Category Analysis - Dessert
Overview of the Dessert Industry
The dessert industry has long occupied a sweet spot in consumer preference, transforming from mere indulgence to an integral part of contemporary dining experiences. Globally, it encompasses a myriad of products including cakes, pastries, gelatos, and puddings, each reflecting cultural tastes and preferences. The market's dynamics are influenced by dietary trends, innovation in flavors and ingredients, and the increasing integration of desserts in everyday meals, rather than relegating them to afterthoughts at dinner.
In recent years, the rise of social media platforms has further propelled the visibility of dessert brands, with visually appealing creations garnering attention and, dare we say, virality. This trend has prompted bakeries and sweets manufacturers to step up their game, reimagining traditional offerings with modern twists. For a good measure, check out the Instagram page of Dessert Junkie, which epitomises the visually-driven desserts marketplace.
Recent Trends and Changes
The modern dessert landscape has been shaped by several key trends. Perhaps most significant is the move towards health-conscious alternatives in response to growing consumer awareness regarding nutrition. The popularity of vegan and gluten-free options has surged, driven by demands for inclusivity in dietary preferences. Brands such as Love Jen have capitalised on this niche, offering dessert options that tantalise the palate while keeping dietary concerns in consideration.
Additionally, sourcing sustainably produced ingredients has garnered traction among the environmentally concerned populace. Consumers are increasingly seeking products that align with their values, influencing brands to demonstrate transparency and sustainability in their business models; an aspiration deftly embraced by Ben & Jerry's, renowned not just for their ice creams but for their commitment to responsible sourcing and social activism.
The Economics of the Dessert Industry
Economically, the dessert industry has displayed resilience amidst global economic fluctuations. According to market research firm Mordor Intelligence, the global desserts market was valued at approximately £111 billion in 2020 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.5% from 2021 to 2026.
Factors driving this growth include the proliferation of the e-commerce sector, which has opened new avenues for reaching consumers. Deliveries of artisanal desserts have also gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing a shift in consumer shopping behaviours. Hence, a robust digital presence has become paramount for brands hoping to capture market share and cater to a more demanding consumer base.
Growth and Contraction in the Market
While the dessert industry is growing, challenges remain on the horizon. Inflationary pressures have led to rising raw material costs, which could erode margins for both small bakeries and large manufacturers alike. Additionally, an oversaturation of the market with various entrants has the potential to stifle growth, particularly for companies failing to differentiate themselves adequately.
Nonetheless, premiumisation is on the rise, with consumers willing to pay more for quality or artisanal products. This shift provides a glimmer of hope even amidst potential market contractions, as those brands that manage to carve out their unique niches will thrive. Gourmet Food World exemplifies this trend by offering high-end dessert ingredients, catering specifically to discerning consumers aiming to replicate gourmet experiences at home.
Major Players in the Dessert Market
The dessert sector is vividly populated by an eclectic mix of brands and manufacturers, each contributing to the overall richness of the industry. Among the stalwarts of the sector is Nestlé, a global food giant whose portfolio ranges from frozen desserts to confectioneries. Their ability to adapt to changing consumer tastes has made them a mainstay in kitchens across the world.
Meanwhile, newer entrants like Milk Bar have whipped up a storm in the dessert landscape, pioneering innovative, nostalgia-fueled products such as their signature crack pie. The brand harnesses modern marketing strategies, engaging with followers across both social media and the reality TV landscape, thus remaining relevant in a competitive market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the dessert industry is characterised by a blend of tradition and innovation, responding adeptly to shifting consumer preferences and market dynamics. As the sector continues to evolve with emerging trends such as health consciousness and sustainability, its players must remain nimble and attuned to the whims of modern consumers. The landscape is set to become even sweeter, provided both established and fledgling brands can pull the right strings in their quest for culinary delight.
As they say, one man's dessert is another man's obsession. The future certainly looks bright for those willing to rise to the occasion—and the challenge.
