Sugar Confectionery Market Size - Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook, Growth Potential, Competitive Market Share & Forecast, 2025 - 2034

Sugar Confectionery Market Size

The global sugar confectionery market generated notable revenues in 2024 and is expected to grow at a decent CAGR between 2025 and 2034, driven by disposable income, a rising demand for sweet treats, and sugary snacks by popular among all age groups. According to the American Heart Association, adults and teenagers in the U.S. consumed around 17 teaspoons of added sugar daily, two to three times more than the recommended limit for men and women. This accounted for about 60 pounds of added sugar per person each year. New flavors, shapes, and packaging in candy products continue to attract consumers and boost market growth. Frequent celebrations and a shift toward fancier and unique candies drive market expansion.
 

Additionally, easy access through regular and online stores increases demand in rich and developing regions. Sugar candies, which include a variety of candies, chocolates, gums, and hard sweets, remain a favorite treat for many people globally. Changes in consumer tastes and increased candy consumption during celebrations and events are expected to support market growth. Candy used for gifting and special packaging, particularly during festive seasons, gives a significant boost to the sugar confectionery market. As the market expands, manufacturers focus on offering healthier options, like low-sugar or organic candies, to attract health-conscious consumers. Despite this, concerns about the health impacts of high sugar consumption are causing a shift toward low-sugar or sugar-free products. There is also pressure from regulations about sugar content in foods, and many prefer healthier snack alternatives, which could slow down the growth of traditional sugar candies.
 

Sugar Confectionery Market Trends

The sugar confectionery industry is growing quickly as people's tastes change. A significant trend is the demand for new and exciting flavors. Companies use exotic ingredients and unique combinations to attract customers who love trying different things. Nowadays, many people are choosing healthier candies. They look for sugar-free, low-sugar, and organic options because they care about their health. At the same time, traditional and handmade candies are becoming more popular. These candies are loved because they have familiar, comforting flavors and the special touch of being homemade.
 

Currently, many people are opting for healthier candy choices. They prefer sugar-free candy, that has low sugar, or is organic because they care about their well-being. Meanwhile, traditional and handmade candies are also becoming favorites again. These types are appreciated for their familiar and comforting tastes, and because they have the special quality of being homemade. This trend reveals that people want to be healthy but still enjoy the familiar tastes they love. Many folks wish to indulge in sweets without feeling guilty afterward. Therefore, there is a rising interest in candies made from plants, which focus on bringing health benefits. These tasty candies aren't just about sweetness; they're also good for you. Many have added fiber or antioxidants, which help keep the body healthy. This new way of making candy is changing our views. Candy today is about more than just flavor; it offers a personal and meaningful experience.
 

Sugar Confectionery Market Analysis

The hard-boiled sweets segment is expected to hold the largest market share through 2034. People love them for their special taste. Another reason they are favored is that they do not spoil quickly, allowing one to store and enjoy them over time. These candies come in both old favorite flavors and exciting new ones, which keeps them in demand and popular. Made with sugar, corn syrup, and various flavors, they are available in many shapes and sizes. They often have flavors resembling fruits or mint. People love these sweets because their sugary flavor lasts a long time. They are small and easy to carry, and one can enjoy them anywhere. They're perfect for when you're busy or just out and about, giving you a quick and enjoyable treat whenever you need a bit of sweetness. People are getting into candy flavors that remind them of the good old days. At the same time, candies that are sugar-free or organic are also gaining popularity. These trends help hard-boiled sweets stay at the top in the candy market.
 

The store-based segment in the sugar confectionery market held sizeable revenues in 2024 as lots of people enjoy buying sugary candy by going to actual stores. About 80% of candy sales happen in these places. You can find many kinds of candy at supermarkets, big discount stores called hypermarkets, small local shops, and stores just for candy. These places are well-liked because they offer a wide variety of candy choices. People enjoy buying sweets from these stores because it's simple and convenient. Shoppers can easily pick what they want and explore many options. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are especially favored by candy lovers. In big stores, there are many types of candy available, often in large packs that are easy on the wallet.
 

These confectioneries are placed in noticeable areas while you shop. With so many choices, like chocolate bars, gummy bears, and hard candies, everyone can find something they enjoy. The bright and eye-catching displays make the shopping experience more enjoyable. Additionally, special deals such as discounts or buy-one-get-one-free offers can make you want to buy more candy than you had planned. These eye-catching setups can result in buying without thinking, which boosts the store's sales. In these stores, you can check out the candies up close, feel them, and even try a sample before buying. This is a nice perk compared to shopping online, where you don't get that kind of experience. Large retail chains are growing by setting up new stores in parts of the world that are developing, like Asia-Pacific and Latin America.
 

North America sugar confectionery market held the largest share in 2024. People in this region enjoy buying sweets, which helps the market grow. They are excited to taste new and different sugar candy flavors, which keeps the market lively and innovative. Everyone, from kids to adults, enjoys these sugary treats. The constant demand for such candies keeps North America a key player in the global sugar candy scene. The sugar candy market in North America thrives due to many popular local companies and international brands.
 

Companies produce many types of candies to cater to different tastes. Nowadays, health-conscious individuals prefer candies that are sugar-free, low in calories, or organic. During holidays like Halloween, Christmas, and Easter, candy consumption rises, which boosts sales for candy businesses. These festive seasons are important for candy companies. In North America, there's a growing interest in premium, high-quality candies. Consumers are spending more on candies that have unique flavors or organic ingredients. Many younger people like special treats. They care about what is in the candies they eat and where these candies are made.
 

North America Sugar Confectionery Market Share

The global sugar confectionery industry includes players such as:

1. Lotte Confectionery
2. Perfetti Van Melle
3. Nestle S.A
4. Ferrero SpA
5. Specialty Food Association, Inc.
6. HARIBO of America, Inc.
7. Lindt & Sprüngli AG
8. Jelly Belly Candy Company
9. The Hershey Company (Hershey Trust Company)
10. The Kraft Heinz Company
     

These leading players focus on initiatives to solidify their market positions. Key strategies include product diversification, expanding distribution channels, and launching innovative, healthier alternatives to meet changing consumer preferences. Companies are also heavily investing in marketing campaigns, partnerships, and sustainability initiatives to enhance brand loyalty and reach broader customer bases, while also leveraging advanced manufacturing technologies to improve production efficiency and meet global demand.
 

Sugar Confectionery Industry News

• In October 2024, NutraEx Food, Inc., launched Bi-Sugar. Bi-Sugar was designed for use in various applications, including beverages, bakery products, confectionery, and dairy, and it also provided caramel notes.
   
• In September 2024, Perfetti Van Melle, a key player in travel retail confectionery, showcased its focus on new flavors during the TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes. The company launched the Chupa Chups Sour Pouch Bag, featuring Sour Strawberry, Sour Lemon, and Sour Apple, expanding its snacking and sharing range.