• The global snack market continues to grow, reaching $693 billion in retail sales in 2024, according to Euromonitor International data.
The expansion is supported by changes in global economic dynamics and the evolution of consumer values, and the outlook for the coming years remains optimistic, despite the challenges generated by inflation, legislation and increasing price sensitivity.
The report World Snacks Market 2025 indicates that between 2025 and 2030, the industry's growth rate will exceed the performance of the last five years (2019–2024). With the effects of the pandemic over, companies in the sector are focusing their efforts on innovation and creating greater perceived value for consumers.
Despite fluctuating tariffs, political uncertainties and rising production costs, the market value grew by 4,2% in 2024, confirming the resilience of this segment.
The world's favorite salty snacks
Savory snacks remain the leading segment, accounting for 35% of global sales, followed by confectionery. The preference for savory snacks remains strong, but there is also an increase in demand for "affordable indulgences" – sweet products that offer short moments of pleasure at reasonable prices. The confectionery thus becomes a haven for budget-conscious consumers who don't want to give up small daily rewards.
In contrast, ice cream saw the steepest decline of all snack categories, while sweet biscuits, bars and fruit snacks maintained a stable performance, thanks to a balance between price and perceived value. These trends confirm consumers’ orientation towards products that combine taste satisfaction with affordability.
Snacks are reinventing themselves
An increasingly visible phenomenon is the expansion of snack brands into the health and beauty area, through innovations that respond to the needs of well-being from an integrated perspective. The boundaries between nutrition and personal care are blurring, and the focus is shifting to a holistic approach to health.
One in three consumers globally plan to increase their health and wellness budget wellness next year, which creates opportunities for snack brands to become more than just food products – true advocates of a healthy lifestyle.
By building trust, functionality, and innovation, these brands can cultivate consumer loyalty and open up new directions for growth.
Rapid societal changes are redefining the very idea of "valuable snack"To remain relevant, companies must be agile and proactive, continuously adapting to the expectations of an increasingly demanding generation and more aware of the impact of its choices.
Article source: Global snack market reaches USD 693 billion in retail sales
Article written by Gabriela Dan, Editor-in-Chief Arta Albă
Read on White Art and: State of Snacking – The trends that will shape the future of snacking over the next decade
