Candy Trends 2004/05

• Candy remains a popular and delicious treat enjoyed by consumers of all ages. Candy sales were up slightly in 2003 verses the previous year. (IRI data)

• Candy has higher household penetration than other food products. Nearly 99 percent of U.S. households purchase candy during the year. (IRI data)

• Candy is a food of celebration. For the past three years, seasonal confectionery has accounted for about 30 percent of annual candy sales. Expect candy manufacturers to introduce an even wider variety of seasonal candies this year. (IRI data)

• Both retailers and candy manufacturers recognize the importance of candy to our holiday celebrations. Candy sales increase more than 100 percent in the two weeks just before Halloween, Christmas and Easter. (IRI data)

• Diet candy – low-carbohydrate and sugar-free selections – are experiencing strong growth. Sales have increased more than 90 percent over the past 12 months ending April 18, 2005 as consumers seek a broader variety of candy treats to fit their lifestyles. (IRI data)

• The diet segment of the candy category represents about 3 percent of overall candy sales. (IRI data)

• Sales of sugar-free gum are up 11 percent for the 52 week period ending April 18, 2004 while sales of gum containing sugar are down for the same period. (IRI data)

• Portion sizes of candy offer consumers variety. Manufacturers continue to introduce more bite-size candies allowing consumers to eat a little at a time. Several new chocolate bars are made with sections that break off easily so the consumer can eat a piece or two and save the rest or share the treat with others.

• The biggest “candy holiday” is Halloween/Back-to-School, followed by Easter, the winter holidays (Christmas, Hanukah and Kwanza) and Valentine's Day. (NCA data)

This annual summary of trends was prepared for the 2004 ALL CANDY EXPO. The 2005/06 trends summary will be available in June 2005. Click here for the 2003/04 trends summary.