"Higher prices have boosted sales of sweets and gum. Limited-edition flavours, fortified reduced-sugar sweets, and sweets-inspired gum flavours offer opportunities."
Richard Caines - Principal Analyst, UK Food & Drink Research
The UK Sugar and Gum Confectionery Market has seen moderate growth, primarily driven by price increases rather than volume.
From 2020 to 2024, inflation significantly boosted value sales in the Sugar and Gum Confectionery Market, with a rise in average prices. In 2025, the market is expected to grow by 5%, with volume increasing by just 2%. Long-term projections indicate more than 15% growth in the foreseeable future, reaching around £3bn, fuelled by higher prices and population growth in the 15-34 age group. However, health concerns and a declining child population may limit volume growth, while upcoming HFSS advertising restrictions in 2026 could impact product visibility in the Sugar Confectionery Market as well as the Gum Confectionery Market.
Consumer trends in the UK Sugar and Gum Confectionery Market show a growing interest in reduced-sugar and fortified sweets, with 66% of consumers preferring reduced-sugar products enhanced with vitamins and minerals. Flavour innovation in the Sugar and Gum Confectionery Market, particularly limited-edition and international flavours, remains popular, with 25% of consumers keen to try new sweets with unique flavours. Health concerns, especially around dental health and calorie content, are significant barriers, with many consumers opting for sugar-free gum as a healthier alternative. Younger age groups, especially 16-34-year-olds, are the core consumers, but older adults also maintain a strong presence, particularly in sweet consumption. Additionally, impulse buying remains high, with many consumers making spontaneous sweet purchases while grocery shopping.
Purchasing the UK Sugar and Gum Confectionery Market Report 2025 reveals a shift towards healthier, innovative products, focusing on reduced-sugar and fortified options. Gen Z is driving demand for functional, eco-friendly sweets with unique flavours in the Confectionery Market. Brands are responding with sustainability, innovation, and a focus on dental health to meet evolving consumer preferences for indulgence with wellness.
The UK Sugar and Gum Confectionery Market Report 2025 provides valuable insights into the latest market trends, consumer preferences, and growth opportunities. It covers key areas such as consumer demand for reduced-sugar and fortified products, the rise of unique flavours and limited-edition items, and the growing focus on sustainability and dental health. The research surveys consumer behaviour, product innovation, market dynamics, and brand performance Sugar and Gum Confectionery Market. This report will benefit manufacturers, retailers, marketers, and investors looking to understand the evolving market, identify emerging trends, and make informed decisions to drive growth and innovation in the confectionery market.
| Report Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Published Date | June 2025 |
| Data Range | 2019-2030 |
| Measurement Metrics | Revenue in £ |
| Country Focus | United Kingdom |
| Consumer Data | 1,732 internet users aged 16+, April 2025 |
| Number of Pages | 95 |
| Market Segmentation | Sugar and Gum Confectionery, Fruit Sweets, Mints, Gum, Jelly-Style Sweets, Chews, and Reduced-Sugar/Fortified Sweets. |
| Leading Companies | Haribo, Maynards Bassetts (Mondelēz), Swizzels (Swizzels Matlow), Rowntree’s (Nestlé), Skittles (Mars Wrigley), Maoam (Haribo Dunhills), Trebor (Mondelēz), Sour Patch Kids (Mondelēz), Mentos (Perfetti Van Melle) |
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