Europe Confectionery Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

The Europe Confectionery Market is segmented by Confections (Chocolate, Gums, Snack Bar, Sugar Confectionery), by Distribution Channel (Convenience Store, Online Retail Store, Supermarket/Hypermarket, Others) and by Country (Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom). Market Value in USD and Volume are both presented. Key data points observed include market segmental split by confections, confectionery variant, sugar content, and distribution channel.

Europe Confectionery Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

Europe Confectionery Market Size

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Europe Confectionery Market Summary
Study Period 2017 - 2030
Base Year For Estimation 2024
Forecast Data Period 2025 - 2030
Market Size (2025) USD 72.38 Billion
Market Size (2030) USD 91.03 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2030) 4.69 %
Market Concentration Medium

Major Players

Europe Confectionery Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

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Europe Confectionery Market Analysis

The Europe Confectionery Market size is estimated at 72.38 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 91.03 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 4.69% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The European confectionery landscape is experiencing a significant transformation in distribution channels, with digital commerce emerging as a crucial sales avenue. This shift is evidenced by the fact that 68% of European consumers aged 16 to 74 engaged in online purchasing in 2022, demonstrating the growing acceptance of e-commerce for confectionery products. Traditional retail remains strong but is evolving, with major chains like Lidl expanding their presence to over 3,000 stores in Germany and 1,500 in France as of 2023. The integration of online and offline channels has become essential, with retailers developing omnichannel strategies to provide seamless shopping experiences. Carrefour, operating 2,869 supermarkets across the region, exemplifies this trend by strengthening both its physical presence and digital capabilities.


Health consciousness is increasingly influencing consumer preferences in the European confectionery market, driving innovation in product formulations and ingredients. Manufacturers are responding by developing sugar-free alternatives, incorporating natural sweeteners, and introducing products with functional benefits. This trend is particularly pronounced in markets like Spain, where 55.4% of consumers have demonstrated a willingness to spend more on healthier food options. The industry is witnessing a surge in products featuring clean labels, organic ingredients, and enhanced nutritional profiles, reflecting consumers' growing interest in wellness-oriented confectionery options.


Premium and artisanal confectionery products are gaining significant traction across Europe, with consumers showing increased appreciation for high-quality, uniquely crafted offerings. This trend is particularly evident in the chocolate segment, where artisanal chocolatiers are experiencing growing demand for their handcrafted products. Manufacturers are responding by introducing limited editions, single-origin products, and innovative flavor combinations that cater to sophisticated palates. The premium segment is also seeing innovation in packaging and presentation, with sustainable and gift-worthy packaging becoming increasingly important to consumers.


The retail landscape for confectionery is undergoing substantial modernization, with strategic product positioning and experiential shopping becoming key focus areas. Traditional retailers are reimagining their confectionery sections to create more engaging shopping experiences, while specialty stores are emerging to cater to specific consumer preferences. The trend is particularly evident in Germany, where 72% of snackers consume candy and chocolate bars weekly, prompting retailers to optimize their merchandising strategies. This evolution includes the introduction of digital displays, interactive product information systems, and specialized sections for premium and health-focused products, enhancing the overall shopping experience while driving consumer engagement and sales.

Segment Analysis: Confections

Chocolate Segment in Europe Confectionery Market

The chocolate confectionery market continues to dominate the European confectionery market, holding approximately 68% market share in 2024. This commanding position is driven by the region's strong chocolate manufacturing capabilities, particularly in countries like the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Belgium. Consumer preferences for premium and artisanal chocolates, along with the popularity of seasonal chocolate products during occasions like Easter and Christmas, contribute significantly to this segment's dominance. The segment's growth is further supported by increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits associated with dark chocolate consumption and the rising demand for organic and sustainably sourced chocolate products across the region.

Market Analysis of Europe Confectionery Market: Chart for Confections

Snack Bar Segment in Europe Confectionery Market

The snack bar segment is emerging as the fastest-growing category in the European confectionery market, projected to experience robust growth between 2024 and 2029. This remarkable growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer preference for healthy, on-the-go snacking options and meal replacements. The segment's expansion is supported by rising health consciousness among consumers, with many seeking products that offer specific functional benefits for physical and mental wellbeing. Manufacturers are responding to this trend by introducing innovative products with high protein content, natural ingredients, and various nutritional benefits. The segment is particularly appealing to fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers who are looking for convenient, nutritious alternatives to traditional confectionery products.

