Europe Almond Milk Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends And Forecast (2025 - 2030)

Segment Analysis

By Product Type: Sweetened Variants Drive Premium Growth

The segment with the largest market share in the Europe almond milk market is the unsweetened almond milk category, which held approximately 62.18% of the market in 2024. This segment dominates due to the growing preference among health-conscious consumers who prioritize natural, low-calorie, and low-sugar options. Unsweetened almond milk is favored for its clean label appeal and compatibility with vegan and lactose-intolerant diets. It is commonly used as a dairy substitute in beverages, cereals, and cooking. The widespread availability of unsweetened almond milk in supermarkets and health food stores across Europe supports its substantial market share. Consumer education around the benefits of unsweetened products, such as lower sugar intake and fewer additives, further reinforces its lead. Despite its large share, this segment faces increasing competition from flavored and specialty almond milk variants that cater to evolving consumer tastes.

The fastest-growing segment is the sweetened almond milk category, accelerating at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.33% through 2030. This rapid growth indicates a consumer willingness to pay a premium for almond milk products with enhanced taste profiles that address traditional barriers to adoption, such as blandness or lack of flavor. Sweetened almond milk appeals especially to younger consumers and those new to plant-based alternatives who prefer a more indulgent flavor. Its growth is driven by innovation in sweeteners, such as natural sugars, and the introduction of a variety of flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and berry blends. Manufacturers are capitalizing on this trend by expanding their product ranges and incorporating functional ingredients like vitamins and minerals. The increasing availability of sweetened almond milk in both retail and foodservice sectors fuels its expansion, as consumers seek convenient and enjoyable plant-based options. 

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

By Packaging Type: Glass Bottles Signal Premium Positioning

The largest segment in the Europe almond milk market by packaging type is the carton format, which commanded a dominant share of approximately 58.24% in 2024. This package type is favored for its sustainability, bulk storage capacity, and convenience, making it the preferred choice for consumers and retailers alike. Cartons are widely accessible across supermarkets and specialty stores, bolstering their market dominance. They also align with the increasing consumer preference for eco-friendly packaging solutions, emphasizing recyclable and biodegradable materials. The extensive presence of carton packaging in retail outlets further consolidates its leading position. With the growing consumer focus on sustainability and convenience, carton formats are expected to retain their large market share in upcoming years.

The fastest-growing packaging segment is glass bottles, with a CAGR of 15.61%. This growth is driven by consumers’ increasing willingness to pay premiums for high-quality, aesthetically appealing packaging that reinforces perceived product value and differentiation. Glass bottles are associated with premium positioning, perceived as more sustainable, and are often used for flavored and specialty almond milk variants. The appeal of glass bottles in premium retail outlets and specialty cafes is accelerating demand, especially among environmentally conscious consumers who favor reusable and recyclable packaging. The trend toward functional and artisanal branding also boosts glass bottle sales, as brands seek to capitalize on their premium and sustainable image. This segment's structure suggests a strategic shift toward packaging that enhances brand perception and aligns with growing eco-conscious consumption behaviors.

By Flavor: Innovation Drives Flavored Segment Expansion

The segment with the largest market share in the Europe almond milk market is the unflavored almond milk category, which held approximately 68.52% of the market in 2024. This dominant share reflects strong consumer preference for the natural and versatile taste profile of unflavored almond milk, making it suitable for a wide range of uses from drinking plain to adding into recipes and beverages. The unflavored variant appeals particularly to health-conscious consumers who prioritize minimal ingredients and lower sugar content, aligning well with clean-label trends. Its broad availability in major supermarkets, specialty health stores, and online platforms further solidifies its position. Despite its high market share, this category remains resilient through consistent innovation, such as fortification with vitamins and minerals.

In contrast, the fastest-growing segment is flavored almond milk, which is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16.25% through 2030. This rapid growth highlights consumers’ increasing willingness to try almond milk variants with enhanced taste profiles that include natural fruit, vanilla, chocolate, and other flavor infusions. Flavored almond milk appeals to younger demographics and those new to plant-based alternatives who may prefer sweeter, more indulgent options. Manufacturers capitalize on this trend with extensive product line expansions and creative flavor launches aimed at diversifying consumer choice and capturing new market segments. The availability of flavored almond milk in foodservice outlets and cafes also helps drive growth as consumers enjoy these products in a variety of out-of-home settings.

By Distribution Channel: On-Trade Expansion Transforms Market Access

The off-trade distribution channel holds the largest market share in the Europe almond milk market, commanding approximately 79.38% of the market in 2024. This dominance is largely due to the extensive availability of almond milk products in supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and online retail platforms. These outlets offer consumers easy and frequent access to almond milk as part of their regular grocery shopping, driving sustained high sales volumes. The convenience and variety provided by off-trade channels support consumer loyalty and repeated purchases. Major retailers in key markets such as Germany, the UK, and France have developed dedicated plant-based sections, further boosting off-trade penetration. The wide reach, competitive pricing, and promotional activities in these channels help maintain their stronghold.

Conversely, the on-trade channel is the fastest-growing segment, accelerating at a CAGR of 15.78% through 2030. This segment includes cafes, restaurants, bars, and other foodservice outlets that are increasingly incorporating almond milk into their beverage and food offerings. On-trade growth is powered by strategic penetration into the foodservice sector where consumers are introduced to almond milk in coffee, smoothies, and specialty drinks, expanding overall market exposure. Leading coffee chains such as Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and Caffè Nero widely offer almond milk as a non-dairy option to meet consumer demand for plant-based alternatives outside the home. This channel’s growth reflects a shift in consumer consumption patterns toward out-of-home occasions and experiential purchases. Foodservice venues also act as trial points, converting new consumers who may later purchase almond milk through retail channels.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

Geography Analysis

Germany’s market leadership with a 23.64% share in 2024 underscores its high level of consumer acceptance and the presence of a favorable regulatory environment. The country’s sophisticated consumer base values product quality, health benefits, and sustainability, which give established players a competitive advantage. Germany’s strong market position is further reinforced by supportive policies and regulations that promote organic and eco-friendly products. The country's well-developed retail infrastructure and widespread awareness about plant-based diets create a conducive environment for ongoing growth. Local brands and international players alike are leveraging the country’s reputation for quality to sustain their market dominance.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands is experiencing rapid growth at a CAGR of 15.51% through 2030. This dynamic expansion is fueled by the country’s robust innovation ecosystem, which continuously introduces new product formulations and variants. Regulatory frameworks in the Netherlands are progressive and supportive of plant-based development, allowing companies to experiment and optimize their offerings. The country’s progressive mindset towards sustainability and innovation makes it an attractive market for emerging brands and established players seeking to capitalize on consumer preferences for functional, health-oriented, and sustainable products. The regulatory environment encourages Research and development investments and product diversification, driving the accelerated market expansion. 

Other European countries are also contributing to the market's overall growth. For example, the UK, France, and Spain are witnessing increasing consumer shifts towards plant-based and organic dairy options, supported by rising health awareness and sustainability concerns. Countries like Sweden and Belgium are gaining traction due to their high environmental consciousness and supportive regulations for plant-based foods. Overall, Europe’s almond milk market is characterized by diverse regional dynamics, with mature markets like Germany setting the pace while emerging markets like the Netherlands surge through innovation and supportive policies. The collective growth across these regions reflects Europe’s expanding appetite for sustainable, healthy, and innovative plant-based dairy alternatives.