According to “2019 Trends and Advances in Food Packaging and Processing,” a report by PMMI Business Intelligence, candy and confectionery holds a 5.1% share of the nine food categories, with the number of establishments decreasing to 1,942 between 2014 to 2017 (a CAGR of -0.2%), though the number of employees increased to 83,927 in the same period, at a CAGR of 7.5%.
Candy/confectionery product packaging trends include a growing demand for new, unique flavors and sensations, and smaller sized packaging and zip closures. There is a demand for clear paneled packaging machinery, and more use of claims such as natural, sustainable and free trade.
Of a market that has shown declining growth, one Packaging Engineer at a confectionery company said, “Keeping profitable as ingredient costs increase is our drive in the year ahead.”
Candy and Confectionery Product Processing Trends
• Premium chocolate with fruits or nuts saw double-digit sales growing in recent years – consumers perceive it as healthier.
