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Chocolate today: navigating market shifts between cocoa prices and new consumer needs
18 July 2025
Chocolate remains a staple of the packaged goods market — but it’s evolving.
From impulse to indulgence, from function to pleasure: chocolate plays a role in many consumption moments and appeals to increasingly diverse audiences. In recent years, the market has become more polarised, with growth in both premium offerings and functional products — reflecting more mindful purchasing choices focused on quality, wellbeing and increasingly, sustainability.
According to NielsenIQ, the chocolate market in Italy reached a total turnover of €1.3 billion, up by +4.1% from the previous year. This growth in value, however, contrasts with a -10.7% drop in volumes. A dynamic we see across fast-moving consumer goods: people are buying fewer units, but spending more on each.
This divergence reflects a significant shift in purchasing behaviour. On the one hand, inflationary pressure across the supply chain — particularly the record rise in cocoa prices between 2024 and early 2025 — has pushed retail prices upwards. On the other, consumers are reacting selectively, reducing quantities but opting for higher-quality products.
The premium segment is gaining ground. More Italians are choosing artisanal chocolates, single-origin dark chocolate, sugar-free varieties, or products enriched with functional ingredients. This trend is also evident internationally, where “high-end” chocolate is proving more resilient than mainstream alternatives.
Chocolate bars and tablets remain the key value drivers, accounting for 55.6% of market value and 65.7% of volume. Within subcategories, dark chocolate tablets stand out as the only ones recording positive volume growth, up +0.7%.
Among emerging trends, the rise of “free from” products is clear — sugar-free, lactose-free and plant-based variants are addressing specific but fast-growing needs, contributing to the reshaping of the entire category.
The value of a diverse and complete chocolate range
Atlante offers a broad and varied assortment of chocolate bars, designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s market.
Yummy Bars
A line developed for younger consumers and the snacking sector, where flavour and variety are key. Yummy bars are available in six versions, combining classic flavours with playful innovations: Dark, Milk and White for traditional tastes, Peanut Caramel Wafer, Crispy and Coconut for those seeking a more indulgent experience.
With compact formats, colourful packaging and recipes crafted for on-the-go consumption, Yummy is ideal for impulse channels, promotions and cross-merchandising. A dynamic solution that aligns with new shopping behaviours and performs well in high-rotation environments, especially in supermarkets and convenience stores.
Dubai Chocolate
A premium range inspired by global sweet snacking trends, with a focus on taste, aesthetics and variety.
Dubai Chocolate is crafted for those seeking a rich, intense sensory experience — combining refined recipes, carefully selected ingredients and elegant packaging.
The assortment includes classic bars as well as original formats like pralines and wafers, with flavours ranging from traditional to more distinctive options such as raspberry and matcha.
Wellness Bars – Go For Fit
The GFF – GO FOR FIT bars have been developed to meet the growing demand for health- and performance-oriented products.
Dark 70% cocoa with no added sugar: a premium choice aligned with wellness trends and suitable for low-sugar diets.
High Protein Milk Bar – 30% protein: formulated for active, sport-focused consumers, it combines flavour and functionality with high protein content. Perfect as a post-workout snack or convenient daily boost.
These two products expand our wellness portfolio and cater to health-conscious customers.
Swiss Chocolate Bars – Le Petit Chocolatier
Le Petit Chocolatier celebrates Swiss chocolate-making tradition, offering refined recipes, smooth textures and carefully sourced ingredients. Available in milk and dark chocolate varieties, with or without inclusions, these bars stand out for their balanced flavour profile and premium quality.
Perfect for everyday indulgence with a refined edge, this line targets mature, loyal customers looking for an accessible yet distinctive product. A solid option to enhance shelf offerings with a recognisable and dependable range.
In a market that is increasingly selective and segmented — where value often replaces volume — building a consistent portfolio means striking the right balance between innovation, positioning and range breadth.
Atlante’s chocolate range — from snack bars to functional and premium formats — is designed with this goal in mind: to turn real needs into targeted solutions for different consumers and channels.
