Biscuits Market Outlook

The global biscuits market is projected to reach USD 118 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2035. This growth is fueled by a rising global demand for convenient snacks, driven by busy lifestyles and the growing trend towards on-the-go eating. Additionally, the increasing innovation in flavors and health-oriented products, such as gluten-free and organic biscuits, has captured consumer interest, further propelling market growth. Moreover, the expansion of the retail sector, especially e-commerce platforms, has made biscuits more accessible to consumers, contributing to the overall market development. The evolving consumer preferences towards healthier snacking options and the expansion of product ranges by key players are also critical factors supporting the growth of the biscuits market.

Growth Factor of the Market

The biscuits market is experiencing an upsurge due to multiple growth factors. One of the primary drivers is the increasing number of health-conscious consumers who are prioritizing nutritional content in their dietary choices. This has led manufacturers to innovate and diversify their offerings, particularly in the gluten-free and organic segments. Furthermore, the surge in on-the-go snacking habits, especially among millennials and working professionals, is pushing demand for biscuits as a convenient food option. The rise in disposable income in emerging markets is also playing a significant role, enabling consumers to purchase premium biscuit products. The growth of the food service industry, particularly in developing countries, has opened up new opportunities for biscuit suppliers to expand their market reach. Additionally, advancements in packaging technologies are enhancing product shelf life, making it easier for companies to distribute their products widely.

Key Highlights of the Market

• The biscuits market is projected to reach USD 118 billion by 2035.
• Growing consumer demand for healthy and organic biscuit options is driving innovation.
• On-the-go snacking trends among millennials contribute to market expansion.
• Emerging markets are witnessing a rise in disposable income, boosting biscuit consumption.
• Advancements in packaging technology are enhancing product distribution and shelf life.

By Product Type

Sweet Biscuits :

Sweet biscuits are one of the most popular and widely consumed categories within the biscuits market. These biscuits are characterized by their sugary taste and are often enjoyed with tea or coffee. The growing preference for indulgent snacks among consumers is driving the demand for sweet biscuits, which are available in various flavors, shapes, and sizes. The introduction of innovative flavor profiles, such as salted caramel and exotic fruits, is also helping to capture consumer interest. Additionally, seasonal and limited-edition sweet biscuits are gaining popularity, making them a frequent choice for gifting during festive seasons. The packaging innovations that enhance convenience and freshness are also contributing to the growth of sweet biscuits in the market.

Savory Biscuits :

Savory biscuits cater to consumers seeking a less sweet and more flavorful snacking option. These biscuits are typically infused with herbs, spices, and cheese, appealing to those who prefer salty snacks. The increasing preference for savory snacking options among health-conscious consumers is bolstering the growth of this segment. Additionally, the rise of culinary trends that emphasize locally-sourced ingredients and gourmet flavors has led to an expansion in the variety of savory biscuits available in the market. With consumers increasingly looking for snacks that can be paired with dips and spreads, savory biscuits are becoming more prominent in the snack aisles. Their versatility makes them suitable for various occasions, from casual snacking to sophisticated gatherings.

Filled Biscuits :

Filled biscuits have gained substantial popularity in recent years, characterized by their cream or jam fillings. This segment appeals to consumers seeking a more indulgent treat, often offering dual flavors in a single bite. The innovation in fillings, such as fruit, chocolate, and even savory options, makes filled biscuits a favorite among consumers of all ages. As manufacturers continue to experiment with fillings and provide unique taste experiences, this segment is poised for significant growth. Additionally, the packaging that highlights the multi-layered nature of these biscuits is enhancing their market appeal. The trend towards premium filled biscuits, made with natural and organic ingredients, is also boosting this segment's growth as consumers become more discerning about their snack choices.

Gluten-Free Biscuits :

The gluten-free biscuits segment is witnessing exponential growth as more consumers are adopting gluten-free diets, either due to health conditions like celiac disease or personal dietary preferences. This shift has prompted manufacturers to develop a range of gluten-free biscuits that do not compromise on taste or texture. Products made with alternative flours such as almond, coconut, and rice have become popular, catering to the growing demand for healthier snacking options. The continuous rise in awareness regarding gluten intolerance and allergies is further driving this market segment. As retailers expand their gluten-free offerings, the accessibility and appeal of gluten-free biscuits continue to enhance consumer interest, positioning this category for substantial growth in the coming years.

