Table of Contents
Snacks Market Overview
The snacks industry is a rapidly growing sector with diverse categories, including savory, sweet, and healthy snacks. Changing consumer preferences towards healthier options and increased urbanization contribute to its growth. Competition is fierce, with both large corporations and smaller players vying for market share.
Regional variations in taste and consumption patterns exist, and technological advancements impact packaging and production. Sustainability and health trends are gaining importance, while various distribution channels play a crucial role in market accessibility.
Market Drivers
The global snacks market is on the rise due to changing consumer preferences favoring convenient and healthier options. Rapid urbanization, globalization, and innovative product offerings are contributing to this growth.
Additionally, the expansion of e-commerce and effective marketing strategies play significant roles in boosting snack sales. This global snacking culture, where snacks have become an essential part of daily life, further fuels the market’s upward trajectory.
Market Size
The Global Snacks Market was worth $1,173.9 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow to $1,720 billion by 2032, with the highest expected annual growth rate of 4.0% between 2023 and 2032.
List of Major Companies
These are the top ten companies operating in the Snacks Market:
General-Mills
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1856 |
| Headquarter | Golden Valley, Minnesota, U.S. |
| Key Management | Jeffrey Harmening (Chairman & CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 17.6 Billion (2020) |
| Headcount | ~ 35,000 (2020) |
| Website | http://www.generalmills.com/ |
About General Mills
General Mills, Inc. stands as a prominent figure in the snacks sector, presenting a range of well-loved snack labels. Renowned for offerings such as Nature Valley granola bars, Fiber One snack rich in fiber, Chex Mix savory treats, and Bugle’s distinctive cone-shaped snacks, the company maintains a worldwide reach.
General Mills consistently strives to adapt to shifting consumer tastes and dietary preferences, concentrating on flavor, convenience, and health-conscious selections. Moreover, the company places importance on responsible ingredient sourcing and eco-friendly practices in harmony with consumer expectations for sustainability.
Geographical Presence
General Mills, based in Minneapolis, USA, is a significant player in North America, especially in cereals, snacks, and baking products. It also has a strong presence in Europe, with a focus on key countries like the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Spain. In the Asia-Pacific region, including China, Japan, India, and Australia, the company tailors its food products to suit local preferences.
In Latin America, encompassing Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina, General Mills adjusts its offerings to fit regional tastes. While its influence in Africa and the Middle East is limited, the company has strategically entered markets such as South Africa and the United Arab Emirates.
Recent Developments
- In November 2023, General Mills, Inc. revealed its acquisition of Fera Pets, Inc., a pet supplement company founded by veterinarians. This move marks General Mills’ entry into the pet supplement sector and is the inaugural acquisition made by its recently established growth equity fund.
- In October 2023, General Mills, along with Walmart and Sam’s Club, joined forces to promote the use of regenerative agriculture across 600,000 acres in the United States by the year 2030.
PepsiCo
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1898 |
| Headquarter | Harrison, New York, U.S. |
| Key Management | Ramon Laguarta (Chairman & CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 86.4 Billion (2022) |
| Headcount | ~ 315,000 (2022) |
| Website | http://pepsico.com/ |
About PepsiCo
PepsiCo, Inc. holds a significant position in the snacks industry, recognized for its extensive assortment of snack brands. Well-established names like Lay’s potato chips, Doritos, Tostitos, and Cheetos have firmly established the company’s worldwide reach. PepsiCo is committed to ongoing innovation, regularly updating its snack selections to match evolving consumer tastes and offering a diverse array of flavors and snack options.
Additionally, the company places a strong focus on sustainability, integrating responsible ingredient sourcing and eco-friendly practices in response to the increasing consumer demand for environmentally friendly choices.
Geographical Presence
PepsiCo, Inc. has a strong worldwide presence, offering its products in various regions across the globe. While it’s headquartered in the United States, the company’s reach extends far beyond its home country. PepsiCo’s snacks and beverages are enjoyed by consumers in North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, and other regions.
Recent Developments
- In November 2023, PepsiCo launched the third year of its worldwide agricultural initiative, the PAO Accelerator. It is supporting eight innovation projects in nine countries as part of this program.
- In September 2023, The PepsiCo Foundation revealed additional recipients for the Impacto Hispanic Business Accelerator Program.