Remaining Segments in Europe Confectionery Market

The gums and sugar confectionery segments complete the European confectionery market landscape, each serving distinct consumer preferences and occasions. The gums segment, comprising both bubble gum and chewing gum variants, maintains steady demand due to its convenience and breath-freshening properties, with a growing trend toward sugar-free options. Meanwhile, the sugar confectionery segment, which includes various products like hard candies, pastilles, gummies, jellies, toffees, and nougats, continues to appeal to consumers through innovative flavors and formats. Both segments are experiencing transformation through the introduction of natural ingredients, sugar-free variants, and sustainable packaging solutions to meet evolving consumer preferences and regulatory requirements.

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

Supermarket/Hypermarket Segment in Europe Confectionery Market

Supermarkets and hypermarkets maintain a dominant position in the European confectionery market, commanding approximately 42% of the market share in 2024. These retail formats provide an ideal platform for confectionery brands to strategically position their products, significantly influencing impulse purchases among consumers. Major chains like Metro Group, ASDA, AmazonFresh, Walmart, Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Aldi have established extensive networks across the region, consistently upgrading their infrastructure and distribution capabilities to meet consumer preferences for in-store purchases. These stores also offer confectionery products under their private label brands, with retailers like Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury's, Aldi, and Lidl specializing in various confectionery categories including chocolates, chewing gums, bubble gums, and other sweet treats.

Online Retail Store Segment in Europe Confectionery Market

The online retail channel is experiencing remarkable growth in the European confectionery market, projected to expand at a rate of approximately 6% between 2024 and 2029. This growth trajectory is primarily driven by the increasing digitalization of retail operations and changing consumer preferences toward convenient shopping options. E-commerce platforms are attracting consumers through various services including store-to-door delivery, on-demand ordering, and click-and-collect in-store pickup options. The segment's growth is further supported by the ongoing collaboration between chocolate brands and online retailers, as major manufacturers like Nestle, Lindt & Sprüngli, and Hershey's continue to expand their e-shops. The high internet penetration rates across European countries and the convenience of online shopping platforms are expected to sustain this growth momentum throughout the forecast period.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The convenience store segment maintains a significant presence in the European confectionery market, serving as a crucial point of purchase for impulse buyers and regular consumers alike. These stores benefit from their widespread presence in urban and residential areas, offering easy access to a variety of confectionery products. The 'Others' category, which includes specialty stores, vending machines, drug stores, and direct selling channels, plays a complementary role in the market by catering to specific consumer needs and preferences. Specialty stores, in particular, focus on premium and artisanal confectionery products, while vending machines provide 24/7 accessibility to confectionery items in high-traffic locations such as offices, educational institutions, and transportation hubs.

Europe Confectionery Market Geography Segment Analysis

Confectionery Market in United Kingdom

The United Kingdom stands as the dominant force in Europe's confectionery market, commanding approximately 24% of the total market value in 2024. The country's confectionery sector benefits from a deeply embedded snacking culture and strong consumer preference for premium chocolate products. British consumers demonstrate sophisticated taste preferences, particularly favoring milk chocolate variants while showing increasing interest in artisanal and craft confectionery products. The market is characterized by a robust retail infrastructure, with supermarkets and convenience stores playing pivotal roles in product distribution. Health-conscious consumption trends are reshaping market dynamics, with manufacturers responding through sugar-free variants and portion-controlled packaging options. The country's confectionery industry also benefits from strong seasonal sales patterns, particularly during Christmas, Easter, and Valentine's Day celebrations. Innovation in product development, especially in premium and organic segments, continues to drive market evolution, while the rising popularity of online retail channels is transforming traditional distribution patterns.

Confectionery Market in Spain

Spain emerges as the most dynamic market in the European confectionery sector, projected to achieve a remarkable growth rate of approximately 6% from 2024 to 2029. The Spanish market's robust growth is underpinned by a strong tradition of artisanal chocolate production and increasing consumer preference for premium confectionery products. Local manufacturers are increasingly focusing on incorporating traditional Spanish ingredients, such as locally produced fruits and nuts, into their confectionery offerings. The market demonstrates a notable shift towards healthier alternatives, with dark chocolate and sugar-free variants gaining significant traction among health-conscious consumers. Spanish consumers show particular interest in innovative flavor combinations and unique product formats, driving manufacturers to continuously expand their product portfolios. The country's vibrant tourism sector also contributes significantly to confectionery sales, particularly in popular tourist destinations. Additionally, the growing influence of social media and digital marketing has transformed how confectionery products are marketed to Spanish consumers, especially among younger demographics.

