Europe Frozen Food Market Size & Share Analysis - Growth Trends & Forecasts (2025 - 2030)

Europe Frozen Food Market Trends and Insights

Demand for plant-based frozen meals among flexitarians

Flexitarians increasingly seek out plant-based frozen meals, driving growth in the Europe Frozen Food Market. According to the European Vegetarian Union (EVU), the demand for plant-based products has surged due to growing health consciousness, ethical considerations, and environmental concerns. The European Commission's Farm to Fork Strategy, which aims to create a sustainable food system, has further encouraged the adoption of plant-based alternatives. Additionally, a report by the European Environment Agency highlights the role of plant-based diets in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with the European Union's climate goals under the European Green Deal. Governments across Europe are also introducing policies and funding programs to support plant-based food innovation and production. For instance, Germany's Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture has invested in research and development for plant-based food technologies. These initiatives, combined with increasing consumer awareness, are significantly contributing to the rising popularity of plant-based frozen meals among flexitarian consumers, thereby driving the market's growth.

Ultrafast grocery apps using frozen as high-margin basket driver

In the European frozen food market, ultrafast grocery apps are leveraging frozen products as a key driver for high-margin baskets. These apps capitalize on the convenience and longer shelf life of frozen foods, which appeal to urban consumers with busy lifestyles with World Bank data revealing that in 2023, urbanization in the European Union reached 76%.^{[1]Office for National Statistics, "Long-term international migration, provisional: year ending December 2024", www.ons.gov.uk}. Frozen vegetables, ready-to-eat meals, frozen pizzas, and frozen desserts are among the top-selling categories, as they offer quick meal solutions without compromising on quality. Companies like Gorillas, Getir, and Flink have reported increased sales in frozen food categories, attributing this growth to the rising demand for convenience and the ability to stock up on essentials without frequent trips to the store. Moreover, frozen seafood, such as shrimp and fish fillets, has gained popularity among health-conscious consumers who seek nutritious meal options that are easy to prepare. 

Globalization of cuisines fueling market growth

The globalization of cuisines is significantly driving the growth of the European frozen food market. As consumers increasingly explore diverse culinary experiences, the demand for frozen food products representing various international cuisines has surged. For instance, the rising popularity of Asian dishes such as sushi, dumplings, and stir-fried meals has led to an increased presence of frozen Asian food products in European supermarkets. As of December 2024, 266,000 non-EU+ nationals moved to the UK for study-related purposes, closely trailing work-related immigration, which accounted for 262,000 individuals, according to the Office for National Statistics ^{[2]World Bank, "Urban population (% of total population) - European Union", www.data.worldbank.org/}. Similarly, Italian frozen pizzas and pasta dishes continue to dominate the market, catering to the growing preference for convenient yet authentic meal options. Additionally, the influence of Middle Eastern and Mexican cuisines has introduced frozen falafels, kebabs, and burritos to the market, further diversifying product offerings. This trend is supported by the growing multicultural population in Europe and the increasing willingness of consumers to experiment with global flavors. As a result, manufacturers are focusing on expanding their product portfolios to include a wide range of international frozen food options, thereby fueling market growth.

Advancement in freezing technology

Market expansion is being propelled by the evolution of Individual Quick Freezing (IQF) technology, which enhances product quality, boosts energy efficiency, and offers operational flexibility. This flexibility allows processors to cater to a variety of market segments with consistent outcomes. For instance, Belgian hamburger processors are turning to OctoFrost's Multi-Level Impingement Freezer. This advanced freezing system not only tackles traditional issues like product dehydration, space limitations, and inconsistent quality but also slashes energy consumption by up to 10% when stacked against conventional methods. Meanwhile, DSI Dantech's mechanical IQF solutions harness rapid air circulation to thwart the formation of large ice crystals. This preservation technique safeguards the cellular structure and nutritional value of the product. Furthermore, these solutions come with customizable configurations tailored for varying production scales. Thanks to these technological strides, smaller producers now find themselves on a more level playing field with their industrial-scale counterparts, all while emphasizing product differentiation through enhanced quality and minimized waste.

