Issue #16: September Embers
Hey y'all, sorry for my absence, I got pretty sick last week and had a bad cold or something, but I lost my weekend and most of this week's days. We are back with some of the good stuff.
October! Spooky season is within reach, so lots of pumpkin spice beverages and horror movies to prepare for Halloween. Lot of sports like the MLB playoffs, we are heading deep into the NFL season, the NBA is back, and some Champions League action!
More importantly, we are getting some interesting news to end September in a cool fashion with a lot of innovation, insights, and news of the industry to come in this issue!
Sweet Spotlights ??
Akward social confectionery
Confections are facing a transformation driven by surprising social trends. There is a need to dwell on how cultural shifts and societal changes are influencing consumer habits and forcing the candy industry to adapt.
For example, an unexpected factor impacting the candy market is the decline in wedding celebrations, particularly in China. Traditionally, weddings are prime occasions for gifting confectionery. With fewer weddings, the demand for these celebratory candies has fallen, prompting manufacturers to rethink their marketing strategies and explore alternative gifting opportunities.
Consumers are increasingly health-conscious, demanding candy options that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. Sugar reduction has become a major focus, with manufacturers exploring alternative sweeteners and sugar-free options. Haribo, for instance, is looking towards sour flavors and variety packs to attract younger consumers seeking a less sugary candy experience.
While sugar reduction is a trend, there's also a growing interest in premium ingredients. Pistachios are emerging as a popular choice, offering a healthy and unique flavor profile. This trend caters to consumers willing to pay more for a perceived upgrade in quality and taste.
The rise of dietary restrictions like veganism and gluten-free diets are also forcing candy manufacturers to diversify their offerings. Plant-based candies are gaining traction, with companies exploring alternative ingredients like nut-based butter and fruits to create delicious and inclusive candy options.
In terms of attractiveness, social media has become a powerful marketing tool for the candy industry. Influencers can promote new products and flavors, reaching a wider audience and generating excitement for innovative offerings. This trend highlights the need for dynamic marketing strategies that cater to the digital age.
The candy market is in a state of flux, shaped by evolving social factors and changing consumer preferences. To thrive in this environment, candy companies must be adaptable and innovative. Focusing on healthier options, premium ingredients, ethical sourcing, and inclusive product lines are key strategies for success.
Best experience ever
Confectionery brands are now offering custom experiences that extend beyond just flavor. This includes personalized packaging, designs, and even nutritional content, making each product unique for the consumer. Advanced technologies like generative AI and augmented reality (AR) are being utilized to create more engaging and immersive experiences for consumers. For instance, Cadbury’s “My Cadbury Era” campaign employs AI to transform consumers’ images into classic Cadbury ads, adding a nostalgic and personalized touch.
Brands such as Starburst and Snickers are leveraging AI to develop interactive marketing campaigns. Starburst’s “Different Every Time” campaign highlights the numerous ways to enjoy their product, emphasizing variety and personalization. Meanwhile, Snickers’ “The Special One” campaign features an AI clone of José Mourinho, creating a unique and engaging consumer experience. Additionally, AR and QR codes are used to provide consumers with detailed information about products, including ingredients, sourcing, and production methods. This technology also enables interactive games and exclusive content, enhancing consumer engagement and satisfaction.
The confectionery market is anticipated to grow significantly, with personalization playing a crucial role in this expansion. The sector is projected to scale by 5.4% by 2029, driven by these innovative personalization strategies. These trends underscore how the confectionery industry is evolving to meet changing consumer expectations, leveraging technology to create unique, personalized experiences that resonate with modern consumers.
The transformative impact of personalization in the confectionery industry is important to not as it is showcasing how brands are adapting to new consumer demands and technological advancements to drive growth and engagement. If you need more detailed information or have any other questions, feel free to ask!
Cocoa Culture ??
Cocoa Price as of 07/10/2024
Cocoa futures were traded around $7,000 per tonne this week, reaching their lowest since mid-March. Moreover, favorable weather in top growers Ivory Coast and Ghana is improving the main crop outlook and helping to keep a lid on cocoa prices after a strong rally earlier this year. Farmers said that most of Ivory Coast's main cocoa regions received below-average rainfall last week, but it was sufficient to boost the development of the next October-to-march main crop.
The spookiest chocolate
As Halloween approaches, Instacart’s annual report reveals that traditional favorites like Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, M&M’s (both peanut and regular), and Hershey’s milk chocolate bars continue to dominate the list of top candies for trick-or-treaters. Fruity candies also make a strong showing, with Tootsie Pops, Twizzlers, and Sour Patch Kids ranking among the top ten favorites. Interestingly, candy corn, a treat that often divides opinions, also secured a spot in the top ten, indicating that nostalgia still plays a significant role in consumer choices.
