Market Trends of Europe Premium Chocolate Industry
This section covers the major market trends shaping the Europe Premium Chocolate Market according to our research experts:
Health Beneficial Premium Chocolates on Rise
The demand for fine-flavor cocoa in Europe is experiencing substantial growth, as ultra and high-end beans are used for gourmet chocolates, and regular and low-fine beans are used for traditional premium chocolates. High-end cocoa beans include various health benefits when consumed in recommended quantities. Dark chocolate or cocoa powder both have the potential to lower blood pressure. The first people to experience this effect were the cocoa-drinking islands of Central America, who had lower blood pressure than their non-coco-drinking mainland relatives. Nitric oxide levels in the blood are raised by the flavanols in cocoa, which also enhance blood vessel health and lower blood pressure.
Increased awareness of people regarding the health benefits of dark premium chocolates, which have antioxidants, many essential nutrients, vitamins, etc., and mass media promotions like social media, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and many other online and offline promotions are fueling the demand in the region. Growing import of cocoa beans into the region to address the demand is a clear sign of the market's growth. For instance, according to International Trade Center, in 2021, Europe imported almost 2.273 thousand tons of cocoa beans, an increase compared to 2020 imports, which accounted for about 2.108 thousand tons. Moreover, the growing popularity among premium chocolates as a token of love, happiness, and appreciation, which are given as presents during the festive season, primarily attracts consumers who are influenced by the price, packaging, ingredients, authenticity, or product, and the buying experience is anticipated to boost the demand for chocolates.
Germany Dominates the European Premium Chocolate Market
The German premium chocolate market is growing at a faster rate as dark chocolate with high-quality cocoa content, mixed with assorted nuts, has become a gourmet product in the country. The country has large cocoa and chocolate manufacturing industry with high production volumes which are supporting the growth of the market. Local players, such as Bremer Hachez ChocoladeGmbH & Co. KG, are continuously selecting unique ingredients, such as fine cocoa, cocoa butter, genuine bourbon vanilla, and other exquisite raw materials, such as nuts and almonds, to offer authentic taste, coupled with additional nutritional value, to its premium to an ultra-premium range of chocolates. Additionally, consumers try to control the quantity of chocolate intake in Germany by opting for bite-sized chocolate. These factors have helped to boost the demand for premium chocolates in the country and have created new opportunities for the players to offer innovative products.
Moreover, consumers have gradually started purchasing premium chocolates in boxes as gifts, owing to the variety in flavors and textures. The trend of premium textured chocolate, added with grains or cereals, is growing among chocolate consumers in Germany. In addition, the packaging is also playing a prominent role. Hence, manufacturers are wrapping their premium chocolates in innovative wraps, such as ecological packaging, especially to attract younger consumers who are highly aware of sustainability.
The German premium chocolate market for bio-organic chocolate tablets is rapidly growing, and tablets are the main products in this market. The phenomenon of organic premium chocolates is no more a niche, and the supply of organic products is expanding. Hence, consumers favoring dark chocolates, premium ingredients, and high-quality cocoa in the country are expected to further boost the market's growth in the region.