Confectionery Market in Germany

Germany's confectionery market exemplifies a perfect blend of tradition and innovation, characterized by strong consumer loyalty to established brands while embracing new product developments. The country's robust manufacturing capabilities and advanced distribution networks contribute to its market strength, particularly in chocolate production. German consumers demonstrate sophisticated preferences, with a strong inclination towards premium and organic confectionery products. The market shows significant seasonality, with peak sales during traditional celebrations and festivals. Sustainability has become a key focus area, with manufacturers increasingly adopting eco-friendly packaging and sustainable sourcing practices. The country's well-developed retail infrastructure, particularly in discount stores and specialty confectionery shops, provides extensive market coverage. German consumers also show growing interest in functional confectionery products, especially those offering additional health benefits or made with natural ingredients. The Germany confectionery market is a testament to the country's ability to balance tradition with modern consumer demands.

Confectionery Market in Russia

Russia's confectionery market demonstrates unique characteristics shaped by distinct consumer preferences and cultural traditions. The market is characterized by a strong domestic production base and growing consumer sophistication in product choices. Russian consumers show particular affinity for traditional confectionery products while increasingly embracing international brands and innovative offerings. The market exhibits strong regional variations in consumer preferences, with urban areas showing higher demand for premium products. Local manufacturers play a significant role in market development, often combining traditional recipes with modern production techniques. The country's vast geographical expanse presents both challenges and opportunities in distribution networks. Russian consumers demonstrate strong brand loyalty, particularly to established domestic brands with cultural significance. The market also shows increasing premiumization trends, especially in chocolate and functional confectionery segments.

Confectionery Market in Other Countries

The confectionery markets in other European countries, including France, Italy, Belgium, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Turkey, each exhibit unique characteristics shaped by local preferences and traditions. These markets demonstrate varying levels of maturity and growth potential, with distinct consumer preferences and purchasing patterns. Countries like Belgium and Switzerland are renowned for their premium chocolate production, while markets like Turkey's confectionery market show strong growth potential in traditional confectionery segments. The Nordic countries demonstrate increasing preference for healthy and sustainable confectionery options, while Eastern European markets show growing sophistication in consumer choices. These markets are characterized by strong seasonal consumption patterns and an increasing focus on premium and artisanal products. The rise of digital retail channels and changing consumer preferences continue to shape market dynamics across these countries, while local traditions and cultural factors remain significant influences on consumption patterns.

Europe Confectionery Industry Overview

Top Companies in Europe Confectionery Market

The European confectionery company landscape is characterized by intense competition among major players like Mondel-z International, Mars Incorporated, Ferrero International, Nestlé, and Lindt & Sprüngli. Product innovation remains the dominant strategy, with companies focusing on developing healthier alternatives, premium offerings, and sustainable products to meet evolving consumer preferences. Companies are increasingly investing in research and development to create unique flavor profiles, innovative packaging solutions, and functional confectionery products. Operational agility is demonstrated through the modernization of manufacturing facilities, adoption of automation, and optimization of supply chain networks. Strategic moves primarily revolve around partnerships with local distributors, acquisitions of regional brands, and collaborations with technology providers to enhance digital capabilities. Geographic expansion continues through both organic growth and strategic acquisitions, with companies particularly focusing on emerging markets within Eastern Europe.

Market Dominated by Global Confectionery Specialists

The European confectionery market exhibits a high level of consolidation, with multinational corporations controlling significant market share through their established brands and extensive distribution networks. These major players leverage their global research capabilities, economies of scale, and strong financial positions to maintain market dominance. The market structure is characterized by a mix of global confectionery specialists and diversified food conglomerates, with companies like Ferrero and Lindt focusing exclusively on confectionery while others like Nestlé and Mondel-z maintain broader food product portfolios. Regional players maintain their presence through specialized product offerings and strong local market understanding, particularly in premium and artisanal segments.


Merger and acquisition activity in the market is primarily driven by large companies acquiring smaller, innovative brands to expand their product portfolios and gain access to new consumer segments. Companies are particularly interested in acquiring brands with strong positions in healthy snacking, premium confectionery, and sustainable production practices. The market also witnesses strategic partnerships between established players and technology companies to enhance digital capabilities and improve consumer engagement. Vertical integration strategies are becoming increasingly common as companies seek to secure supply chains and maintain quality control, particularly in cocoa sourcing and processing.

Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success

Success in the European confectionery industry increasingly depends on companies' ability to align with key consumer trends while maintaining operational efficiency. Incumbent players must focus on continuous product innovation, particularly in developing healthier alternatives and premium offerings, while maintaining strong brand equity through sustainable practices and transparent supply chains. Digital transformation initiatives, including e-commerce capabilities and direct-to-consumer channels, are becoming crucial for maintaining market share. Companies must also invest in local manufacturing capabilities and distribution networks to ensure market proximity and reduce operational costs.


For contenders looking to gain market share, success lies in identifying and exploiting niche segments underserved by major players. This includes focusing on specific dietary requirements, unique flavor profiles, or particular consumer demographics. Building strong relationships with retailers and investing in marketing initiatives to build brand awareness are essential strategies for market penetration. The regulatory environment, particularly regarding sugar content and sustainable sourcing, presents both challenges and opportunities for market players. Companies must also address the growing threat of substitution from healthy snacking alternatives by diversifying their product portfolios and emphasizing the premium, indulgent nature of their offerings.

Europe Confectionery Market Leaders

  1. Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprüngli AG

  2. Ferrero International SA

  3. Mars Incorporated

  4. Mondelēz International Inc.

  5. Nestlé SA

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Europe Confectionery Market Concentration
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Europe Confectionery Market News

  • March 2023: Nestlé launched a new chocolate bar fused with two flavors, i.e., the Purple One and Green Triangle. These chocolate bars are available in supermarkets across the United Kingdom.
  • October 2022: Sirio Pharma launched two new gummies in Europe. The gummies are available in various fruit flavors and shapes.
  • August 2022: The German brand Haribo opened its first brand store in Poland.

Europe Confectionery Market Report - Table of Contents

1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY & KEY FINDINGS

2. REPORT OFFERS

3. INTRODUCTION

  • 3.1 Study Assumptions & Market Definition
  • 3.2 Scope of the Study​
  • 3.3 Research Methodology

4. KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS

  • 4.1 Regulatory Framework
  • 4.2 Consumer Buying Behavior
  • 4.3 Ingredient Analysis
  • 4.4 Value Chain & Distribution Channel Analysis

5. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes market size in Value in USD and Volume, Forecasts up to 2030 and analysis of growth prospects)

  • 5.1 Confections
    • 5.1.1 Chocolate
    • 5.1.1.1 By Confectionery Variant
    • 5.1.1.1.1 Dark Chocolate
    • 5.1.1.1.2 Milk and White Chocolate
    • 5.1.2 Gums
    • 5.1.2.1 By Confectionery Variant
    • 5.1.2.1.1 Bubble Gum
    • 5.1.2.1.2 Chewing Gum
    • 5.1.2.1.2.1 By Sugar Content
    • 5.1.2.1.2.1.1 Sugar Chewing Gum
    • 5.1.2.1.2.1.2 Sugar-free Chewing Gum
    • 5.1.3 Snack Bar
    • 5.1.3.1 By Confectionery Variant
    • 5.1.3.1.1 Cereal Bar
    • 5.1.3.1.2 Fruit & Nut Bar
    • 5.1.3.1.3 Protein Bar
    • 5.1.4 Sugar Confectionery
    • 5.1.4.1 By Confectionery Variant
    • 5.1.4.1.1 Hard Candy
    • 5.1.4.1.2 Lollipops
    • 5.1.4.1.3 Mints
    • 5.1.4.1.4 Pastilles, Gummies, and Jellies
    • 5.1.4.1.5 Toffees and Nougats
    • 5.1.4.1.6 Others
  • 5.2 Distribution Channel
    • 5.2.1 Convenience Store
    • 5.2.2 Online Retail Store
    • 5.2.3 Supermarket/Hypermarket
    • 5.2.4 Others
  • 5.3 Country
    • 5.3.1 Belgium
    • 5.3.2 France
    • 5.3.3 Germany
    • 5.3.4 Italy
    • 5.3.5 Netherlands
    • 5.3.6 Russia
    • 5.3.7 Spain
    • 5.3.8 Switzerland
    • 5.3.9 Turkey
    • 5.3.10 United Kingdom
    • 5.3.11 Rest of Europe

