Sugar Confectionery Market Assessment, By Type [Hard-boiled Sweets, Liquorice, Medicated Confectionery, Gelatin Sweets, Caramels and Nougat, Others], By Ingredients [Natural, Synthetic], By Price [Economy, Premium], By End-user [Kids, Adults], By Distribu

Sugar Confectionery Market Assessment, By Type [Hard-boiled Sweets, Liquorice, Medicated Confectionery, Gelatin Sweets, Caramels and Nougat, Others], By Ingredients [Natural, Synthetic], By Price [Economy, Premium], By End-user [Kids, Adults], By Distribution Channel [Online, Offline], By Region, Opportunities and Forecast, 2017-2031F

Global sugar confectionery market was valued at USD 51.03 billion in 2023, expected to reach USD 69.84 billion in 2031, with a CAGR of 4% during the forecast period between 2024 and 2031. The key factors contributing to the market's growth are the rising population of children and youth, its universal appeal, rising demand for confectionaries, and the increasing popularity of on-the-go snack options. As per the study by the National Confectioners Association in April 2024, people living in the United States consume candies 2-3 times a week, driving the growth of the sugar confectionery market as well.

In addition, the industry has seen an increase in demand for low-sugar variants made using natural components. The market players have been catering to health-conscious consumers by introducing healthier substitutes without sacrificing quality or taste. In March 2024, food tech company Incredo introduced a non-GMO concentrated sugar-based sugar reduction solution, Incredo Sugar G2, made from a combination of protein and real sugar, for use in chocolates, baked goods, gummies, and spreads. It has fuelled the demand for functional candies enriched with vitamins and other minerals.

Product innovation has been a fundamental driver of market expansion as most products offered in the market are similar, and innovation becomes critical for manufacturers to differentiate their products and reach their target audience by providing something new to them. They are constantly innovating to introduce new colors, forms, and flavors. For instance, in January 2023, Holololly launched holographic lollipops, created using isomalt and designed in the galaxy theme. The offering is an outcome of advanced laser etching technology used by the company.

Furthermore, lollipops are gaining popularity in the sugar confectionery sector due to their appealing designs and range of flavors. They hold a unique place in the market since they have been a treat that crosses all age groups.

Furthermore, cultural and regional preferences significantly impact the market's growth trajectory. Some tastes are unique to specific locations, allowing important players to differentiate their products and reach a larger audience.

Moreover, the market has been dominated by the retail distribution channel. These large retail outlets provide customers with significant convenience and variety by serving as a one-stop shop for all their needs.

Increased Usage in the Pharmaceutical Industry

Sugar is used in the pharmaceutical industry for various purposes, including as a basis for medicated confectionery, granulating agent, sugar coating adjunct, suspending agent, sweetening agent, tablet and capsule diluent, and viscosity-increasing agent. Sugar confections are useful in the pharmaceutical industry since they can be used as over-the-counter medications, lozenges, and health supplements. Due to functional properties, sugar candies, such as lozenges, hold significance in the pharmaceutical business, and their application propels the market's growth. These candies have active ingredients, which include menthol and essential oils, which assist in relieving sore throats and coughs. Certain sugar candies contain beneficial components, including vitamins, prebiotics, and antioxidants, offering customers a tasty option to enhance their overall health and wellness. For instance, in May 2023, Perrigo Company plc launched its latest over-the-counter Nicotine Coated Mint Lozenges to help people reduce withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop smoking. The lozenges are available in two variants of 2mg and 4mg.