Anti-processed food activism dampening frozen meat demand

Consumer skepticism towards processed meat products is on the rise across Europe. There is a growing preference for whole foods over prefabricated substitutes, driven by concerns over health and processing. This shift poses challenges for traditional frozen meat categories. Notably, the demand for frozen meat is particularly impacted, as consumers now link freezing more with industrial processing than with preservation. This perception persists despite technological advancements that ensure nutritional integrity. The movement, bolstered by social media campaigns and health advocacy groups, champions fresh preparation over convenience. As a result, frozen meat producers are compelled to enhance transparency and bolster educational initiatives. In response, manufacturers are reformulating products to minimize additives and spotlight natural ingredients. However, they grapple with effectively communicating the benefits of their processing methods, all while addressing valid health concerns related to sodium content and preservatives.

High sodium and fat content concerns

The high sodium and fat content in frozen foods is a significant restraint for the European frozen food market. Consumers are increasingly becoming health-conscious, leading to a growing demand for healthier food options. Frozen foods, often perceived as less nutritious due to their high levels of sodium and fat, face scrutiny from both consumers and regulatory bodies. This concern is further amplified by the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, such as hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity, which are linked to excessive sodium and fat intake. Additionally, the European market is witnessing a shift in dietary preferences, with consumers leaning toward fresh, organic, and minimally processed foods. This trend poses a challenge for frozen food manufacturers, as their products are often associated with preservatives and additives, further deterring health-conscious buyers. Regulatory authorities in Europe are also implementing stricter guidelines and labeling requirements to ensure transparency about the nutritional content of food products. These regulations compel manufacturers to disclose sodium and fat levels, which can influence purchasing decisions and potentially limit market growth.

Segment Analysis

By Product Type: Ready Meals Lead Convenience Revolution

The European frozen food market in 2024 sees frozen ready meals commanding a 27.29% market share, highlighting the growing consumer preference for convenience without compromising on meal satisfaction. This segment's dominance is driven by culinary globalization, which has introduced restaurant-quality international cuisines to home freezers. The adoption of IQF technology plays a pivotal role in maintaining the texture and flavor integrity of these meals during storage and preparation. Additionally, frozen snacks and appetizers have emerged as the fastest-growing segment, with an impressive 8.3% CAGR projected through 2030. This growth is fueled by the rising 'snackification' trend, particularly among younger demographics, who increasingly seek quick and easy snack options that align with their busy lifestyles. 

The frozen meat and poultry segments, however, face significant challenges in the European market. Anti-processed food activism and stringent regulations related to African swine fever have disrupted supply chains across multiple EU member states, creating headwinds for this category ^{[3]European Commission, "Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2526, www.eur-lex.europa.eu.} . On the other hand, frozen fish and seafood are experiencing robust growth, supported by their strong sustainability positioning and the promotion of omega-3 health benefits. These factors resonate well with health-conscious consumers and those prioritizing environmentally friendly food choices, further driving demand in this segment.

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

By Product Category: Ready-to-Eat Dominance Meets Cooking Renaissance

In 2024, ready-to-eat products dominate the market with a 61.39% share, driven by the growing demand from time-pressed consumers seeking immediate meal solutions. This segment benefits significantly from the rise of ultrafast grocery delivery platforms, which position ready-to-eat items as high-margin products that enhance customer loyalty through consistent quality and convenience. These products cater primarily to busy professionals who prioritize zero-preparation options, aligning with their fast-paced lifestyles. The convenience offered by ready-to-eat products, combined with their ability to meet quality expectations, has solidified their position as a key driver in the market. This dominance reflects a broader trend where consumers increasingly value time efficiency in their food choices. 