Nestle
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1866 |
| Headquarter | Vevey, Vaud, Switzerland |
| Key Management | Paul Bulcke (Chairman) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 98.9 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 275,000 (2023) |
| Website | http://nestle.com/ |
About Nestlé
Nestlé S.A. holds a significant position in the snacks sector, known for its variety of beloved snack labels. Iconic brands like Kit Kat chocolate bars, Smarties colorful candies, and Nesquik flavored milk products are enjoyed by people worldwide.
Nestlé has a strong global presence, making use of an established distribution system. The company prioritizes innovation to adapt to shifting consumer tastes and dietary trends while also emphasizing sustainability initiatives in response to growing consumer interest in environmentally friendly practices.
Geographical Presence
Nestlé operates in numerous countries, establishing itself as one of the world’s largest and most widely distributed consumer goods companies. The company’s geographic footprint can be categorized into key regions, including Europe, where it is headquartered, North America, the Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East.
Nestlé’s extensive operations in these regions encompass a diverse range of products tailored to local preferences, including dairy, confectionery, coffee, infant nutrition, and more.
Recent Development
- In January 2024, Nestlé launched the first KitKat made from cocoa sourced from farmers participating in its income accelerator program. This initiative aims to foster a connection between consumers and these farmers while also promoting awareness about the sustainability of the cocoa used in KitKat bars.
- In January 2024, Nestlé Vietnam invested $100 million to expand its Tri An coffee factory in Đồng Nai, aiming to meet the rising demand for quality coffee from both local and international consumers.
Hershey
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1894 |
| Headquarter | Hershey, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Key Management | Michele Buck (Chairman, President & CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $8.9 Billion (2021) |
| Headcount | ~ 16,620 (2021) |
| Website | https://www.thehersheycompany.com/en_us/home.html |
About The Hershey Company
The Hershey Company stands as a leading figure in the snacks industry, celebrated for its wide array of snack brands. Renowned names like Hershey’s chocolates, Reese’s peanut butter cups, Twizzler licorice twists, and Jolly Rancher hard candies have earned global acclaim.
The company maintains a strong global presence, ensuring its products are readily available in various countries and regions. Hershey’s commitment to innovation, offering a blend of traditional and inventive flavors, caters to evolving consumer preferences. Moreover, it places a notable emphasis on sustainability, integrating responsible ingredient sourcing and eco-friendly practices.
Geographical Presence
The Hershey Company, a prominent leader in the confectionery industry, maintains a robust global presence. Headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA, the company’s geographical reach spans across North America, including the United States and Canada.
Beyond its North American roots, The Hershey Company has strategically expanded into international markets, encompassing regions like Europe, Asia, and Latin America.
Recent Developments
- In April 2023, the Hershey Company introduced the Income Accelerator initiative in Côte d’Ivoire. This program aims to boost the earnings of cocoa farming households by offering cash transfers (CTs) and investing in village savings and loan associations (VSLAs).
- In March 2023, the Hershey Company extended its partnership with CBS Sports and Warner Bros. for an additional six years.
Mondelez
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1923 |
| Headquarter | Chicago, Illinois, United States |
| Key Management | Dirk Van de Put (Chairman and CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $28.7 B (2021) |
| Headcount | ~ 79,000 (2021) |
| Website | http://mondelezinternational.com/ |
About Mondelez International
Mondelez International, Inc. is a major player in the snacks industry, known for its wide array of popular snack brands like Oreo cookies, Cadbury chocolates, Ritz crackers, and Trident gum. With a strong global presence, its products are available in numerous countries.
Mondelez International prioritizes innovation to adapt to evolving consumer preferences and offers a blend of traditional and innovative snacks. Sustainability is also a key focus, with responsible ingredient sourcing and eco-friendly practices, reflecting the growing consumer interest in environmentally conscious options.
Geographical Presence
Mondelez International, Inc. has a widespread global presence, making its snack products accessible to consumers across various regions and continents. While based in the United States, the company’s influence extends to North America, including Canada, as well as Europe and the United Kingdom.
It has also established a significant foothold in Asia and Latin America, introducing its snack brands to emerging markets. This extensive geographical reach allows Mondelez International to cater to a diverse and broad consumer audience on a global scale.
Recent Developments
- In September 2023, Mondelēz International, Inc. unveiled the nine selected companies for the CoLab Tech accelerator program. This initiative, led by the company’s research and development team, aims to collaborate with startups to tackle challenges related to technology-driven food production and sustainability.
