The European confectionery industry faces challenges such as rising raw material costs, consumer demand for healthier products, and global competition. Companies are innovating with low-sugar, natural, and sustainable products
The confectionery industry is one of the driving sectors of the European economy, thanks to its tradition, innovation, and product quality. In recent years, however, the sector has faced several challenges, including rising costs of raw materials, increasing consumer awareness of health and environmental issues, and global competition.
One of the main problems that has arisen concerns the rising costs of raw materials, such as sugar, cocoa, and hazelnuts. This has resulted in increased production costs for confectionery companies, which have tried to compensate by raising the prices of their products.
Furthermore, consumers are becoming increasingly demanding in terms of health and the environment, requiring healthier and more natural products. In response, many companies have developed products with low sugar and fat content, using natural and organic ingredients.
Global competition is another major challenge for the sector, with many confectionery producers from emerging countries seeking to enter the European market by offering lower-priced products compared to local companies. This competition is particularly evident in the chocolate sector, where producers from emerging countries are trying to gain market share.
Despite these difficulties, the sector is trying to innovate and adapt to changing consumer demands. Many companies are developing low-sugar and low-fat products using natural and organic ingredients. In addition, many producers are working to reduce the environmental impact of their production by using biodegradable packaging and reducing carbon emissions.
By Walter Konrad