Market Size of europe cheese Industry
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Study Period | 2017 - 2029 |
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Market Size (2024) | USD 73.97 Billion |
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Market Size (2029) | USD 91.5 Billion |
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Largest Share by Distribution Channel | Off-Trade |
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CAGR (2024 - 2029) | 4.35 % |
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Largest Share by Country | France |
Major Players |
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*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
Europe Cheese Market Analysis
The Europe Cheese Market size is estimated at 73.97 billion USD in 2024, and is expected to reach 91.5 billion USD by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 4.35% during the forecast period (2024-2029).
73.97 Billion
Market Size in 2024 (USD)
91.5 Billion
Market Size in 2029 (USD)
2.68 %
CAGR (2017-2023)
4.35 %
CAGR (2024-2029)
Largest Market by Distribution Channel
78.11 %
value share, Off-Trade, 2023
The availability of a wide range of products with several brand options in cheese products and the ease of free checkout and delivery options are aiding the segmental growth.
Largest Market by Country
25.31 %
value share, France, 2023
The increasing influence of Western cuisine among the consumers in France, inflated wages, and the introduction of various enhanced cheese flavors are promoting the cheese market.
Fastest-growing Market by Distribution Channel
4.66 %
Projected CAGR, Off-Trade, 2024-2029
The growth of segment in the region is largely driven with the existence of an inviting place for customers to shop, as they are constantly drawn to make large purchases.
Fastest-growing Market by Country
7.63 %
Projected CAGR, Germany, 2024-2029
Changing food preferences and an increasing number of working women in the country are expected to fuel expansion potential in the cheese market during the forecasted period.
Leading Market Player
8.33 %
market share, Groupe Lactalis, 2022
The increased processing capacities by Groupe Lactalis with innovations in the product portfolio during the study period is making the company stand out in the market.
Greater presence of supermarket and hypermarket is promoting the retailing segment in europe
- The high market share of off-trade channels is primarily driven by hypermarkets/supermarkets. Strategic product positioning, dedicated shelf space for cheese products, and the availability of local brands, along with global brands, are key factors driving cheese sales through these channels. In Europe, supermarkets/hypermarkets covered 58.45% of cheese sales, in terms of value, in 2022.
- Key supermarket and hypermarket chains have established a network of stores in different locations across the region to cover the maximum market. Some of the major operators identified in the market include Metro Group, Ahold Delhaize, Fidesco, AmazonFresh, Walmart, Tesco, REWE Group, Kaufland, and Aldi. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom hold the largest number of supermarket and hypermarket stores in the region. In 2022, three countries collectively acquired a 36.29% share in the overall cheese sales volume through supermarkets and hypermarkets in Europe.
- The online channel is projected to be the fastest-growing distribution channel as modern consumers prefer online grocery purchases due to their busy lifestyles. The increasing number of online cheese shops in response to the rising number of internet users is anticipated to drive online sales of natural cheese during the forecast period. In 2022, the share of households with internet access was recorded as 93%, up from 72% in 2011. Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy are the countries with high penetration of internet users. Key online cheese retailers include FROMAGES.COM, The East London Cheese Board, La Gourmeta, Love Cheese, Italia Regina, and Frank and Sal. The online channel sales value is anticipated to register a CAGR of 5.15% during 2023-2029.
Explosive cheese consumption led by Germany, France, and Italy is fueling the growth
- Cheese has traditionally been considered the preferred outlet for milk from the European Union after local fresh-milk requirements have been met. The cheese segment acquired a market volume share of 11.20% in 2022, with a volume sales growth of 8.46% from 2017 to 2022. Cheese is an integral part of European cuisines like Italian, British, German, Greek, and French.
- Germany, France, and Italy are highly cheese-consuming countries and collectively covered 39.53% volume of the overall cheese consumed in the region in 2022. More than 400 types of cheeses are produced in Italy. Mozzarella, parmesan, and Pecorino are commonly used cheeses in regional Italian cuisines. Pizza, Balsamic di Modena, Risotto, Tortellini, Polenta, and Pesto are key Italian dishes featuring cheese either as a topping or filling.
- The fact that an average French individual consumes 26.5 kilograms of cheese per year adds to its prominence. In fact, almost 40% of people consume cheese every day, and over 95% have included it in their regular diet. The consumption of value-added dairy products like cheese is growing in the United Kingdom. This has influenced processors using raw milk delivered off farms. In 2019, the volume of raw milk going into cheese rose by 1.09 billion liters.
- Supermarkets/hypermarkets are identified as major distribution channels for cheese in Europe. The segment acquired a 44.33% share of the overall sales volume in 2022. On-trade consumption of cheese is driven by the presence of leading fast-food brands such as McDonald’s, KFC, Taco Bell, Subway, and Burger King. Burger King, a France-based fast-food restaurant chain, has more than 480 stores across France. Volume sales across on-trade channels are projected to register a CAGR of 0.73% during 2023-2029.