- In May 2023, Mondelēz International, Inc. inaugurated its new Global Research & Development (R&D) Innovation Center in Whippany, New Jersey.
Conagra
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1919 |
| Headquarter | Chicago, Illinois, U.S. |
| Key Management | Sean Connolly (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 12.3 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 18,600 (2023) |
| Website | https://www.conagrabrands.com/ |
About Conagra Brands
Conagra Brands, Inc. is a prominent figure in the snacks industry, renowned for its diverse snack brands. Recognizable names like Slim Jim meat sticks, Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn products, and Angie’s Boomchickapop popcorn options have garnered consumer acclaim. The company maintains a strong presence in the consumer food market, with products available in various retail locations.
Conagra Brands prioritizes innovation to meet evolving consumer preferences, offering a wide array of flavors and snack selections. Additionally, sustainability is a key focus, encompassing responsible ingredient sourcing and eco-conscious practices, in line with the growing consumer demand for environmentally friendly choices.
Geographical Presence
Conagra Brands, Inc. has a significant presence across various regions, particularly in the United States. As an established American multinational food company, Conagra Brands’ snack products are widely accessible to consumers in numerous states and markets.
While its headquarters are in Chicago, Illinois, the company’s influence extends to North America, including Canada, where its snacks are well-received.
Recent Developments
- In December 2023, Conagra Brands shared the outcomes of its yearly “United for Change” employee fundraising campaign, raising over $500,000. These funds will support United Way, United Way member organizations, and other charities aligned with the varied passions of Conagra employees.
- In July 2023, Conagra Brands, Inc. introduced over 50 new products this summer in its frozen, grocery, and snacks divisions. Responding to changing consumer preferences, the company’s well-known brands have created fresh recipes that offer modern, flavorful food in innovative ways.
Mars
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1911 |
| Headquarter | McLean, Virginia, U.S. |
| Key Management | John Franklyn Mars (Chairman) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 48 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 140,000 (2022) |
| Website | https://www.mars.com/ |
About Mars
Mars, Inc. is a significant player in the snacks industry, renowned for its diverse range of well-known snack brands like M&M’s, Snickers, Twix, and Milky Way. With a strong global presence, its products are accessible in convenience stores, supermarkets, and retail outlets worldwide.
Mars, Inc. emphasizes innovation to adapt to changing consumer tastes, offering a mix of classic and inventive flavors. Sustainability is also a focal point, involving responsible ingredient sourcing and eco-friendly practices, aligning with the rising consumer demand for environmentally conscious options.
Geographical Presence
While based in McLean, Virginia, in the United States, the company’s influence extends far beyond its home country. Mars, Inc. enjoys a substantial presence in North America, including Canada, where its snack and confectionery brands are highly regarded.
The company’s reach extends to Europe, where consumers across the continent savor its products. In addition, Mars, Inc. has expanded its operations into diverse markets in Asia, Latin America, and other parts of the world, introducing its well-loved brands to a wide range of cultures and consumers.
Recent Developments
- In January 2024, Mars unveiled its new Global Research and Development Hub at the Goose Island campus, serving as the global headquarters for its Snacking business. Valued at $42 million and covering 44,000 square feet, this facility is one of seven Mars innovation hubs worldwide. It specializes in chocolate and nut research, testing, and innovation. With Mars’ goal to double its Snacking business in the coming decade, this hub provides 300 R&D Associates in Chicago the resources to develop and refine new products for the company’s extensive snacking portfolio before their global launch.
- In October 2023, Mars introduced an unprecedented collaboration with Uber and SKITTLES through a brand campaign that will be rolled out on Uber and Uber Eats. This unique partnership marks a first for Mars and offers a delightful experience to hungry Uber Rides and Eats customers.
Unilever
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1929 |
| Headquarter | London, England |
| Key Management | Hein Schumacher (CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 63.2 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 127,000 (2023) |
| Website | https://www.unilever.com/ |
About Unilever
Unilever plc holds a prominent position in the snacks industry, offering a diverse range of well-known snack brands. With its headquarters in London, United Kingdom, and Rotterdam, Netherlands, Unilever has established itself as a global leader in consumer goods. Their snacks portfolio includes iconic names like Magnum, Cornetto, Ben & Jerry’s, and Popsicle, celebrated for their delectable ice cream and frozen treats.
These products enjoy wide availability in grocery stores, convenience shops, and supermarkets worldwide. Unilever plc places a strong emphasis on innovation and sustainability, adapting to changing consumer preferences while remaining committed to environmentally friendly practices, in line with the growing demand for eco-conscious choices.