Organic Biscuits :

The organic biscuits segment is growing as consumers become increasingly conscious about the ingredients in their food. Organic products are perceived as healthier and more natural, leading to heightened demand for organic biscuits among health-conscious consumers. This market segment benefits from the trend towards sustainability, as many consumers are now prioritizing products that are environmentally friendly and free from synthetic additives. The expansion of organic farming practices has enabled manufacturers to source high-quality ingredients for their products. Moreover, the rise in certifications for organic products is enhancing consumer trust and driving purchases. With the increasing visibility of organic biscuits in retail channels, this segment is expected to witness strong growth as more consumers seek out organic options for their snacking needs.

By Application

Retail :

The retail sector is the largest application segment for biscuits, as it encompasses a wide range of distribution channels including supermarkets, hypermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty shops. The increasing presence of modern retail formats is facilitating the availability of various biscuit brands and flavors, thus catering to diverse consumer preferences. Retailers are also enhancing the shopping experience by creating attractive displays and promotions that drive impulse purchases. The expansion of e-commerce platforms has further broadened the reach of biscuit brands, allowing consumers to purchase their favorite products online. The shift in consumer behavior towards convenience has led to a surge in online shopping for snacks, contributing positively to the retail segment's growth. Overall, the retail application remains fundamental to the biscuit market's expansion.

Food Service :

The food service industry, which includes cafes, restaurants, and catering services, represents a significant application segment for biscuits. Biscuits are often used as accompaniments to beverages, snacks, and desserts in various food service settings. The growing trend of cafes and coffee shops incorporating artisanal biscuits into their menus is contributing to this segment's growth. Additionally, catering services increasingly offer premium biscuits as part of their snack options for events and gatherings, underscoring the versatility of biscuits. This segment benefits from the rising number of food service establishments globally, as increasing consumer spending on dining out enhances the demand for biscuits. Furthermore, the trend towards gourmet and specialty biscuits in the food service sector is driving innovation and expanding this market area.

Institutional :

The institutional application segment for biscuits encompasses schools, hospitals, and other organizations that provide snacks to specific populations. Institutional buyers often seek bulk purchasing options, aiming for cost-effective solutions that meet dietary needs. The growing awareness of the importance of nutritious snacks in institutional settings is leading to increased demand for healthier biscuit options, such as whole-grain and low-sugar varieties. Additionally, the rise in health-focused initiatives in schools and healthcare facilities is pushing institutions to choose biscuits that align with these guidelines. This segment has a significant growth potential as more institutions recognize the importance of providing quality snacks for their patrons. The emphasis on convenience and nutritional value makes biscuits an ideal choice for institutional applications.

By Distribution Channel

Supermarkets/Hypermarkets :

Supermarkets and hypermarkets make up a substantial portion of the biscuit distribution landscape, serving as primary retail channels for consumers. These large-format stores usually provide a diverse array of biscuit brands, types, and flavors, appealing to a broad customer base. The convenience of one-stop shopping allows customers to easily locate their preferred biscuit products alongside other grocery items. Promotions and discounts offered in these stores also drive significant sales volumes, enhancing their role in the biscuit market. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of modern trade, especially in developing regions, is contributing to the growth of this distribution channel. As consumers seek convenience and variety, supermarkets and hypermarkets remain critical in shaping purchasing behaviors in the biscuit sector.

Convenience Stores :

Convenience stores are emerging as a vital distribution channel for biscuits, driven by the growing demand for quick and accessible snack options. These stores cater to consumers seeking immediate gratification and are often strategically located in residential and commercial areas, making them ideal for impulse purchases. The assortment of biscuits available in convenience stores ranges from everyday favorites to premium selections, appealing to diverse consumer preferences. The focus on convenience and speed aligns with modern consumer lifestyles, further solidifying the importance of this channel. Additionally, promotional strategies, such as bundling offers or discounts on multi-packs, are common in convenience stores, enhancing their appeal. The convenience store segment is expected to experience steady growth as consumer preferences continue to shift toward quick and easy snack options.

Online Retail :

The online retail channel has gained traction in the biscuits market, largely attributed to the increasing popularity of e-commerce and changing consumer shopping habits. The convenience of shopping from home and the variety of options available online are driving consumers to purchase biscuits through digital platforms. Online retailers often provide exclusive deals and discounts, contributing to higher sales volumes. Furthermore, consumers can easily compare reviews and ratings for different biscuit brands, allowing them to make informed purchasing decisions. As logistics and delivery services improve, the online retail channel is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. The ongoing pandemic has accelerated the shift towards online shopping, making it a critical distribution channel for biscuit manufacturers looking to reach a broader audience.

