Western Europe

Consumers have resumed their more active lifestyles outside the home since quarantine limitations were lifted, which has also affected their product preferences. This change has also had an impact on the ice cream category, with more people beginning…

The gum category suffered a significant setback due to the COVID-19 health crisis in 2020, particularly as it heavily relies on impulse purchasing. Many consumers opted for online shopping amidst pandemic-induced lockdowns, which led to a steep…

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant negative impact on chocolate confectionery in Belgium, particularly in terms of gifting chocolate formats. With the closure of many non-essential stores and the cancellation of social events such as weddings…

Numerous developments have been witnessed in sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks, given the current economic climate and new regulations. The cost-of-living crisis has forced consumers to rethink their spending and reduce unnecessary…

Sugar confectionery recorded mixed results in 2022, with certain types benefiting from the recovery of on-the-go purchases, while others were severely hit by the implementation of the HFSS regulation, effective since October. Mints and medicated…

In 2023, the UK’s economy continues to be challenged by strong inflationary pressures. Similar to other food industries, snack manufacturers are having to address multiple shortages in the supply chain, in addition to increasing costs of…

Savoury snacks was one of the most severely affected categories by the supply chain crisis in 2022. The rising production costs due to the energy crisis, labour shortages, and the increasing price of raw materials across the entire supply chain led…

Dairy ice cream has seen some of the highest price increases within dairy products, pushing local consumers to review their purchases and limit spending on their sweet impulses. In addition to these economic challenges, current HFSS regulation is…

Following two consecutive years of sales decline, gum showed the first signs of recovery from the impact of COVID-19 in 2022. With local consumers gradually returning to their pre-pandemic habits and spending greater time outside of the home, gum…

The UK’s economy was challenged by strong inflationary pressures in 2022. Similar to other categories in snacks, chocolate confectionery manufacturers were challenged by multiple shortages in the supply chain, which led to increasing costs in…