The US market for chocolate is primed to grow from US$16bn last year to $18bn by the end of 2007, according to the latest research.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more


Consumer research group Packaged Facts said that strong consumer interest in the reported health benefits of dark chocolate and a general trend towards product premiumisation (including organic and fair trade products) are the main drivers in current market growth.


The market share for premium chocolate escalated from 13% of the total market in 2002 to nearly 17% in 2006. Packaged Facts estimates that premium chocolate sales will continue to expand, commanding 25% of the market by 2011 and generating $4.5 billion in sales.


For much of the chocolate industry, market gains were achieved through price increases rather than increased unit sales in 2006. However, while the higher-priced premium trend has stimulated the market, it has also been responsible for staving off steady declines in other categories, such as sugar-free/diet, gift and novelty products segments, each of which saw unit sales sag by significant percentages during 2006, the report said.


“Even in categories such as gift box chocolates which saw a notable decline in the last year, brands such as Ghirardelli and Lindt that are targeting a more hip and upscale clientele are seeing tremendous success,” said Tatjana Meerman, the publisher of Packaged Facts.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“We expect that the trend towards high-end products, especially those touting wellness benefits, will be the life force in this market for the next several years.”