
The U.S. confectionery market was valued at USD 36.82 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2025 to 2032. Key factors driving this growth include the increasing use of chocolates and candies as gifts, the rising trend of consuming sweets at home, and consumers’ eagerness to try new confectionery varieties. According to the USDA, over 68% of candies in the U.S. are consumed at home, highlighting the strong domestic demand for these products.
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U.S. as the Leading Importer of Confectionery
The U.S. is the largest global importer of confectionery, with imports reaching 1500KT in 2021. Chocolate confectionery accounted for nearly half of total confectionery sales in 2022. Despite evolving consumer health trends, the confectionery industry remained resilient for years. However, growing awareness about health and obesity concerns has led to increased demand for low-calorie and sugar-free confectionery options.
Expanding Variety and Innovative Flavors
Consumers’ willingness to explore new flavors drives demand for a diverse range of confectionery products. Candy manufacturers are focusing on making their products more attractive, particularly to children, through innovative flavors and packaging. To stay competitive, companies are heavily investing in research and development to introduce unique product designs and formulations.
Mergers and Acquisitions Strengthening Market Growth
Strategic acquisitions by major confectionery companies are playing a crucial role in expanding product portfolios and market reach. Industry leaders like The Hershey Company, Mondelez International, Inc., and Ferrero SPA are actively acquiring emerging brands to diversify offerings and meet evolving consumer preferences, particularly in the premium and healthier confectionery segments. These acquisitions also help companies achieve economies of scale, optimizing production and distribution while boosting market share.
For instance, in November 2024, The Hershey Company acquired Sour Strips (Actual Candy LLC), a brand known for its intensely sour flavors and strong presence on social media. This move enables Hershey to expand beyond chocolate and tap into the growing demand for sour candies, further strengthening its market presence.
Rising Demand for Healthier Confectionery
Consumers are increasingly seeking healthier snack alternatives, prompting confectionery companies to introduce products that emphasize convenience, taste, and wellness. Organic chocolate is gaining popularity as it avoids artificial additives that could negatively impact health. Additionally, sugar-free, gluten-free, and natural ingredient-based chocolates are in high demand. Many brands are innovating with portion-controlled packaging, allowing consumers to enjoy small servings while preserving the rest for later.
In response to this trend, Oterra, a leader in natural food colorings, expanded its operations in the U.S. in December 2024 by establishing an innovation and production hub in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin. This facility enhances the development of naturally colored confectionery products, aligning with the growing consumer preference for healthier ingredients.
Government Support for the Confectionery Industry
The National Confectioners Association (NCA) plays a vital role in advocating for the U.S. confectionery industry. The organization promotes chocolates, gums, candies, and mints, ensuring public awareness of their role in a balanced lifestyle while supporting manufacturers in navigating industry regulations and trends.
COVID-19’s Impact on the Confectionery Market
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted the U.S. confectionery industry, particularly in 2020, due to lockdowns and supply chain challenges. Restrictions impacted raw material availability, logistics, and workforce operations, leading to reduced sales as fewer gifts and treats were purchased. However, the market rebounded as manufacturing facilities resumed operations and supply chains stabilized post-lockdown.
Effects of the Russia-Ukraine War on the Market
The Russia-Ukraine conflict had a global impact on the confectionery market, particularly affecting supply chains in Eastern Europe, the U.S., and Asia. Leading confectionery manufacturers such as Mars, Mondelez, and Nestlé temporarily halted production, contributing to market disruptions.
Market Outlook (2025–2032)
- Expansion of new flavors and product innovations to attract consumers.
- Increased investments in health-conscious confectionery options, including sugar-free and organic products.
- Strategic acquisitions by major players to strengthen market positioning and diversify product offerings.
Market Insights and Forecast
The “United States Confectionery Market Overview, 2018-2032F” by Markets and Data provides a detailed analysis of market size, share, trends, challenges, and future opportunities. The report also profiles key industry players, outlining their competitive strategies, business models, and market positioning.
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