Global Candy Market Poised to Reach USD 93.07 Billion by 2033

According to Renub Research Latest Report candy market is expected to expand significantly, rising from USD 65.22 billion in 2024 to USD 93.07 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 4.03%. Increasing consumer demand for confectionery products, innovation in flavors and packaging, and the rising popularity of premium and sugar-free candies are key drivers of this growth. Furthermore, emerging markets, seasonal gifting occasions, and evolving lifestyle preferences are expected to bolster the global candy industry.

Candy, a sweet treat made from sugar, chocolate, or a combination of ingredients such as fruits, nuts, and flavorings, has been an enduring part of human culture. Its forms include hard candies, gummies, chocolates, caramels, licorice, pastilles, toffees, and mints. With its universal appeal, candy is consumed as a snack, a celebratory item, or a gift, making it integral to holidays like Halloween, Christmas, Easter, and Valentine’s Day.

👉 Want to explore detailed market trends, segment insights, and forecasts? 🔗 Request Free Sample Report

Global Candy Market Overview

Candy has evolved beyond simple sweetness; it now embodies joy, indulgence, and social sharing. Rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and globalized brands have expanded candy consumption across children, millennials, and adults alike. Innovative marketing campaigns, limited-edition flavors, and attractive packaging further strengthen the candy market by stimulating impulse purchases.

The global candy market can be broadly segmented by type and distribution channels. Chocolate candy dominates due to its universal appeal, while non-chocolate candy, including hard candies, mints, and gummies, maintains a steady demand. Distribution channels range from supermarkets, convenience stores, specialty retailers, online retail, and other outlets, with online platforms gaining prominence for their convenience and wider product variety.

Key Growth Drivers

1. Premium and Health-Oriented Options

Consumers increasingly seek organic, sugar-free, gluten-free, and artisanal candies, particularly among millennials and Gen Z, who balance indulgence with health-conscious choices. Premium candies with unique flavors, natural ingredients, and high-quality packaging attract discerning buyers.

For example, Hormbles Chormbles (April 2025) launched zero-sugar, high-protein candy bars, offering 10g of protein in just 100 calories per 33g bar, blending indulgence with nutritional benefits. Such innovations cater to growing health-focused consumer segments without sacrificing taste.

2. Expanding Middle-Class Population and Urbanization

Rising incomes and urban lifestyles, especially in India, China, and Brazil, have increased access to global confectionery brands and premium products. Urban consumers often make impulse purchases, motivated by attractive packaging, flavor innovations, and brand loyalty.

Over half of the world’s countries are middle-income nations, offering a diverse market for candy manufacturers with opportunities spanning urban, suburban, and rural consumers.

3. Seasonal Promotions and Innovative Marketing

Candy consumption spikes during holidays and festive events, supported by limited-edition products, colorful packaging, and promotional campaigns. Brands leverage pop culture, film tie-ins, and social media influencers to generate hype and drive sales.

For instance, Tic Tac (February 2025) launched Tic Tac Chewy, a crunchy-shelled, chewy-centered fruity candy, supported by quirky short videos filmed in unconventional settings like tattoo parlors and courtrooms to reach diverse consumer segments.

Challenges Facing the Global Candy Market

1. Health Concerns and Regulatory Pressure

Rising awareness of obesity, diabetes, and sugar-related health issues is prompting consumers to limit candy intake. Governments are imposing sugar taxes and stricter labeling regulations, forcing manufacturers to reformulate products while maintaining taste and affordability.

2. Supply Chain Volatility

Raw materials such as cocoa, sugar, and milk face price fluctuations due to geopolitical tensions, climate change, and logistics bottlenecks. These challenges may lead to stock shortages, higher costs, and reduced profit margins, affecting consistent market growth.

Market Insights by Candy Type

Chocolate Candy

Chocolate dominates the global candy market thanks to its emotional appeal and universal popularity. Consumers enjoy milk, dark, and white chocolate in diverse forms, from bars to truffles. Premiumization trends, including artisanal chocolates with exotic flavors such as sea salt, chili, or tropical fruits, are gaining traction. Ethical sourcing and organic certifications are increasingly valued by consumers, aligning with global sustainability trends.

Hard Boiled Candy

Hard candies maintain a strong presence due to their long shelf life, vibrant colors, and nostalgic appeal. They remain popular across age groups and regions, particularly in emerging markets. Innovations such as sugar-free formulations and natural coloring ensure continued relevance in health-conscious markets.

