Small Indulgences, Big Returns: The Rise of Premium Confectionery

Premium confectionery has moved from a small category to one of the most resilient growth areas in sweets and bakery. We have all seen the shift: smaller treats that feel special, flavours that surprise, and textures designed to delight rather than simply fill a gap. 

Consumers may be choosing carefully what goes in their basket, but they are still willing to spend on a moment of indulgence. A single treat, crafted with care, is outperforming large packs of everyday treats. 

According to a 2025 market-report, the global premium chocolate and confectionery market is forecast to grow from USD 31.6 billion in 2025 to USD 68.1 billion by 2033, at a CAGR of about 10.4%. M2 Square Consultancy.

At OV, we see this change every day whether it’s retail, QSR or foodservice. The message is consistent: quality is winning. 

Why premium is resonating now 

From conversations with NPD teams and buying leads, a few themes stand out: 

• People are seeking small moments of indulgence 
• Ethical sourcing and clean labels are increasingly important 
• Visual appeal influences purchase, especially with younger consumers 
• Texture and flavour delivery matter more than ever 
• Limited editions and seasonal launches create a sense of urgency and buzz  

This creates an opening for manufacturers to deliver products that feel elevated, memorable and meaningfully different. The kind of products that justify shelf space and win repeat sales. 

Our audience tells us they want consistent quality, scalable formats, strong shelf life and support with innovation. This aligns perfectly with where the premium market is headed.  

What premium looks like in development 

We are seeing a new wave of products driven by indulgent inclusions, rich flavour bases and visual texture: 

• Caramel layers with depth and colour 
• Elevated chocolate percentages 
• Dessert-inspired fillings and toppings 
• Premium sprinkles and finishes for stand-out presentation 
• Flavour-first sauces and drizzles with an edge 

Manufacturers who embrace this shift are securing better positioning, stronger rate of sale and higher perceived value. Not by increasing portion size, but by enhancing experience. 

This is where OV’s strength lies: toppings, sweet dipping sauces, inclusions and decorations that unlock creativity while remaining production-friendly and commercially viable. The goal is always to help clients create products consumers come back for. 

How manufacturers can win in premium 

From our perspective, success comes down to three priorities: 

1. Ingredient choice that elevates experience 
   Premium products rely on flavour delivery, texture and visual impact. 
2. Innovation that solves a commercial problem 
   A topping or inclusion should be indulgent, but also easy to handle, stable and efficient in manufacturing. 
3. Partnership over procurement 
   When suppliers and NPD teams work together early, projects move faster and land stronger on shelf. 

This is exactly how we support our partners. Through collaboration, application testing and formats designed to scale without compromising sensory experience.  

Where the opportunity lies next 

Premium is no longer a luxury niche. It is becoming the standard consumers expect from chocolate, bakes, beverages and ice-cream. The brands that lead will be the ones prioritising indulgence, story, texture and quality and working with suppliers ready to co-create solutions. 

At OV, we believe premium should feel effortless to launch, scalable to produce and unforgettable to eat. Our role is to make that possible. 

If you’re exploring your next premium concept, we would love to be part of the thinking. Drop us a message.