Plant-based Sugar Confections Drive Market Growth

Consumer tastes are ever-changing, and a trend towards more sustainable and health-conscious eating options is growing. Sugar confectionery options that are plant-based and healthier are becoming more popular. However, consumers who prefer plant-based foods will not put up with sweets that don't deliver organoleptic properties. To achieve market success, manufacturers are working on striking the ideal balance of sweetness, flavor, and texture. More than 60% of customers in the United Kingdom, 70% of Germans, and 85% of Spaniards are interested in plant-based gummies and believe that plant-based products contain healthier components, according to recent exclusive research data from Cargill. Capitalizing on the trend, in March 2023, the vegan gummy candy brand Sheroes, from confectionary manufacturer Katjes, was introduced. It comes in a variety of colors and have different shapes in the form of female astronauts, firefighters, and scientists. It features motivational sayings such ‘GRL PWR!’. Innovative flavors including peach, lemon, orange, strawberry, and raspberry with white and pink cherry froth are available in Sheroes gummies. These are the first layered foam candies, and the new variation is made without animal gelatin.

Innovation Fuels the Demand for Sugar Confectionery

Product innovation is critical to fostering the growth of the global sugar confectionery market. It is because manufacturers are always improving their products to meet changing consumer wants, lifestyle choices, and nutritional preferences, hence increasing the product's applicability. One of the most significant improvements in the sugar confectionery market has been the introduction of various exotic flavors such as tropical fruits, spicy blends, and floral infusions. For instance, in December 2023, The Hershey Company introduced their latest product, Jolly Rancher Two-Much, a hard candy lollipop. The product features a unique combination of tangy blueberry and sweet strawberry flavors in a single lollipop.

The leading players are experimenting with the texture of sugar confections by introducing filled or layered candies, which improves the flavor and experience of customers. Additionally, packaging innovations, including resealable and eco-friendly designs, enhance convenience and appeal, making products more attractive to on-the-go consumers. Seasonal and limited-edition offerings create a sense of urgency and exclusivity, enticing consumers to try new products. These continuous innovations meet the changing preferences of consumers and encourage the market demand by offering unique experiences and driving repeat purchases.

Europe and North America Hold Significant Market Shares

North America and Europe hold significant market shares in the global sugar confectionery market, primarily driven by rising demand and popularity for sugar confectionery products. The United States holds the top position globally for sugar consumption, with a daily per capita consumption of 126.4 grams of sugar, which is more than 10 times the recommended sugar consumption. Furthermore, Russia, France, and Germany are among the European countries with a big customer base for indulgent snacking, which drives regional demand for sugar confections. Belgium has the highest per capita sugar intake in Europe and one of the highest worldwide (48.3 kg). Other European countries, such as Denmark (40.4 kg), Malta (43.8 kg), and Poland (45.7 kg), have per capita sugar consumptions that exceed 40 kg. Moreover, the European population is becoming more cognizant of its food choices and increasing demand for low-sugar confections in the region.

Future Market Scenario (2024 – 2031F)

Increasing consumer awareness about health issues related to sugar consumption will drive demand for low-sugar or sugar-free confectionery products.

Advanced manufacturing technologies will enable the creation of unique flavors, textures, and multi-sensory experiences.

Products targeting the aging population focus on softer textures and functional benefits, which are expected to become more prevalent. Products fortified with vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and other functional ingredients will gain popularity.

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

The landscape of key players in both established players and innovative newcomers characterize the global sugar confectionery market. Major companies continue to dominate due to their extensive product portfolios, strong brand recognition, and global distribution networks. These companies are focusing on diversification by introducing health-conscious options, expanding into emerging markets, and leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies to create unique products.

Meanwhile, some companies maintain their competitive edge through constant innovation in flavors and textures and strategic acquisitions and partnerships. The rise of niche players emphasizing organic, vegan, and low-sugar alternatives indicates a growing trend towards health and sustainability.

The outlook for these key players involves navigating regulatory challenges, particularly sugar content, and labeling, and adapting to shifting consumer preferences towards healthier and ethically sourced products.

In July 2023, Nestlé S.A. introduced a cost-effective and adaptable patented technique for reducing sugar content that can be used in various product categories and has advantages over sugar reduction. It minimizes the effect on taste and texture while reducing intrinsic sugar by up to 30% via an enzymatic process in substances such as milk, fruit juices, and malt. Then, the substances with less sugar are included into different product formulas. No sweeteners or bulking agents are required to make up for the removed sugar volume.