While dessert flavors in chocolate are maturing, drinks flavors are growing. This is because taste explorers are seeking new experiences and are hungry for novel sensorial delights. They are already embracing new & fusion-style beverages, so they are open to trying them in treats too; and sharing the experience with others.

• 71% of consumers say “I want to try new and exciting chocolate experiences."¹
• 43% of consumers now enjoy cocktail/alcoholic/coffee/tea flavors in chocolate.² 

As snacking increases and lines blur between categories, consumers are enjoying more sweet & savory moments. The opportunity for chocolate is to cross into new formats, offer more functional benefits particularly in dark chocolate, and go beyond salted caramel to draw on new sources of salt for the next generation of flavors.

• 93% of consumers snack, and 43% of them eat dark chocolate as a snack – mostly for a satisfying indulgence⁵
• 11% of consumers love “Spicy” or “Salty” chocolate, with growth in Botanical flavors such as herbs, spices & flora⁶

People love chocolates that feel personal and special. It’s the chance to express your own personality. The opportunity is to transform chocolate from universal to unique, especially in gifting. 

• 37% of consumers say they “Prefer exclusive or limited edition chocolate"⁹
• 43% of consumers say they want “Tailor made chocolate that is the perfect fit for me"¹⁰ ​