolate confectionery in 2015/16, translating into flat volume sales. Furthermore – and even amid intense price competition between retailers – value sales grew by 2% year on year to £4.2 billion, reflecting a combination of price rises and trading up.
The resilience of the market demonstrates the strong position chocolate occupies as a permissible treat. Indeed, the majority of users think it is fine to enjoy chocolate every day as part of a balanced diet. The strong emotional ties consumers have with chocolate have also protected it against heightened concerns over sugar.
The majority of people are willing to trade up for chocolate with particular attributes, particularly when buying as a gift, and more purchases of premium products are needed given stagnating volume sales. The launch of innovative new products along with strong advertising and in-store marketing support will be instrumental to the success of brands given the impulse nature of purchasing.
Products covered in this report
This report examines the UK retail market for chocolate confectionery. The market size includes sales through all retail channels including direct to consumer. The market size comprises packaged chocolate confectionery products, including the following segments:
Chocolate confectionery: This comprises all solid chocolate or chocolate-covered confectionery, including block chocolate up to 400g in weight, chocolate straight lines, chocolate-filled bars and chocolate confectionery variety packs not targeted for special occasions or gifting.
Chocolate assortments: This includes assortments, large bags, large boxes, tins, jars. Products include chocolates, chocolate mints, liqueurs, toffee, fudge, marzipan, truffles, jellies and nut assortments but exclude seasonal products.
The market size excludes unpackaged chocolate, seasonal confectionery, chocolate biscuits (such as Cadbury Fingers), cakes and cake bars including wafers, cocoa powder and chocolate drinks. It also excludes sales via catering or foodservice establishments, however, references and comparisons to these sectors may be made where relevant.