Example Products in this Category:
Brands in this Category:
| Name | Story | Brand Categories | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Name | Story | Brand Categories | |
| tryboredcow | Bored Cow is packed with sustainable milk protein, and rich in calcium and vitamin D. It's perfect for cooking, baking, and coffee making. Finally a milk alternative that is lactose free, actually has protein, and can hold a froth in a latte. What's not to love? Bored Cow can do it all. Bored Cow requires less land, uses less water, and generates fewer greenhouse gas emissions than conventional dairy milk. Want to see the numbers for yourself? Bored Cow is a brand that focuses on creating delicious and innovative dairy alternatives that cater to a wide range of dietary preferences. Join our email list for promotions, giveaways, and other communications from the cows. | Dairy Alternatives,Beverages,Health Foods,Plant-Based Milk,Oat Milk,Vegan Products,Plant-Based Products,Snacks,Desserts,scenes,eyes,outfits,accessories,Milk,Merchandise,Merch | |
| Craig's Vegan | Craig's Vegan is a dairy free frozen dessert company born out of Craig’s Restaurant in West Hollywood. We’ve perfected the use of cashews to make the most creamy and delicious dairy free frozen desserts in all your favorite classic flavors. | Vegan Ice Cream,Dairy-Free Desserts | |
| Nowhere Bakery | Nowhere Bakery has been 10 years in the making. It started out with making healthier dessert recipes in my tiny model apartment in Hong Kong, that spawned into a dessert blog with countless hours of researching, testing, tasting and shooting. 3 failed business ventures, a round of Masterchef auditions, and years of consistently showing up for no one but myself to ultimately do what I love - bake healthy desserts. My career path has been a windy road with many potholes and wrong turns along the way but my compass always steered me back to the kitchen. I was constantly making better-for-you treats that not only I could enjoy but also that my husband (and co-founder) Maurizio would as well. You see, I had gut issues, multiple food intolerances and couldn’t really find anything on the shelves to satisfy my sweet tooth without making me feel horrible. Maurizio on the other hand could eat a razor blade and feel absolutely fine. His taste buds were used to the more traditional desserts of the world and didn’t care for the dry texture and ‘healthy’ taste that came with every better for you option currently on the market. A dessert that catered to both of our needs was NOWHERE to be found, so we created it. With just a $400 investment, countless late nights and early mornings. A lot of grit, and unwavering determination to build the best dessert company this world has seen. One that caters to both sides of the coin - decadent in taste and texture but also made with clean, real ingredients you could find in your pantry, and most importantly that your body loves you back for. | Desserts,Healthy Snacks,Baking Kits | |
| Coco & Chip | Coco & Chip enables cookie lovers to bake artisanal, bakery-style cookies right at home! Founded in 2018 by Erik Fraser, the brand was born out of a passion for creating the perfect cookie. After years of dissatisfaction with store-bought cookie dough, Fraser dedicated ten years to research and recipe refinement, resulting in a cookie dough made with real ingredients and no preservatives. The meticulous process ensures a perfect cookie every time, with a crisp exterior and soft, gooey center. | Baked Goods,Desserts,Food Products | |
| Sharman's Proper Pies | Sharman's Proper Pies specializes in delivering delicious handmade pies right to your door, offering a variety of options including meaty, vegetarian, and dessert pies. The brand emphasizes convenience with subscription services for regular deliveries. | Pies,Savoury Pies,Dessert Pies,Vegetarian Pies,Chicken & Fish Pies | |
| Fat Kid Cookie Company | Fat Kid Cookie Co was born out of a desire to make life a little brighter. Stephanie Wiley, founder, has always had a passion for baking. She finds solace in the process and relishes in the joy her treats bring to friends and family. Everyone has an inner “fat kid” who feels satisfied from the perfect treat. Close friends and family couldn’t resist Stephanie’s now-famous recipe, and that’s how Fat Kid Cookie Co earned its name. Stephanie’s cookies have something for everyone. An amazing mix of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors are tasted in every bite. They are made by hand in small batches with simple ingredients. Fat Kid Cookie Co became a reality after the tragic death of Stephanie’s son in 2020. Tommy loved life. He preferred to spend his time outdoors, snowboarding, hiking and enjoying nature. He was a loyal friend and had the gift of making people feel seen, and unfortunately he had the disease of addiction. He wanted nothing more than to be sober, went to rehab and achieved just that. He amazingly caught up on all his schoolwork and graduated from high school on time, with his classmates. A week after graduation, Tommy used again and died of fentanyl poisoning. With the isolation from COVID, Tommy didn’t get a chance to live a sober life. Tommy did not want to die and while we do not believe he knew he was taking fentanyl, the hard truth is that one pill can kill. Launching Fat Kid Cookie Company was a way for Stephanie to move forward in her grief and her life, because cookies don't have to be serious! | Baked Goods,Snacks,Desserts | |