Geographical Presence
Unilever plc has established a widespread global presence, ensuring its products are accessible to consumers across the world. With headquarters in London, United Kingdom, and Rotterdam, Netherlands, the company efficiently manages its international operations.
Unilever plc’s products are available in a multitude of countries and regions, encompassing North America, Europe, Asia, Latin America, Africa, and beyond.
Recent Development
- In December 2023, Unilever made a significant move by agreeing to purchase K18, a premium biotech haircare brand. This acquisition aligns with Unilever’s strategy of enhancing its portfolio in high-growth sectors.
- In December 2023, Unilever received a binding offer from Yellow Wood Partners LLC for the acquisition of Elida Beauty.
Kraft-Heinz
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 2015 |
| Headquarter | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
| Key Management | Miguel Patricio (Chairman and CEO) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 26.5 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 37,000 (2023) |
| Website | https://www.kraftheinzcompany.com/ |
About Kraft Heinz Company
The Kraft Heinz Company is a well-established presence in the snacks industry, offering a wide variety of snack products. This American multinational corporation resulted from the merger of Kraft Foods and Heinz in 2015. The company’s snacks segment includes popular brands like Planters for nuts, Oscar Mayer for meat-based snacks, and Kraft-branded snacks, such as cheese products.
These snacks are readily available in grocery stores, convenience shops, and supermarkets across the world. The Kraft Heinz Company places a strong emphasis on adapting to evolving consumer tastes while also focusing on sustainability initiatives, in line with the growing demand for eco-conscious practices.
Geographical Presence
The Kraft Heinz Company has established a significant global presence, ensuring its products are accessible to consumers across the world. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, in the United States, the company effectively manages its international operations.
Its product availability spans North America, including the United States and Canada, where many of its iconic brands are well-known. The company has also expanded its footprint into Europe, Latin America, Asia, and various other regions, introducing its snacks and food products to diverse markets and cultures.
Recent Developments
- In January 2024, Oscar Mayer invited fans to apply for a unique opportunity: a full-time, paid position driving the famous Wienermobile for one year.
- In November 2023, Kraft Heinz introduced KRAFT NotMac & Cheese, the inaugural plant-based version of KRAFT Mac & Cheese in the United States.
ITC
Company Overview
| Establishment Year | 1910 |
| Headquarter | Kolkata, West Bengal, India |
| Key Management | Sanjiv Puri (Chairman & MD) |
| Revenue (US$ Bn) | $ 9.8 Billion (2023) |
| Headcount | ~ 49,824 (2023) |
| Website | https://www.itcportal.com/ |
About ITC Limited
ITC Limited, headquartered in Kolkata, India, is a renowned conglomerate with a strong presence in the snacks industry. Established in 1910, the company has diversified its business interests across various sectors. In the snacks segment, ITC offers popular brands like Bingo! known for its range of potato chips and finger snacks, as well as Sunfeast biscuits and cookies in both savory and sweet flavors.
These snacks are widely accessible throughout India, available in grocery stores, convenience shops, and supermarkets, catering to diverse snacking preferences. ITC places a strong focus on innovation and adaptation to changing consumer tastes, while also prioritizing sustainability practices, aligning with the global trend toward eco-conscious choices.
Geographical Presence
ITC Limited, headquartered in Kolkata, India, holds a strong and extensive presence within the country. Its products, spanning snacks and various consumer goods, are readily available in urban and rural areas through grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience shops across major states and regions of India.
Although it has ventured into select international markets with its snacks and biscuits, ITC Limited’s primary focus remains on serving the diverse consumer base within India.
Recent Developments
- In June 2023, Bingo! Tedhe Medhe introduced a pioneering AI campaign in India, offering a unique snacking experience. The brand is excited to blend AI technology with snacking, creating a delightful combination that will tantalize taste buds and evoke laughter. With their motto of ‘Eat, then Repeat,’ Bingo! intends to connect with its audience by taking them on an enjoyable journey down memory lane, filled with hunger-induced moments of nostalgia.
- In June 2023, Aashirvaad Atta, the leading packaged atta brand in India, introduced ‘Namma Chakki,’ a new direct-to-consumer (D2C) service in Bengaluru. ‘Namma Chakki’ aims to serve as a convenient, all-in-one solution for consumers’ flour requirements.
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