Chocolate Confectionery Market Size, Share Analysis and Forecast Report (2026-2035)

Global Chocolate Confectionery Market Growth

The global chocolate confectionery market is driven by expanding urban populations and innovation in flavours, packaging, and health-conscious formulations. In January 2024, as part of efforts to meet evolving consumer preferences, Nestlé introduced a new flavour to its chocolate tablet range, Aero Choco-Hazelnut. Furthermore, Ferrero North America unveiled new items, including Kinder Chocolate, at the May 2023 Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago, highlighting the increasing focus of companies to align their products with changing customer needs.

Surge in e-commerce and premium gifting trends is boosting the demand of chocolate confectionery items. To match with the changing customer needs, in May 2025, Hershey, a key players in the chocolate confectionery market, responded to evolving consumer needs by showcasing its focus on both indulgent treats and better-for-you options, launching new products that combined classic confectionery with modern flavours and textures. In February 2025, Cartwright & Butler launched its chocolate-coated indulgence range at Liberty London, responding to the growing gifting trend and rising consumer spending on small luxuries. Growing focus of consumers towards low or sugar – free, vegan chocolates is expected to reshape the chocolate confectionery market in the coming years. Moreover, Consumers expect brands to support environmental responsibility, including deforestation-free cocoa sourcing.

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Key Trend and Developments

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If you choose to purchase the full report at a later stage, the amount already paid will be adjusted, and you will only need to pay the remaining balance.

Purchase the Regional Overview for USD 1099

If you choose to purchase the full report at a later stage, the amount already paid will be adjusted, and you will only need to pay the remaining balance.

Purchase the Regional Overview for USD 1099

If you choose to purchase the full report at a later stage, the amount already paid will be adjusted, and you will only need to pay the remaining balance.

Chocolate Confectionery Industry Segmentation 

Global Chocolate Confectionery Market Share

Surging Demand for Milk Chocolates

Increasing product innovation in milk chocolate applications is propelling the chocolate confectionery market growth. To cater to health-conscious Indian consumers, Cadbury introduced three new products in May 2024 under its Dairy Milk Fruitier & Nuttier range, falling within the non-HFSS (high fat, salt, and sugar) category. Similarly, in December 2023, Oobli launched Milk Chocolate bars with sweet proteins, offering 70% less sugar and just 1g of added sugar per serving. Moreover, producers are exploring alternative sweeteners like stevia and adding superfoods to boost health benefits.

Growing consumer awareness of dark chocolate’s health benefits is driving increased demand in the global chocolate confectionery market. A long-term U.S. study published by The BMJ Group, in December 2024, found that eating dark chocolate five times a week is linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. This comes as global diabetes cases are projected to reach 700 million by 2045. Moreover, companies are also launching new products to meet the demand of the premium dark chocolates among consumers. For instance, in March 2025, La Folie launched a new addition to its premium collection of bite-size dark chocolate thins. 

Surging Growth in the Moulded Bars Segment Driven by its Versatility and Broad Consumer Appeal

Moulded bars are traditional chocolate bars shaped in standard or branded formats. This segment remains strong globally due to its versatility and broad appeal across age groups. In April 2024, Hershey India, a snacking and confectionery company, launched HERSHEY’S Choco Delights—a milk chocolate bar. This new offering marks Hershey’s entry into India’s value-moulded chocolate sub-segment. Moreover, in response to the growing consumer demand for moulded chocolates, Bitzel's Chocolate announced in August 2023 the launch of its new, state-of-the-art 7,000-square-foot chocolate facility. The factory will produce and offer a range of products for both retail and wholesale, including moulded chocolates, chocolate-covered fruits and nuts, chocolate treats, and other confections.

Supermarkets and Hypermarkets are a Key Distribution Channel Driven by the Launch of New Products

Consumer demand for ethically sourced and high-quality chocolate is prompting significant shifts in the retail landscape, leading to new strategic partnerships and market expansion from both retailers and premium brands, thereby supporting the chocolate confectionery market expansion. In response to the growing consumer expectation for sustainability, major retailers are forming alliances with ethical sourcing initiatives. For instance, in 2024, UK supermarket Waitrose, for instance, has joined Tony’s Open Chain, committing its own-brand chocolate to principles that ensure a living income for cocoa farmers and a fully traceable supply chain. 

Additionally, Godiva expanded its global presence by launching its "Godiva Masterpieces" range in large supermarkets, including 500 Sainsbury's stores in the UK. This strategy was designed to make the brand more accessible to everyday consumers and was part of an ambition to become a USD 2 billion brand, following the success of rivals like Lindt in similar channels.

Europe’s Chocolate Confectionery Market is Characterised by the Production of Innovative Chocolates 

Europe is one of the largest consumers of chocolate in the world and is home to countries with the highest per capita chocolate consumption. In 2023, per capita chocolate consumption in Europe is 5 kilograms, creating consistent demand. The growing demand for sustainable and vegan products is reshaping the market. In July 2024, responding to rising demand for sustainable packaging, German startup Nucao launched the country’s first paper-wrapped chocolate bar, offering good barrier properties and 100% recyclability. With growing consumer demand associated with plant-based or vegan chocolate products, In October 2023, Lindt launched two new oat milk-based vegan chocolate products in the German market. The bars are part of Lindt's strategy to expand its vegan options, including oat milk-based chocolates under its Hello collection in Germany.

Asia Pacific is experiencing rapid growth in the chocolate confectionery market. Expansion of luxury chocolate boutiques in Asia Pacific fuels this growth. In May 2025, Lindt & Sprüngli opened its first Asia Pacific travel retail boutique at Changi Airport, Singapore. Located in Terminal 1, the store targets the growing number of Chinese travelers with its premium chocolate offerings. A growing popularity of locally produced confectioneries is further propelling market growth. For instance, in Japan, consumers are seeking “Made in Japan” chocolates. In July 2024, Nestlé announced the opening of a new Kit Kat factory in Himeji, Japan, to meet growing demand for regional flavours like wasabi and Okinawan sweet potato. The move also underscores the growing popularity of “Made in Japan” Kit Kat bars. Further, the retail and distribution landscape in the country is well-established, with convenience stores driving chocolate sales, capturing up to 70% of value share in some regions in 2024. Major chains like 7-Eleven and Family Mart capitalise on their extensive networks and 24/7 availability to boost sales.

Competitive Landscape 

Other key players in the chocolate confectionery market report are Nestlé S.A, and Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd., among others.

Key Features of the Report

•    Comprehensive quantitative analysis of global chocolate confectionery market trends.
•    Region-wise and segment-wise breakdown for accurate market forecasting.
•    Insights into key drivers, challenges, and emerging industry opportunities.
•    Competitive landscape profiling top chocolate confectionery companies.
•    Supply chain analysis with technological and infrastructure developments.

Why Choose Expert Market Research?

•    Trusted industry insights backed by real-world data and expertise.
•    Customized reports tailored to your specific business needs.
•    Up-to-date trends and forecasts across global chocolate confectionery sector.
•    Extensive coverage of emerging and established chocolate confectionery markets.

Unlock valuable insights by downloading a free sample of the Global Chocolate Confectionery Market Report. Stay ahead with expert analysis of market trends, growth drivers, and strategic forecasts. Learn how key players are shaping the future of global chocolate confectionery industry and gain a competitive edge in this evolving sector.