UK is ‘top of the chocs’ for global Easter confectionery innovation, says latest research

Chocolate product launches have increased by a total of 19% in the past year, paving the way for a strong array of sales this Easter for classic bunny ranges, candy chicks and seasonal novelties, as the UK leading the way in innovation, according to new research from Mintel, writes Neill Barston.

The research group’s Global New Products Database pointed to a positive set of results for the sector, despite wider supply chain challenges that have left many manufacturers facing higher costs as inflation continues to hit key ingredients for the sector.

However, as MIntel noted, while there has been an explosion in Easter chocolate innovation, the same is not true for chocolate innovation as a whole; it’s remained virtually unchanged increasing just 1% over the last year. Meanwhile, innovation for seasonal chocolate as a whole increased 5% over the same period. Overall, Easter innovation accounts for a sweet 41% of all seasonal chocolate launches.

When it comes to regional launch activity, the UK is officially top of the chocs leading the way in Easter innovation globally. Over the last year, the UK was responsible for an impressive one in eight (16%) Easter chocolate launches, leaving British chocolate lovers spoilt for choice. In fact, Easter innovation has come on leaps and bounds in the UK, as the number of Easter-specific launches has grown almost 40% over the past two years.

Across the globe, the top five Easter chocolate innovators are the UK (16%), France (9%), Germany (8%), Brazil (8%) and the US (6%), collectively responsible for almost half of global chocolate innovation.

Marcia Mogelonsky, Director of Insight, Mintel Food and Drink, said: “Following several subdued years of Easter celebrations, chocolate lovers are set to enjoy an impressive array of chocolate eggs and novelties this Easter. As the world becomes more relaxed about social gatherings, celebrations will be more plentiful, sparking improved revenue for seasonal chocolates, especially those linked with an interactive component, like Easter egg hunts.

“Multiculturalism is set to grow opportunities for seasonal confectionery. Beyond the egg, there is room to broaden the range of seasonal confectionery. Increased travel, immigration and the changing dynamics of migration across the globe will expose consumers to a range of new cultures and holidays. For example, seasonal confectionery has room to grow around holidays like Eid and Diwali as consumers embrace multiple nationalities and traditions. Perhaps the earliest example of a holiday with confectionery traditions that have spread successfully is Halloween. Originally a Celtic harvest festival, it is now celebrated around the world.”

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