Europe Cheese Industry Segmentation
Natural Cheese, Processed Cheese are covered as segments by Product Type. Off-Trade, On-Trade are covered as segments by Distribution Channel. Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Russia, Spain, Turkey, United Kingdom are covered as segments by Country.
- The high market share of off-trade channels is primarily driven by hypermarkets/supermarkets. Strategic product positioning, dedicated shelf space for cheese products, and the availability of local brands, along with global brands, are key factors driving cheese sales through these channels. In Europe, supermarkets/hypermarkets covered 58.45% of cheese sales, in terms of value, in 2022.
- Key supermarket and hypermarket chains have established a network of stores in different locations across the region to cover the maximum market. Some of the major operators identified in the market include Metro Group, Ahold Delhaize, Fidesco, AmazonFresh, Walmart, Tesco, REWE Group, Kaufland, and Aldi. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom hold the largest number of supermarket and hypermarket stores in the region. In 2022, three countries collectively acquired a 36.29% share in the overall cheese sales volume through supermarkets and hypermarkets in Europe.
- The online channel is projected to be the fastest-growing distribution channel as modern consumers prefer online grocery purchases due to their busy lifestyles. The increasing number of online cheese shops in response to the rising number of internet users is anticipated to drive online sales of natural cheese during the forecast period. In 2022, the share of households with internet access was recorded as 93%, up from 72% in 2011. Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy are the countries with high penetration of internet users. Key online cheese retailers include FROMAGES.COM, The East London Cheese Board, La Gourmeta, Love Cheese, Italia Regina, and Frank and Sal. The online channel sales value is anticipated to register a CAGR of 5.15% during 2023-2029.
| Product Type | |
| Natural Cheese | |
| Processed Cheese |
| Distribution Channel | |||||||||
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| On-Trade |
| Country | |
| Belgium | |
| France | |
| Germany | |
| Italy | |
| Netherlands | |
| Russia | |
| Spain | |
| Turkey | |
| United Kingdom | |
| Rest of Europe |
Europe Cheese Market Size Summary
The European cheese market is experiencing a robust growth trajectory, driven by a combination of traditional consumption patterns and evolving distribution channels. Supermarkets and hypermarkets dominate the market, leveraging strategic product placement and a mix of local and global brands to capture significant sales. The presence of major chains like Metro Group, Ahold Delhaize, and Tesco across Germany, France, and the United Kingdom underscores the region's preference for these off-trade channels. Meanwhile, the online distribution channel is emerging as the fastest-growing segment, fueled by the increasing number of internet users and the convenience of online grocery shopping. Countries such as the Netherlands, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy are leading in online cheese sales, with key retailers like FROMAGES.COM and Love Cheese capitalizing on this trend.
Cheese holds a central place in European cuisine, with countries like Germany, France, and Italy being the largest consumers. The market is characterized by a diverse range of cheese types, with Italy producing over 400 varieties, including mozzarella, parmesan, and pecorino, which are staples in Italian dishes. The French, known for their high cheese consumption, incorporate it into their daily diet, reflecting its cultural significance. The market is fragmented, with major players like Arla Foods, Groupe Lactalis, and The Kraft Heinz Company holding a modest share. Recent strategic moves, such as Granarolo's acquisition of Mario Costa and Sodiaal's investment in cheese development, highlight ongoing efforts to enhance market positioning and product offerings.
Europe Cheese Market Size - Table of Contents
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1. MARKET SEGMENTATION (includes market size in Value in USD and Volume, Forecasts up to 2029 and analysis of growth prospects)
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1.1 Product Type
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1.1.1 Natural Cheese
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1.1.2 Processed Cheese
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1.2 Distribution Channel
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1.2.1 Off-Trade
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1.2.1.1 By Sub Distribution Channels
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1.2.1.1.1 Convenience Stores
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1.2.1.1.2 Online Retail
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1.2.1.1.3 Specialist Retailers
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1.2.1.1.4 Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
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1.2.1.1.5 Others (Warehouse clubs, gas stations, etc.)
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1.2.2 On-Trade
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1.3 Country
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1.3.1 Belgium
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1.3.2 France
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1.3.3 Germany
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1.3.4 Italy
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1.3.5 Netherlands
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1.3.6 Russia
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1.3.7 Spain
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1.3.8 Turkey
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1.3.9 United Kingdom
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1.3.10 Rest of Europe
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Europe Cheese Market Size FAQs
How big is the Europe Cheese Market?
The Europe Cheese Market size is expected to reach USD 73.97 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 4.35% to reach USD 91.50 billion by 2029.
What is the current Europe Cheese Market size?
In 2024, the Europe Cheese Market size is expected to reach USD 73.97 billion.
