Confection Industry Struggles With Snacking Surge Driven By Younger Consumers

Snack industry research finds that younger generations are driving robust sales and innovation in snacking. Big confectionery brands are feeling the impact as consumer tastes shift from conventional snacks toward other newer options, including organic. The big brands are also feeling the heat from private label (store) brands. But a key force operating against Big Confectionery is Amazon – “the endless shelf,” as one industry expert calls it – which caters to the demands of Millennials and Gen Z consumers through its Wickedly Prime and Whole Foods 365 Everyday brands. The online retailer sold $518 million worth of snacks in 2017. Meanwhile, younger consumers are expected to keep up their snacking habits as they age, with per capita snacking at meal times expected to rise by 12 percent. ]