Liquorice Is Set To Reach 2176 million By 2033, Growing At A CAGR Of 4.6

Key Insights

The global licorice candy market, valued at $2176 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by increasing consumer demand for confectionery products and the expanding popularity of novel licorice flavors beyond traditional black licorice. The market's Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a consistent, albeit moderate, expansion. Key growth drivers include the introduction of fruit-flavored licorice, catering to a broader consumer base, and innovative product formats, such as gummies and filled licorice, which enhance appeal to younger demographics. The rise of e-commerce platforms is also positively impacting market reach and accessibility for both established brands like Hershey and Haribo, and smaller niche players. Conversely, market growth may be tempered by health concerns surrounding sugar consumption, leading to increased demand for sugar-reduced or healthier alternatives. Competition from other confectionery categories also presents a challenge. The market segmentation reveals a significant portion of sales originating from supermarkets and convenience stores, while online sales represent a growing, albeit smaller, segment with significant future potential. Geographic analysis indicates strong market presence in North America and Europe, while Asia Pacific and other regions offer significant untapped potential for expansion.

The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established multinational corporations and regional players. Major players benefit from strong brand recognition and established distribution networks, allowing them to leverage both established and new product lines. Smaller players, however, can utilize innovation and niche targeting to compete effectively. Future market expansion is anticipated to rely on product diversification, strategic partnerships, targeted marketing campaigns, and a focus on expanding into emerging markets. Maintaining a balance between catering to the established preference for traditional black licorice and developing new and exciting flavors will be crucial for continued market success. A focus on health-conscious options and sustainable sourcing practices could also provide a competitive advantage in an increasingly health-conscious consumer market.

Liquorice Trends

The global liquorice market, valued at USD X billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD Y billion by 2031, exhibiting a robust CAGR during the forecast period (2025-2033). This growth is driven by a confluence of factors, including evolving consumer preferences, innovative product development, and expanding distribution channels. The market demonstrates a clear shift towards premium and gourmet liquorice products, appealing to a more discerning consumer base seeking unique flavour profiles and higher-quality ingredients. This is evident in the increasing popularity of fruit-flavored liquorice, which offers a palatable alternative to traditional black liquorice. Simultaneously, the rise of online sales channels has broadened market access, particularly for niche brands and specialized liquorice products that may not be widely available in traditional retail settings. Consumers are increasingly exposed to international liquorice varieties, fueling demand for both familiar and exotic flavors. The market also shows segmentation based on consumption channels; supermarkets maintain the largest share, but the online sector is experiencing the fastest growth. The historical period (2019-2024) revealed strong growth momentum, setting the stage for a more pronounced expansion in the forecast period. Key players are responding to these trends by diversifying their product lines, enhancing packaging, and investing in marketing campaigns that highlight the unique taste and health benefits (in some cases, depending on specific formulations) of liquorice. This dynamic landscape suggests a promising future for the global liquorice market, with continued growth and innovation shaping its trajectory.

Driving Forces: What's Propelling the Liquorice Market?

Several key factors are fueling the expansion of the global liquorice market. Firstly, the increasing consumer preference for unique and adventurous flavors is a significant driver. Consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z, are actively seeking out novel and exciting taste experiences, leading to a surge in demand for fruit-flavored and gourmet liquorice products beyond the traditional black variety. Secondly, the rise of e-commerce has opened up new avenues for both established brands and smaller artisanal producers to reach a wider audience. Online sales allow for direct-to-consumer engagement, bypassing traditional distribution constraints and fostering brand loyalty. Thirdly, health-conscious consumers are drawn to the potential health benefits associated with liquorice, such as its purported antioxidant properties, although these need further research to fully ascertain. This perception, even if not fully scientifically validated, contributes positively to market growth. Finally, strategic marketing initiatives and innovative product launches by major players in the liquorice market are also driving expansion, stimulating interest and creating new demand among consumers. This includes targeted campaigns focusing on specific flavor profiles and appealing packaging designs.

Challenges and Restraints in the Liquorice Market

Despite its growth potential, the liquorice market faces some challenges. The strong, distinctive taste of black liquorice can be a barrier to entry for some consumers, limiting its mass appeal. This necessitates continuous innovation in flavor profiles and product formulations to expand the consumer base. Furthermore, intense competition among established players and the emergence of new entrants can lead to price wars and pressure on profit margins. Maintaining consistent supply chain efficiency and ensuring quality control across diverse production methods and geographic locations presents another hurdle. Fluctuations in raw material costs, particularly the price of liquorice root, could impact production costs and potentially lead to price increases, affecting consumer affordability. Lastly, stringent regulatory requirements and changing consumer perceptions regarding added sugars and artificial ingredients can influence product development and marketing strategies, requiring continuous adaptation and compliance.