Specialty Stores :

Specialty stores focus on niche markets and offer a curated selection of high-quality or gourmet biscuits, catering to discerning consumers. These stores often emphasize artisanal and unique biscuit options, attracting customers seeking premium products. The growing trend towards gourmet snacking and the interest in locally-sourced ingredients are driving consumer traffic to specialty stores. Moreover, specialty stores often create an engaging shopping experience, allowing consumers to explore various flavors and brands. As the demand for unique and high-quality snacks increase, specialty stores are positioned to thrive within the biscuits market. The ability to offer personalized service and expert recommendations further enhances their appeal to consumers looking for distinctive biscuit options.

By Ingredient Type

Chocolate :

Chocolate is a popular ingredient in the biscuit market, often used to enhance flavor and appeal to consumers with a sweet tooth. Chocolate biscuits come in various forms, including those coated or filled with chocolate, and they are typically associated with indulgence. The versatile nature of chocolate allows manufacturers to experiment with different variations, such as dark, milk, and white chocolate, appealing to diverse consumer preferences. The demand for chocolate biscuits is bolstered by the ongoing popularity of chocolate as a flavor profile in snacking, and the continuous innovation in product formulations helps maintain consumer interest. As brands focus on creating unique chocolate biscuit experiences, this segment is expected to see sustained growth, fueled by consumer desire for decadent treats.

Fruits & Nuts :

Fruits and nuts are increasingly being incorporated into biscuits, particularly as consumers seek healthier and more nutritious snack options. These ingredients are associated with positive health benefits and provide natural sweetness, making them an attractive addition to biscuits. The trend towards wholesome snacking is driving demand for fruit and nut-based biscuits, which are often marketed as energy-boosting snacks. Additionally, health trends promoting the consumption of whole foods are encouraging manufacturers to develop biscuits that highlight these ingredients. As consumers become more health-conscious, the fruits and nuts segment is poised for substantial growth within the biscuit market, bridging the gap between indulgence and nutrition.

Oats :

Oats have gained recognition as a healthy ingredient in the biscuits market, particularly due to their nutritional benefits, including high fiber content and low glycemic index. Oat-based biscuits are appealing to health-conscious consumers seeking guilt-free snacking options. The versatility of oats allows manufacturers to create a variety of products, from crunchy oat cookies to soft-baked biscuits, catering to diverse taste preferences. Additionally, the ongoing trend toward clean-label products is driving demand for biscuits made with whole grains and minimal additives, aligning with consumer desires for transparency in ingredients. As awareness of the health benefits of oats continues to rise, this segment is expected to experience significant growth within the biscuits market.

Whole Grains :

Whole grains are increasingly being recognized for their health benefits, driving the demand for whole grain biscuits in the market. Whole grain biscuits are often marketed as healthier alternatives to traditional biscuits, offering additional fiber and nutrients. The growing trend towards clean eating and the emphasis on balanced diets are influencing consumer choices towards whole grain options. Manufacturers are responding by developing a range of whole grain biscuits that combine taste and nutrition, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The versatility of whole grains allows for the creation of diverse biscuit varieties, catering to different consumer preferences. As the awareness of healthy snacking continues to grow, the whole grains segment is expected to thrive within the biscuits market.

Butter :

Butter is a traditional and widely-used ingredient in the biscuit-making process, contributing to the flavor, texture, and overall indulgence of the product. Biscuit varieties that emphasize the buttery taste are often favored by consumers looking for a rich and satisfying snack. The trend towards artisanal and homemade-style biscuits is further driving the popularity of butter as a key ingredient. Manufacturers continue to innovate with butter-based recipes, creating unique flavor combinations that appeal to a broader audience. Additionally, the rise of premium butter products, such as cultured or organic butter, is enhancing the quality and appeal of butter biscuits. As the demand for delicious and indulgent snacks persists, the butter segment within the biscuits market is poised for steady growth.

By Region

The biscuits market is geographically diverse, with North America and Europe accounting for the largest market shares. In North America, the biscuits market is projected to reach USD 36 billion by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 4.0%. This growth is driven by the increasing consumer demand for convenience snacks and the proliferation of premium biscuit brands. In Europe, the market is experiencing similar growth patterns, with an emphasis on health-oriented products, particularly in the organic and gluten-free segments. The region is expected to maintain its strong position in the global biscuits market as manufacturers continue to innovate and cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Asia Pacific is emerging as a significant growth region for the biscuits market, with a projected market size of USD 25 billion by 2035, expanding at a CAGR of 5.5%. The rise in disposable incomes, urbanization, and changing eating habits among consumers in countries like China and India are key contributors to this growth. The introduction of international brands and increasing exposure to Western snacking trends are transforming the biscuits landscape in the region. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing growth in their respective biscuits markets, driven by increasing consumer interest in diverse snack options, though their market sizes remain smaller compared to the leading regions.

