Demand for chocolate in snack and bakery items continues to grow
Demand for chocolate in snack and bakery items is driven by two core consumers: Luxury seekers; and healthy snack eaters who both share a common desire for great-tasting chocolate produced in a sustainable fashion.
According to market research from Mintel, chocolate has fared seemingly well in a lagging economy, growing 19% in sales from 2007 to 2012, and forecasts for the future are just as encouraging. Mintel’s research shows that the category is positioned to grow 15% through 2017. The firm attributes this growth to consumer demand for affordable luxuries and indulgences, as well as the emergence of a foodie culture that places a high value on premium, high-quality and artisanal chocolate.