Denmark: in 2011, introduced fat tax
UK:
Debate on introducing fat tax which suggest increase in prices of unhealthy food
Two-pronged approach in policy in order to encourage healthy lifestyle
Public health responsibility deal
Traffic labelling scheme
Technological
GLOBAL
Innovation on healthy-oriented chocolate confectionery
UK:
New formats rather than product innovation
Development in packaging: smaller packaging, sharing bags, multi – purposes single bag
Flavour extension
Economic
Economic growth up to 2013:
Weakest in Western Europe
Rapid in Asia Pacific and Latin America
Salary rate:
Emerging countries: rapid economic growth high growth in income
UK: low wage/salary rate
International chocolate confectionery demand started rising since 2011:
Slow growth in Western and European markets
Accelerated growth in emerging markets
Environmental
A decrease in global cocoa production due to less-than-ideal growing condition and an increase in cocoa consumption an increase in chocolate production costs
Social
GLOBAL
Increase in health concerns, especially obesity
Globally, consumers pay more for chocolate (GMID Datagraphic 29/7/2013)
Increase in demand for low-priced convenient chocolate snacks. Prime example: France and US (Euro Monitor – Searching for… 2013)
Different demand for chocolate in different regions:
North America, Western Europe & Eastern Europe: Maturing consumer demand
Asia (mostly China), India, Columbia & Brazil: Semi-premium & Premiumisation trend (mostly consumed in traditional celebrations)
France, US, UK & Latin America (especially in urban areas): Higher demand for low-priced convenient chocolate snacks
UK
A decrease in trend of Fairtrade products
Factor influencing choice mostly: Price
An increase in 65’s generation
“Lipstick effect” – consumers prefer affordable luxuries rather than expensive goods
Legal
The Food Safety Act 1990 (as amended)
The General Food Law Regulation (EC)