| Juliette & Chocolat | Juliette & Chocolat is the perfect place to fall in love with chocolate and discover this magical ingredient in all its forms! Whether online or at one of our locations/restaurants, enjoy our creamy desserts served in generous portions for everyone. Welcome to chocolate lovers' paradise! | Desserts,Chocolates,Gift Baskets,Catering,Online Store | |
| Elavi | Elavi is an LA-based, gut-friendly snack brand delivering low sugar, vegan dessert spreads that come in an array of fun colors naturally from superfoods. Founded by Michelle and Nikki, who met at the gym and struggled with nutrition they could trust, they created Elavi to provide real ingredients that keep your belly happy. The name Elavi is inspired by the word elevate, reflecting their mission to provide elevated food products to fuel consumers to feel their very best. | Snacks,Desserts,Nut Butters | |
| Donutful | Donutful was created to provide high quality, great tasting donuts made with 100% real ingredients and without any junk. The brand emphasizes simplicity and joy in their products, aiming to deliver delicious treats that make people happy. | Snacks,Bakery,Desserts | |
| Mrs. Hewitt's | Mrs. Hewitt’s uses only the highest quality ingredients with no preservatives to make the most enjoyable tasting gluten free products. | Breads,Rolls,Buns,Savory Stuffing,Pizza Crust,Baking Mixes,Desserts,Brownies,Cookies,Gifts & Variety Boxes | |
| So Delicious | So Delicious has been bringing you dairy-free deliciousness—decadent frozen desserts, creamy yogurt alternatives, smooth plant-based beverages and flavorful coffee creamers—for over 30 years. But being dairy-free goes beyond deliciousness. We believe people have the power to eat good, feel good, and do good, which is why we’re committed to transforming mindful ingredients into mind-blowing delicious products that do right by people and the planet. It’s about thoughtful choices around everything we do; from sourcing ingredients and packaging to equality in company policies. We call it #MoreThanTheMinimum. It’s our mission to do more. | Beverages,Frozen Desserts,Yogurt Alternatives,Creamers | |
| macromike | Macro Mike is dedicated to providing delicious, plant-based, gluten-free protein products that are crafted using all natural ingredients with gut health in mind. Established in 2016, the brand aims to empower individuals who have felt restricted in their food choices by offering a range of nutritious and macro-friendly options. | Protein Powder,Protein Water,Meal Replacement Shakes,Protein Snacks,Protein Desserts,Baking Mixes,Peanut Butter,Performance Apparel & Accessories | |
| chocxo | Truly Indulgent. Lower Sugar. Always Organic. We believe chocolate is best when it is made responsibly from the best organic ingredients. At Chocxo, carefully selected, sustainably-sourced organic cocoa and simple organic ingredients come together for a chocolate experience like no other. The natural indulgence of Chocxo chocolate requires less sugar while being naturally more flavorful and better for the planet. Utilizing the best ingredients nature has to offer, with none of the artificial sweeteners. That’s our secret to delicious chocolate that is naturally lower in real sugar. | Organic,Low Sugar,Indulgent,Organic Chocolate,Sustainable Chocolate,Sweets,Gourmet Food,Snacks,Desserts,Confectionery,Low Sugar Chocolate,Gourmet | |
| Dougies Goodies | In 1983, a young lad called Douglas (Dougie) put on an apron and dived headfirst into the world of baking as an apprentice. As he baked his way through the doughy delights, Dougie’s talent began to rise. Opportunity then knocked at the door and Dougie was offered the chance to take the reins of his very own bakery in Ballymena, Northern Ireland. The Dougies Goodies adventure began, the bakery became so popular that Dougie needed more hands-on deck, eight to be precise. As the aroma of Dougies bakes and cakes spread throughout the local area so did the need for space. Dougies Goodies expanded and what began as a “small bakery” soon transformed into a buzzing coffee and bakehouse. 2022: Everyone needs a Dougies Goodies. Since then Frank and Georgina alongside an expanding team of passionate people have been whisking up a storm, infusing the bakery with fresh ideas and exciting changes to transform and expand. Despite the recent changes and transformations the original Dougies Goodies recipe hasn't changed as let's face it, it can't get any better. | Cakes,Desserts,Cupcakes,Corporate Catering,Gift Vouchers | |
| iheartbrownies | Fall in love with Brisbane's Iconic Heart-Shaped Brownies ❤️ Since 2012, we’ve been creating the perfect brownie, handmade with the best ingredients that coin can buy. No scrimping, absolutely zero nasties, and we’re proudly 100% gluten-free. Our ‘build your own’ brownie towers are easy to construct and a wonderful alternative to a traditional celebration cake. I❤️Brownies offers a delightful alternative to traditional gifts, focusing on delivering delicious brownies that are well-packaged and received positively by customers. | Gift Packs,Bulk Brownies,Celebration Brownies,Desserts,Baked Goods,Gifts,Brownies,Bakery,Cookies | |
| Schwartz Brothers Bakery | Founded in 1973 by two brothers to serve our family of restaurants, Schwartz Brothers Bakery has expanded to provide high-quality, house-made desserts and pastries to local coffee shops, restaurants, and supermarkets. We pride ourselves on our culinary expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to quality, serving both local and national markets. | Desserts,Pastries,Baked Goods | |
