Demand for Chocolate Spikes as Consumers “Find Joy” in Sweets During the COVID-19 Pandemic

As the COVID-19 pandemic persists, the demand for chocolate has exceeded demand observed in the candy market from March 15, 2020, to August 9, 2020. This was shown in a report from the National Confectioners Association.

The report, with the title “Consumers Find Joy in Chocolate and Candy During COVID-19,” discussed sales of chocolate and candy. It says the sales “have increased during the pandemic as people across the country look for ways to add a little bit of joy to what has been a very serious and uncertain time.”

Data from NCA says that consumers appreciate chocolate and candy during these times. The report says “their uncanny ability to boost moods and lighten perspectives” has caused it.

In those five months, the premium chocolate market had a sales spike of 12.5%. Non-premium chocolate had a sales increase of 5.5%. The candy market, which also includes chocolate products, had an increase of 3.8%.

“The grocery channel has become a key driver for chocolate and candy sales growth,” the report says. With this, “consumer behaviors continue to evolve during the pandemic and more people shop at grocery stores.”

“In the grocery channel alone, chocolate and candy sales are up 16.6% with chocolate (+17.9%), premium chocolate (+21.4%) and non-chocolate (+13.5%) all performing very well,” the report reads.

“Chocolate might not be an essential item, but it is a source of indulgence and comfort that consumers look for in times of uncertainty,” said the CBI – Centre for the Promotion of Imports from developing countries, in April.

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