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Report
en_GB
Sugar and gum confectionery are transforming fast, driven by bold innovation, rising eco‑expectations and the evolving needs of health‑focused and ageing consumers. Regina Maiseviciute-Haydon, Associate Principal, Mintel Food & Drink…
Global
Sugar and Gum Confectionery
simple
The Future of Sugar and Gum Confectionery 2026
"Sugar and gum confectionery are transforming fast, driven by bold innovation, rising eco‑expectations and the evolving needs of health‑focused and ageing consumers."
Regina Maiseviciute-Haydon, Associate Principal, Mintel Food & Drink
Discover the future trends in the global sugar and gum confectionery market with Mintel’s Future Of report. The report identifies the key consumer and industry trends that will impact the global confectionery market over the next five years.
The most important upcoming trends in the sugar confectionery market are analysed and succinctly presented alongside relevant insights from Mintel’s consumer data. So you can understand how consumer demands will change and identify future innovation and growth opportunities.
This report also presents Mintel’s analysts’ pick of the most innovative and inspirational launches in confectionery. Understanding the future of the industry has never been so easy.
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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Where we are now
In the next two years
In five years and beyond
IN THE NEXT TWO YEARS
Mintel’s perspective
The rise of premium confectionery
Premium innovations can elevate sugar confectionery
Consumer attitudes towards premium product positioning in categories adjacent to sugar confectionery
Opportunities exist to explore various premium attributes in sugar confectionery
Inspiration from Japan: focus on health, provenance and multi-sensory engagement
Flavour and functional innovations in chewing gum
Flavour exploration as a growth driver in the gum category
Graph 1: new gum launches by flavour, 2021-26
Opportunities for bold flavours, textures and experiences in gum
Meeting wellness expectations in everyday gum
Gum gets a healthy twist: the rise of functional benefits
Consumer needs for functional gum: how to help brands drive strategic growth
Consumer needs for functional gum: functional chewing gum prototypes
IN FIVE YEARS AND BEYOND
Mintel’s perspective
Opportunities for the gum industry to align with eco-driven consumers
Reinventing gum for sustainability
Age-appropriate sugar and gum confectionery
Seniors prioritise health, seeking tailored food and drink products
The power of gentle textures
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Key takeaways
What is a 'Future of' Report?
Have you ever wondered how to get a clear view of what’s next for your industry? Forget the crystal ball, what you need is a Mintel ‘Future of’ reports. The reports offer a forward-looking perspective, helping you identify upcoming opportunities and navigate the trends that will shape your business for the next five years and beyond.
How Mintel Builds a Picture of the Future
Creating a ‘Future of’ report is a comprehensive process that combines deep data analysis with expert human insight. Here’s a look at the core components that make these reports so valuable.
Expert Insights from Category Analysts
Our dedicated category analysts are at the heart of these reports. They bring years of industry experience and a deep understanding of global markets. They interpret complex data, connect the dots, and provide you with expert recommendations on what to expect in the next two years, five years, and even further into the future. They provide the strategic thinking you need to stay ahead.
Powered by Robust Data
Our analysis is grounded in solid data. A key source is Mintel’s Global New Products Database (GNPD), a powerful resource that tracks product innovation and launches around the world. By analysing this wealth of information, we can spot emerging patterns and shifts in the market. This data, combined with our knowledge of consumer behavior, allows us to anticipate what consumers will want next.
Designed for Forward-Thinking Strategy
Our ‘Future of’ reports are designed to help you look ahead with confidence. By focusing on trend forecasting and identifying future opportunities, these reports provide the insights you need to innovate and plan effectively. They are crafted specifically to help you anticipate market shifts and make proactive decisions, ensuring you and your business are prepared for what’s to come.
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