Opportunities

The biscuits market is ripe with opportunities, particularly driven by the growing consumer emphasis on health and wellness. As more people become aware of the nutritional content of their snacks, there is significant potential for manufacturers to introduce healthier options that cater to this trend. This includes the development of biscuits enriched with superfoods, high fiber, and protein, appealing to health-conscious consumers. Additionally, as lifestyles become increasingly busy, the demand for convenient, ready-to-eat snacks is on the rise. Companies can leverage this trend by creating innovative packaging solutions that enhance portability, allowing consumers to enjoy biscuits on the go. The growing trend of veganism and dietary preferences for gluten-free or organic options also presents unique opportunities for market players to diversify their product lines and meet the needs of a broader consumer base.

Moreover, the expanding e-commerce landscape signifies a vital opportunity for biscuit manufacturers to reach a wider audience. By enhancing their online presence and employing targeted marketing strategies, brands can effectively tap into the growing trend of online shopping, particularly among younger consumers who prefer the convenience of purchasing snacks online. Collaborations with online retailers and the use of social media for brand promotion can further bolster sales. Additionally, exploring international markets, particularly in emerging economies, presents a significant growth opportunity. As consumer preferences evolve and demand for diverse snack options increases, companies can benefit by tailoring their product offerings to local tastes and preferences, thus enhancing their competitive edge in the global market.

Threats

One of the significant threats facing the biscuits market is the increasing competition from alternative snack categories, such as health bars and protein snacks. As consumers become more health-conscious, they are more likely to explore a wider range of snack options that align with their dietary preferences, potentially diverting attention from traditional biscuits. Furthermore, the rise of diet trends, including low-carb and ketogenic diets, can adversely impact the consumption of biscuits, as they are often perceived as high-carbohydrate snacks. Manufacturers must remain vigilant and continuously innovate to maintain their market share and appeal to evolving consumer preferences. Additionally, fluctuations in raw material prices can pose a threat, impacting production costs and ultimately affecting profitability.

Another restraining factor for the biscuits market is the stringent regulations imposed by health authorities concerning the nutritional content and labeling of food products. Compliance with these regulations can increase operational costs for manufacturers, particularly smaller companies that may not have the resources to adapt to changing standards as quickly. Additionally, the increasing awareness of food safety and quality among consumers can drive demand for transparency, requiring companies to provide detailed information about ingredient sourcing and processing. Failure to meet these expectations can lead to a loss of consumer trust and brand loyalty. As such, businesses must prioritize compliance and transparency while effectively communicating their product values to maintain a competitive edge in this dynamic market.

Competitor Outlook

• Mondelez International
• PepsiCo
• Nabisco
• Britannia Industries
• Parle Products
• General Mills
• Walkers Shortbread
• Lotus Bakeries
• Kraft Heinz Company
• Sunfeast (ITC Limited)
• McVitie's (United Biscuits)
• Utz Quality Foods
• Jules Destrooper
• Bisk Farm (ITC Limited)
• Anzac Biscuits

The competitive landscape of the biscuits market is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging brands, each striving to capture market share through innovation and product differentiation. Major companies like Mondelez International and PepsiCo dominate the market with their extensive portfolios of biscuit brands that include iconic names such as Oreo and Chips Ahoy!, respectively. These companies leverage their strong distribution networks and marketing campaigns to maintain brand loyalty and attract new consumers. Additionally, they are continuously investing in research and development to introduce new products that cater to changing consumer preferences, particularly in the areas of health and convenience. The competition in the market is intense, driving companies to innovate and adapt to the evolving landscape.

Emerging companies and niche players are also making their mark in the biscuits market by focusing on specialty products and unique flavors. Brands like Lotus Bakeries and Walkers Shortbread emphasize artisanal quality and traditional recipes, appealing to consumers seeking premium and gourmet options. Furthermore, health-focused brands are gaining traction by introducing organic and gluten-free biscuits that cater to the growing demand for healthier snacking choices. These players often utilize targeted marketing strategies to reach specific consumer segments, enhancing their visibility in a crowded market. As consumer preferences continue to evolve, the competitive landscape is likely to see ongoing shifts, with companies that prioritize innovation and quality positioned to succeed.

Additionally, collaboration and mergers are becoming increasingly common in the biscuits market, as companies seek to expand their product offerings and improve market reach. For instance, strategic partnerships between established players and emerging brands can lead to the development of new flavors and product lines, benefiting both parties. Acquisitions allow larger companies to incorporate niche brands into their portfolios, enhancing their competitive advantage while catering to diverse consumer tastes. The focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing is also influencing competitive dynamics, as consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases. Companies that prioritize sustainability practices are likely to gain favor among consumers, further shaping the competitive landscape in the biscuits market.