The report highlights regional differences in candy preferences across the United States. While Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and M&M’s are universally popular, some states exhibit unique tastes. For example, California residents prefer Red Vines, while Hawaii favors Ferrero Rocher. Washington, DC, breaks from tradition with Snickers taking the top spot. The data also shows that candy buying begins in mid-September and peaks dramatically in the last days of October, with Halloween itself being the most popular day for candy sales. Consumers tend to delay Halloween-related purchases, including decorations and costumes, until just a few days before the holiday.
Utah leads the country in candy purchases for the third consecutive year, followed by Idaho, Montana, and Alaska. On the other end of the spectrum, Hawaii, Florida, and Delaware buy the least candy. The report also provides interesting insights into specific state preferences. For instance, Florida’s obsession with Milky Way Dark is 248 percent over the national average, while Missouri shows a strong preference for Tootsie Rolls, with the candy appearing in carts 166 percent more often than the national average. New York favors Ferrero Rocher, purchasing the chocolates 141 percent more often than the national average, and Maine’s love for candy corn is evident with purchases 138 percent higher than the national average. North Carolina and Georgia are big on Nerds, with purchases 120 percent and 111 percent higher than the national average, respectively.
74 percent of Americans who plan to go trick-or-treating will do so in their own neighborhood, while more than half (55 percent) say they will venture to other neighborhoods within or outside their city or town. These trends provide a comprehensive overview of how Halloween candy preferences and purchasing behaviors vary across the country, highlighting the enduring popularity of chocolate and the influence of regional tastes on candy choices.
From Colombia with love
The Food Institute dives into the world of premium Colombian chocolate, highlighting the dedication and artistry behind its creation with a very interesting article in this Latino Heritage Month. Nataly Nicholls, a successful chocolatier and entrepreneur, takes center stage as she shares her passion for Colombian cocoa and her commitment to crafting exquisite chocolates.
Colombia boasts a unique advantage in the chocolate world of cocoa beans. These exceptional beans are renowned for their delicate and complex flavor profiles, setting them apart from ordinary cocoa. Notably, the article states that a staggering 90% of Colombia's cocoa falls under the prestigious "Fino de Aroma" classification.
The creation of premium Colombian chocolate is a meticulous and labor-intensive process. Every step, from sourcing the finest beans to crafting the final product, is approached with meticulous attention to detail.
Nataly Nicholls emerges as a key figure in the Colombian premium chocolate scene. Drawing inspiration from her mother's artistic influence and the exceptional Colombian cocoa, she crafts chocolates that are as captivating visually as they are delicious. This aesthetic focus elevates the chocolate experience, making it a true indulgence for the senses.
Beyond Flavor: The Importance of Appearance
The article emphasizes the importance of visual appeal in Nataly's creations. Her chocolates are not just about the taste; they are presented as works of art. This approach suggests a dedication to a complete sensory experience, one that goes beyond the initial bite and delights the eyes as well.
领英推荐
A Focus on Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
While the article doesn't explicitly mention sustainability or ethical sourcing, it can be inferred from the overall focus on premium quality. Utilizing high-quality, locally sourced "Fino de Aroma" cocoa likely involves responsible sourcing practices that benefit Colombian farmers and contribute to the sustainability of the cocoa industry in the region.
A Look Ahead: The Future of Colombian Premium Chocolate
The article concludes with a sense of optimism for the future of Colombian premium chocolate. The dedication of passionate chocolatiers like Nataly Nicholls, combined with the exceptional quality of Colombian cocoa, positions this niche market for continued growth and recognition.
Limitations of the Article
It's important to acknowledge that the article provides a glimpse rather than an in-depth exploration of Colombian premium chocolate. While it effectively highlights the dedication and artistry involved, specifics about the chocolate-making process, the challenges faced by producers, or the global market landscape are not addressed.
Conclusion: A Sweet Success Story
The Food Institute's article offers a tantalizing introduction to the world of Colombian premium chocolate. The focus on Nataly Nicholls and her artistry sheds light on the dedication and passion that goes into crafting these exceptional treats. The article leaves readers with a sense of appreciation for the unique qualities of Colombian cocoa and the exciting future of this niche market.
Flavor Fusion ??