The ready-to-cook segment, on the other hand, is projected to grow at a 7.6% CAGR through 2030, as consumers seek a balance between convenience and culinary engagement. This growth is fueled by the influence of social media cooking trends and the continuation of home cooking habits developed during the pandemic. Ready-to-cook products appeal to food enthusiasts who enjoy creative cooking experiences without the need for extensive shopping or preparation. Additionally, the extended shelf life of frozen ingredients in this segment reduces food waste compared to fresh alternatives, making them an attractive option for consumers aiming to minimize waste. As mobility normalizes, the ready-to-cook segment continues to thrive, supported by its ability to offer convenience while enabling consumers to develop and showcase their cooking skills.

By Distribution Channel: Digital Transformation Accelerates Traditional Retail

In 2024, supermarkets and hypermarkets maintain a dominant 45.75% market share, driven by their extensive frozen food sections and effective promotional strategies. These retail formats cater to consumer preferences for physical product inspection and immediate availability, particularly for bulk purchases and family meal planning. Frozen foods, with their extended storage benefits, align well with these needs, making Supermarkets & Hypermarkets a preferred choice for many shoppers. Additionally, these stores capitalize on their ability to offer a wide variety of frozen products, ensuring they remain a key player in the market. Convenience Stores also contribute to the market by strategically expanding their frozen food offerings, addressing consumer demand for impulse purchases and emergency meal solutions. 

On the other hand, online stores are emerging as the fastest-growing distribution channel, with a projected CAGR of 9.6% through 2030. This growth is fueled by the rise of quick commerce platforms and advancements in last-mile cold chain logistics, which ensure the efficient delivery of frozen products. Digital channels are gaining traction by emphasizing convenience and employing targeted marketing strategies that appeal to urban consumers. These time-pressed individuals are willing to pay delivery premiums for easy access to frozen products. Furthermore, other retail formats, such as specialty frozen food stores and warehouse clubs, cater to specific consumer segments. These formats attract shoppers seeking variety or bulk purchasing options, further diversifying the frozen food retail landscape.

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

Geography Analysis

In 2024, Germany commands a dominant 23.87% share of the European frozen food market. This leadership is bolstered by a robust cold chain infrastructure, a consumer base that embraces premium frozen offerings, and manufacturing capabilities that cater to both domestic needs and exports across Europe. Strong partnerships between frozen food manufacturers and major supermarket chains enhance the German market's retail landscape. Furthermore, industrial-scale production facilities facilitate cost-effective distribution throughout Central and Eastern Europe. Yet, the market grapples with economic challenges: high energy costs and inflation are reshaping consumption patterns. While the market overall sees growth, certain segments, like frozen berries, highlight the constraints on broader consumer spending ^{[4]Centre for the Promotion of Imports, “The European market potential for frozen berries”, www.cbi.eu}. 

France is on the fast track, boasting a 5.64% CAGR projected through 2030. This growth is fueled by urbanization, evolving lifestyles, and a deep-rooted food culture that values culinary standards and authenticity in frozen products. Innovations in frozen bakery items and the sophistication of ready meals resonate with France's gastronomic traditions, offering modern convenience. Companies like Picard Surgelés champion frozen foods as premium choices rather than mere budget alternatives. Additionally, industrial uses, such as jam production, ensure a steady demand for frozen berries and fruits. As the foodservice sector rebounds, there's a notable uptick in demand for frozen ingredients and prepared foods, catering to restaurants and catering services.

Despite the trade intricacies post-Brexit, the United Kingdom remains a formidable player in the frozen food arena. The nation's diverse palate leans heavily on frozen vegetables, ready meals, and ethnic cuisines. United Kingdom consumers, balancing busy lifestyles with a focus on nutrition, show a marked preference for frozen offerings. Notably, the surge in smoothie consumption has amplified the demand for frozen berries, and the rising popularity of meal kits presents a golden opportunity for suppliers of frozen ingredients. Meanwhile, the Netherlands and Belgium stand out as pivotal distribution centers in the European frozen food landscape. Companies like Greenyard and ARDO capitalize on their strategic locations and logistics prowess, ensuring quality standards through advanced cold chain management as they cater to markets across Europe.