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Key Strategic Moves
  • 6.2 Market Share Analysis
  • 6.3 Company Landscape
  • 6.4 Company Profiles
    • 6.4.1 August Storck KG
    • 6.4.2 Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprüngli AG
    • 6.4.3 Confiserie Leonidas SA
    • 6.4.4 Delica AG
    • 6.4.5 Ferrero International SA
    • 6.4.6 HARIBO Holding GmbH & Co. KG
    • 6.4.7 Mars Incorporated
    • 6.4.8 Meiji Holdings Company Ltd
    • 6.4.9 Mondelēz International Inc.
    • 6.4.10 Nestlé SA
    • 6.4.11 Perfetti Van Melle BV
    • 6.4.12 Sirio Pharma Co. Ltd
    • 6.4.13 The Otmuchów Group
    • 6.4.14 Valrhona Chocolate
    • 6.4.15 Yıldız Holding AS
  • *List Not Exhaustive

7. KEY STRATEGIC QUESTIONS FOR CONFECTIONERY CEOS

8. APPENDIX

  • 8.1 Global Overview
    • 8.1.1 Overview
    • 8.1.2 Porter’s Five Forces Framework
    • 8.1.3 Global Value Chain Analysis
    • 8.1.4 Market Dynamics (DROs)
  • 8.2 Sources & References
  • 8.3 List of Tables & Figures
  • 8.4 Primary Insights
  • 8.5 Data Pack
  • 8.6 Glossary of Terms
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Europe Confectionery Industry Segmentation

Chocolate, Gums, Snack Bar, Sugar Confectionery are covered as segments by Confections. Convenience Store, Online Retail Store, Supermarket/Hypermarket, Others are covered as segments by Distribution Channel. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom are covered as segments by Country.
Confections Chocolate By Confectionery Variant Dark Chocolate
Milk and White Chocolate
Gums By Confectionery Variant Bubble Gum
Chewing Gum By Sugar Content Sugar Chewing Gum
Sugar-free Chewing Gum
Snack Bar By Confectionery Variant Cereal Bar
Fruit & Nut Bar
Protein Bar
Sugar Confectionery By Confectionery Variant Hard Candy
Lollipops
Mints
Pastilles, Gummies, and Jellies
Toffees and Nougats
Others
Distribution Channel Convenience Store
Online Retail Store
Supermarket/Hypermarket
Others
Country Belgium
France
Germany
Italy
Netherlands
Russia
Spain
Switzerland
Turkey
United Kingdom
Rest of Europe
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Europe Confectionery Market Research FAQs

How big is the Europe Confectionery Market?

The Europe Confectionery Market size is expected to reach USD 72.38 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 4.69% to reach USD 91.03 billion by 2030.

What is the current Europe Confectionery Market size?

In 2025, the Europe Confectionery Market size is expected to reach USD 72.38 billion.

Who are the key players in Europe Confectionery Market?

Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprüngli AG, Ferrero International SA, Mars Incorporated, Mondelēz International Inc. and Nestlé SA are the major companies operating in the Europe Confectionery Market.

Which segment has the biggest share in the Europe Confectionery Market?

In the Europe Confectionery Market, the Supermarket/Hypermarket segment accounts for the largest share by distribution channel.

Which country has the biggest share in the Europe Confectionery Market?

In 2025, United Kingdom accounts for the largest share by country in the Europe Confectionery Market.

What years does this Europe Confectionery Market cover, and what was the market size in 2025?

In 2025, the Europe Confectionery Market size was estimated at 72.38 billion. The report covers the Europe Confectionery Market historical market size for years: 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Europe Confectionery Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

Europe Confectionery Market Research

Mordor Intelligence offers a comprehensive analysis of the European confectionery industry. This includes everything from candy and sweets to premium chocolate confectionery products. Our extensive research covers key markets such as Germany, Turkey, Poland, and Spain's confectionery sectors. Detailed insights are available in an easy-to-download report PDF format. The analysis examines the evolving landscape of confections and traditional confectionery products across the region. Special attention is given to the dynamic UK sugar and gum confectionery segment.

Our report provides stakeholders with crucial insights into the size of the confectionery market and future growth trajectories. It includes a detailed analysis of leading European candy companies and industry pioneers. The research delivers valuable intelligence for businesses operating in the Europe confectionery market. It includes comprehensive forecasts and strategic recommendations. Stakeholders gain access to detailed assessments of market dynamics, consumer preferences, and emerging opportunities across various confectionery segments. This enables informed decision-making and strategic planning for sustainable growth in this competitive landscape.

Europe Confectionery Market Report Snapshots