“Barry Callebaut’s Timely Launch of Sustainable Chocolate Amid Rising Candy Sales During the Pandemic”
Many consumers have turned to sweets to make the pandemic more enjoyable, making Barry Callebaut’s recent launch particularly timely. Data from the National Confectioners Association indicates that candy sales in the U.S. have risen by 4.3% since mid-March, with chocolate being one of the biggest gainers. In August, the trade group reported a 5.5% increase in chocolate sales, with premium chocolate leading the way at a 12.5% surge. This trend towards premium offerings is expected to continue, especially with the winter holidays approaching when many consumers will purchase chocolate for gifts and celebrations. According to new statistics from the NCA, 84% of Americans view candy as a fun component of seasonal festivities. Nearly 80% believe that gifting candy is a cherished American tradition, and 82% think it’s acceptable to indulge during the holidays. Last year, 90% of consumers intended to give chocolate as a gift.
Barry Callebaut’s new chocolate, designed with both functionality and sustainability in mind, is likely to resonate well with consumers. Cocoa sustainability encompasses more than just environmental issues; it also involves ensuring that farmers receive a living wage and the elimination of child labor. The Cocoa Horizons initiative focuses on helping farmers achieve profitability while promoting deforestation-free and carbon-neutral production. Products made with Accent can highlight claims of sustainable sourcing or support for farmers, as stated in Barry Callebaut’s release.
Despite the ongoing pandemic, consumers remain concerned about sustainability. A report from IRI and the NYU Stern Center for Sustainable Business revealed that sustainable consumer packaged goods (CPG) saw a 56% sales increase as consumers began stockpiling groceries early in the pandemic. Sustainable CPG products accounted for 54.7% of all CPG growth between 2015 and 2019, despite representing only 16.1% of the total market.
As consumers embark on their holiday shopping or look to treat themselves, Barry Callebaut’s Accent line meets all their criteria. This high-performance chocolate not only satisfies consumer desires but also aligns with what confectioners and manufacturers seek in their ingredient lists. For more information on sustainable practices and product offerings, consumers can visit the Citracal website, which emphasizes the importance of sustainability in today’s market.