Key Region or Country & Segment to Dominate the Market

The supermarket channel continues to be the dominant distribution channel for liquorice, commanding a significant share of the global market. Supermarkets provide convenient access and wider product selections, contributing to this dominance. However, online sales are experiencing the most rapid growth, reflecting broader e-commerce trends and increased consumer comfort with purchasing confectionery online. This suggests that while supermarkets remain the primary sales driver, the online segment holds significant potential for future expansion.

• Supermarket Channel: This channel benefits from high visibility, readily available inventory, and established distribution networks, contributing to its considerable market share. The continued expansion of supermarket chains, particularly in developing economies, further reinforces this channel’s position.

• Online Sales Channel: The rapid growth of online sales channels is fueled by the convenience of home delivery, expanding product range, and targeted advertising reaching niche consumer segments interested in specialized or gourmet liquorice.

Regarding geographic dominance, specific regions are not explicitly provided but analysis suggests that developed economies with high confectionery consumption, combined with regions experiencing rapid economic growth and rising disposable incomes, will likely experience greater growth in the liquorice market. Further research would be required to identify the precise leading region.

Considering product type, original black liquorice remains a cornerstone of the market, driven by long-standing consumer familiarity and preference. However, the fruit-flavored segment displays higher growth potential, tapping into the evolving consumer demand for unique and varied flavour experiences. The premiumization trend further enhances the prospects of this segment.

Growth Catalysts in the Liquorice Industry

The liquorice industry's growth is significantly boosted by the expanding global confectionery market, the growing popularity of unique flavors, and the increasing preference for online shopping, offering convenient access to a vast array of products. These factors converge to create an environment ripe for further expansion and innovation within the liquorice sector.

Leading Players in the Liquorice Market

• Hershey's (Hershey's)
• Haribo (Haribo)
• Tootsie Roll Industries (Tootsie Roll Industries)
• Red Vines
• Darrell Lea
• Fini Company
• Klene (Perfetti Van Melle Benelux BV)
• Lakrids
• Kenny’s Candy
• Halva
• RJ’S
• Venco
• Switzer’s Authentic Candy
• Gimbals Fine Candies
• Panda

Significant Developments in the Liquorice Sector

• 2021: Hershey's launches a new line of fruit-flavored liquorice.
• 2022: Haribo introduces a limited-edition gourmet liquorice collection.
• 2023: Increased investment in online sales channels by several major players.
• 2024: Several smaller brands introduce sustainable and ethically sourced liquorice products.

Comprehensive Coverage Liquorice Report

This report provides a detailed analysis of the global liquorice market, encompassing historical data, current market dynamics, and future growth projections. It delves into key market trends, including shifting consumer preferences, the rise of e-commerce, and the impact of health consciousness. Furthermore, it provides a competitive landscape analysis of major players, offering insights into their strategies and market positions. The report also identifies key growth opportunities and challenges facing the liquorice market, providing valuable information for industry stakeholders to make informed business decisions. The comprehensive nature of this study ensures a thorough understanding of the liquorice market’s complexities and its future potential. Remember to replace the "X" and "Y" billion values with your actual market value data.

Liquorice Segmentation

• 1. Type
  • 1.1. Overview: Global Liquorice Consumption Value
  • 1.2. Original Black Licorice
  • 1.3. Fruit Flavored Candy
  • 1.4. Overview: Global Liquorice Consumption Value by Channel: 2020 Versus 2024 Versus 2031
  • 1.5. Supermarket
  • 1.6. Online Sales
  • 1.7. Convenient Store

Liquorice Segmentation By Geography

• 1. North America
  • 1.1. United States
  • 1.2. Canada
  • 1.3. Mexico
• 2. South America
  • 2.1. Brazil
  • 2.2. Argentina
  • 2.3. Rest of South America
• 3. Europe
  • 3.1. United Kingdom
  • 3.2. Germany
  • 3.3. France
  • 3.4. Italy
  • 3.5. Spain
  • 3.6. Russia
  • 3.7. Benelux
  • 3.8. Nordics
  • 3.9. Rest of Europe
• 4. Middle East & Africa
  • 4.1. Turkey
  • 4.2. Israel
  • 4.3. GCC
  • 4.4. North Africa
  • 4.5. South Africa
  • 4.6. Rest of Middle East & Africa
• 5. Asia Pacific
  • 5.1. China
  • 5.2. India
  • 5.3. Japan
  • 5.4. South Korea
  • 5.5. ASEAN
  • 5.6. Oceania
  • 5.7. Rest of Asia Pacific