| nutsola | We make clean eating easy. No Added Sugars. Ever! We're on a mission to shake up the food industry with clean, healthy and delicious products without added sugars. We're a family company passionate about product innovation and helping you live a healthy lifestyle. Look and feel your best through a lifestyle of clean eating without added sugars. Nutsola is dedicated to providing delicious snacks made with clean ingredients, catering to those who are health-conscious and looking for alternatives to ultra-processed foods. NUTSÓLA is dedicated to providing delicious, healthy snacks that are made with sustainable ingredients. | Clean Eating,Healthy Snacks,Chocolate,Superfood Bites,Superfood Mixes,Date Glazed Nuts,Keto-friendly,No Added Sugar,Vegan,Gluten-free,Gut Friendly Snacks,Clean Ingredients,Breakfast,Snacking,Dessert,Desserts,Snacks,Healthy Eating,Health Foods,Chocolate Bar | |
| Oriana Nice Creamery | In 2020, during the Covid lockdowns, founders Brad and Jess started making gelato in their home for their loved ones. They realized that there was a gap in the market for non-dairy options that not only tasted great but were also sustainable and environmentally conscious. Their vision was clear: to prove that plant based gelato made from coconut milk could surpass the taste and texture of traditional ice cream and gelato. What sets Oriana Nice Creamery apart is not only its plant-based nature but also its commitment to exquisite taste. We believe that a scoop of plant based gelato can embody both compassion and culinary excellence. | Plant-Based Gelato,Vegan Desserts | |
| Chudleigh's | Chudleigh's is dedicated to delivering a taste of the country right to your door, offering a variety of desserts, jams, ciders, and gifts. They focus on quality and customer satisfaction, ensuring that their products are fresh and delicious. | Desserts,Jams & Spreads,Cider,Gifts | |
| Guudy Ice Cream | Guudy Ice Cream was founded in December 2019 by Oly in Miami, FL, after her personal struggles with Hashimoto's Disease led her to create a healthy dessert alternative. Oly aimed to develop an ice cream that is both delicious and beneficial for health, using only wholesome ingredients. The brand is inspired by her mother, Abuela Olivia, who had to quit desserts due to health issues related to sugar. Guudy Ice Cream aims to provide a sweet treat that everyone can enjoy without compromising health. | Desserts,Frozen Foods,Health Foods | |
| Taharka Brothers | Taharka Brothers is an employee owned company with a unique history and purpose. They focus on creating hand-crafted, small-batch ice cream that supports social change and community uplift in Baltimore. | Food & Beverage,Desserts,Gifts | |
| One Stop Bakery | One Stop Bakery specializes in authentic Italian baked goods, offering a wide range of artisan breads, pastries, cakes, and custom desserts made with high-quality ingredients. The bakery is committed to showcasing genuine Italian baking traditions and craftsmanship, ensuring every product reflects the essence of Italy. | Bakery,Catering,Wholesale,Custom Desserts,Artisan Breads,Pastries,Cakes,Cookies,Sweets,Savory Foods,Donuts | |
| Something Sweet | In April of 1994, Dan & I were married and #TeamCook was established. We had three daughters, Lindsey, Brittney and Cailin. Our life was like many young families, consumed with dance classes, girl scouts and sports. We loved being an all girl family and Dan adored his girls. We faced many challenges over the years but faith has always been the foundation of our family. Facing life's challenges can weaken a family or make it stronger. For us, each challenge we faced individually or as a family, we chose to face it together. Dan started referring to us as “Team Cook” when the girls were young. We had no idea at the time, but the nickname “Team Cook” would represent more than just a cute name. Laughter has been an integral part of our home. Many times, it was the silliness of Dan that had our family crying tears from laughing so hard. In November of 2021, Dan passed away unexpectedly. Lindsey, Brittney, Cailin, Clayton (Lindsey’s Husband) and myself were by his side as he took his last breath. Throughout his time in the hospital, we leaned into our faith and the support of our friends, family and community. The pain of his loss has been devastating. In our own ways, each of us has tried to make sense of losing him. Dan was a big personality and was loved by so many people. He was the life of the party, and made each day fun. Dan has been gone now for almost three years and we want to make him proud. He was our biggest supporter, cheerleader, and always had big dreams. Although he is not here with us, we still have a lot to accomplish. It is in his memory and for him, that we make him proud. He loved when I would bake and he had many favorite things but my cookies topped the list of his favorites. He always told me I needed to do something with my baked goods but the time just never seemed right...until now. We love and miss Dan everyday. The girls and I had a choice to make when we lost him: We could let the grief smother us or we could lean into it and try to create something together; in his honor. We chose option B! When | Desserts,Baked Goods,Frozen Foods | |
| Gelato Boy | Gelato Boy is the beautiful union of a desire to create authentic gelato that rivals your most traditional gelaterias, paired with a no-compromises approach to sourcing the best ingredients available. Founded by Bryce and Giulia, who fell in love while studying in Italy, Gelato Boy brings the authentic taste of Italian gelato to Colorado, using fresh-first recipes and local dairy. | Dairy-Free,Vegan,Desserts |