Mints

Mints serve a dual purpose as breath fresheners and confectionery items. Variants with natural ingredients and sugar-free options are in demand. Convenience-focused packaging, such as resealable packs and travel-friendly formats, further drives their adoption.

Distribution Channel Trends

Convenience Stores

Convenience stores capitalize on impulse buying behaviors, positioning candy near checkout counters to attract frequent purchases. Small packs, value packs, and economically priced products encourage rapid turnover. Urbanization and on-the-go consumption strengthen the dominance of convenience stores in candy sales.

Online Retail

E-commerce has transformed candy purchasing globally. Online platforms provide access to international, specialty, and premium candies unavailable locally. Features like subscription boxes, gifting options, and exclusive online promotions have expanded reach. Digital marketing and mobile-friendly shopping experiences are accelerating the growth of online candy sales.

Regional Market Analysis

United States

The U.S. is the largest candy consumer globally, with holidays like Halloween, Easter, and Christmas driving significant sales spikes. Demand for premium, organic, and innovative flavors is growing, while sugar-free and plant-based products cater to health-conscious buyers. Supermarkets, convenience stores, and online retail are key sales channels.

For example, Goodis (November 2024), a Swedish candy brand, launched an online store in the U.S., providing quick delivery across the country and increasing access to premium imported sweets.

France

France’s candy market emphasizes quality, authenticity, and taste integrity, particularly in chocolates and high-end confections. Seasonal gifting occasions and organic and sugar-free trends support market growth. Brands like Ricola have expanded retail presence to reach urban consumers seeking plant-based and health-friendly candies.

India

India’s candy market is growing rapidly due to its large youth population, rising disposable income, and urbanization. Popularity among children, re-formulation of traditional sweets into candy formats, and increasing online retail penetration contribute to growth.

For example, Mondelez India (August 2024) launched Cadbury Silk Desserts, extending the Cadbury Silk chocolate brand into cake-like candy bars.

Mexico

Mexican candies combine traditional and modern flavors, including tamarind, chili, and tropical fruits. Urbanization, rising incomes, and cultural festive habits drive demand. Health-conscious trends are encouraging low-sugar and fortified candies.

Saudi Arabia

The candy market benefits from a young population, tourism, and Western confectionery preferences. Seasonal festivities like Ramadan and Eid boost candy consumption, particularly for gifting and hospitality. Premium and health-oriented candy forms are increasingly popular.

👉 For deeper analysis, detailed segment data, and company insights: 🔗 Request Customization Report

Market Segmentation

By Type:

Chocolate Candy

Non-Chocolate Candy

Hard Boiled Candies

Pastilles, Gums, Jellies, Chews

Toffees, Caramels, Nougat

Mints

Other Non-Chocolate Candies

By Distribution Channel:

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets

Convenience Stores

Specialty Retailers

Online Retail

Other Channels

By Region/Country:

North America: United States, Canada

Europe: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, UK, Belgium, Netherlands, Turkey

Asia Pacific: China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, New Zealand

Latin America: Brazil, Argentina, Mexico

Middle East & Africa: South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE

Key Players in the Global Candy Market

Perfetti Van Melle Group BV

The Topps Company Inc.

Mondelez International Inc.

Haribo GmbH & Co. KG

Mars Incorporated

Ferrero Group

Nestle SA

The Hershey Company

Grupo Arcor

Cloetta AB

These companies are investing in product innovation, health-oriented candies, premiumization, seasonal campaigns, and digital marketing to capture global market share.

Future Outlook

The global candy market is expected to maintain steady growth through 2033, driven by:

Premiumization and healthier options

Urbanization and expanding middle-class populations

Seasonal and gifting trends

E-commerce and digital marketing penetration

Emerging markets and developed countries alike are expected to embrace innovations in flavor, packaging, and sugar-free alternatives, ensuring candy remains a relevant and indulgent product worldwide.

With an anticipated market value of USD 93.07 billion by 2033, the global candy industry continues to be one of the most dynamic and emotionally resonant sectors in the food and beverage industry, appealing to a diverse demographic and offering endless opportunities for innovation and growth.

Note: If you need details, data, or insights not covered in this report, we are glad to assist. Through our customization service, we will collect and deliver the information you require, tailored to your specific needs. Share your requirements with us, and we will update the report to align with your expectations.