News and Trends

 Source: Tastetomorrow.com, 28th October 2025 Chocolate is evolving into a richer,  more  emotional , and more conscious  indulgence What do chocolate consumers around the world desire for 2026? Discover the latest predictions by Taste Tomorrow, the world’s most powerful trend research program in the chocolate industry. Use these insights to stay ahead and craft chocolates that truly resonate with your customers.  According to our global consumer survey and trend forecasting model, these are the top chocolate trends that will shape the future of indulgence: Memorable experiences Plant-based chocolate Rich fillings  Memorable experiences Chocolate treats that leave a lasting impression In 2026, chocolate is no longer just something consumers eat—it’s something they experience. People are increasingly drawn to  emotionally engaging, multi-sensory treats  that combine  nostalgia, novelty, and interactivity . These products do more than satisfy c...

Taste Tomorrow, the global consumer insights program by Puratos dedicated to bakery, patisserie and chocolate, has revealed the top three trends set to shape the future of these industries globally in 2026. The world’s largest program of its kind, Taste Tomorrow blends insights from over 23,000 consumers across more than 56 countries with ‘always-on’ semantic AI analysis of social conversations and search engine enquiries. Expecting the unexpected in texture: 67% consumer appeal The world of pastry in particular is being transformed by the rise of contrasting textures, as consumers increasingly crave treats that combine soft with crunchy, chewy with crispy, and flaky with creamy elements. Textural interest is now a key driver of food enjoyment for 71% of consumers globally, according to Taste Tomorrow, with 67% actively seeking novelty through unexpected mouthfeels. The growing appetite for multi-texture indulgence is also driving innovation across cakes, desserts and fine patisserie. ...

A new generation of bakery and snack innovation is prioritizing feel as much as flavor – from creamy layers to crisp shells, every bite is becoming an experience. (Getty Images) Flavor still rules bakery and snacks, but in 2026, the way they feel is fast becoming the new measure of delight Key takeaways: Consumers are craving multi-sensory indulgence, pushing bakery and snack makers to design products that engage touch, sound and emotion – not just taste. Brands like Mondelēz and Puratos are translating texture into a strategic advantage, using data to predict and shape sensory trends before they peak. In 2026, success will favor those who turn eating into an experience — crafting snacks that are seen, heard, and felt as much as they’re tasted. Ask a shopper what makes a croissant, cookie or snack irresistible and they’ll start with flavor. That first hit of butter or chocolate still wins the heart. But what turns a good bite into a great one is what happens next – the pull, the snap, ...

Coffee’s not just a pick-me-up anymore. It’s helping bakeries pull ahead in a slowing market Key takeaways: Coffee quality now drives bakery choice, with 81% of consumers saying it’s a major deciding factor. Younger drinkers are pushing demand for cold and specialty coffees, boosting average spend per visit. Bakeries offering premium, convenient coffee experiences are outperforming the wider out-of-home market. Coffee chains might still dominate the headlines, but the real buzz is brewing inside bakeries and sandwich shops. Lincoln & York’s newest report finds that 81% of consumers say the quality of the coffee is a major factor in where they buy their bun – a stat that’s forcing operators to think differently about their drinks offer. Almost half (47%) of consumers buy coffee from a bakery or sandwich shop once a month, and one in five 25- to 34-year-olds do it weekly. Another 68% would recommend a bakery purely on the strength of its coffee. That alone says plenty: coffee’s not t...

  Source: Lumina Intelligence In recent years, UK coffee consumer attitudes have changed significantly. Beyond the wake-me-up cup and the Frappuccino craze of old, coffee culture has evolved to reflect higher expectations and a focus on speciality coffee. This shift does not respond merely to a change in taste, but also to a stronger consideration of provenance, health and sustainability when selecting a daily or weekly brew. Coffee is no longer just a drink; it is a cultural experience, wellness ritual and sustainability statement. 15% of UK adults enjoy a coffee occasion each week Over 9 million coffee occasions weekly 1.2 coffee occasions per person per week, totalling 9.2 million weekly adult coffee occasions In recent years, consumer attitudes towards coffee have changed significantly, giving rise to new coffee trends in 2025 that blend quality, wellness and innovation. According to  Lumina Intelligence’s Menu Tracker  (March 2025), the average price of coffee across...