Take a Vanilla break
Kit Kat is finally bringing a long-awaited permanent flavor to their confection line of snacks, with Vanilla entering the main scene. The company performed a study across its market and determined that there was an 89% approval for a vanilla-flavored Kit-Kat. Hence, a major decision to bring the product to life was made.
This is a common theme that we have seen over the last couple of years, with brands feeling the need to reinvent themselves in terms of innovation to offer brand-new experiences to their consumers. It is true that Kit-Kat has released several limited edition flavors, but they also feel the need to expand their permanent line of products.
Hold up, new uncrustables just dropped
Yes, stop what you are doing. Uncrustable just released a new flavor after 10 years in the market. The company has been on an innovation roll, especially after acquiring Hostess and integrating it into their portfolio.
It has accelerated their innovation appetite as they are moving deep within each of their product lines, and finally, we are seeing a breakthrough into one of their most popular brands and perhaps one of the last most unique products in the market, their Uncrustable line.
The flavor goes in hand with the theme, with the new addition being raspberry flavor to allude to the idea of integrating raspberry jam into the mix along with the usual peanut butter flavor.
The brand made approximately $800 million in the 2024 fiscal year and it is underway to break that number in 2025 with their investments in distribution channels and manufacturing plants across the country.
Roping up
We mentioned across several issues that Hershey's brand Jolly Rancher is starting to segment its ways into different product lines like gummies thanks to the versatility of those categories and the expected return on innovation by reinventing the brand over time.
It hasn't taken long for yet another innovation on the Jolly Rancher line. The brand has introduced its new product. The candy is a mix of 2 layers with an outside composed of sweet, chewy candy, whereas the inner layer is a creamy candy-based filling. The product will come in 2 distinct flavors, Blue Raspberry/Cherry and Watermelon/Green Apple.
We can expect a lot more from this brand line and upcoming Jolly Rancher features over 2025 as it is expected to be one of the fastest growing brands for Hershey's in the candy sector.
Sugar Rush (Facts and Stories about your favorite snacks and candies)??
CRUNCH!!!
The Crunch Bar holds a special place in my heart. It reminds me of all the times I used to go to the movies, as I would always get myself some popcorn and Crunch Bar and combine them to make a delicious, sweet, and salty experience. It also holds a special place in confectionary history as it innovated with a novelty inclusion by using crispy rice. This has inspired hundreds of spinoffs across several countries over the years and gave way to the use of bold inclusions.
The Crunch chocolate bar, with its iconic crispy rice texture and rich milk chocolate coating, has been a beloved treat for generations. Its history is intertwined with the evolution of the confectionery industry and the changing tastes of consumers.
The origins of the Crunch Bar can be traced back to the early 20th century, when chocolate manufacturers were experimenting with new textures and flavors. The addition of crispy rice to chocolate was a groundbreaking innovation that offered a unique and satisfying taste experience.
In 1938, Peter Paul Cadbury, a British chocolate company, introduced a product called "Rice Crisp" which featured a milk chocolate bar with rice crispies. This early iteration of the Crunch Bar paved the way for the development of the iconic treat we know today.
The Crunch Bar gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century. In 1948, Peter Paul Cadbury merged with George Williamson, a prominent American confectionery company, forming Peter Paul, Inc. This merger helped to expand the distribution of Crunch bars across the United States, making them more accessible to consumers.
Over the years, Crunch bars have undergone various changes and adaptations. Different flavors and variations have been introduced, such as peanut butter Crunch, caramel Crunch, and even white chocolate Crunch. These innovations have helped to keep the brand fresh and appealing to a wide range of consumers.
Despite the introduction of newer flavors and variations, the classic milk chocolate Crunch bar remains a popular choice for many. Its combination of crunchy rice and creamy chocolate has proven to be a timeless formula that continues to satisfy consumers.
In recent years, Crunch bars have also been incorporated into other confectionery products, such as ice cream, cookies, and cakes. This cross-promotion has helped to maintain the brand's relevance and introduce it to new audiences.
Today, Crunch bars are enjoyed by people of all ages and are considered a classic American candy. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their unique flavor profile, satisfying texture, and rich history. As the confectionery industry continues to evolve, Crunch bars are likely to remain a beloved and iconic treat for many years to come.
That's it for this edition! Sorry for the delay :( but I had to catch up with much work after getting sick. Hopefully, I will be scheduled for the next one, but I have a lot to catch up on as well. But things are looking up, we caught up with some very exciting stuff, and I already have my eye on some more exciting news that has developed in the last weeks. I have a lot of news firepower in my funnel to deliver and dissect for you guys!