DESSERT TRENDS
Greater Dessert Times Drive Frequency
Cookie Craze
Desserts and the Snack Revolution
Balancing Sugar Control and Indulgence
Sweet Global Flavours
Affordable and Shareable Desserts
© Ipsos. FSM FOODSERVICE MONITOR | SYNDICATED
DESSERT TRENDS1. GREATER DESSERT TIMES DRIVE FREQUENCY
Since the post-pandemic period, there has been a notable increase in the demand for desserts and baked goods. This surge in popularity not only contributes to a larger spend per consumer during each visit but also accounts for a significant portion of foodservice sales, totaling around 12 billion dollars.
What sets desserts apart is their ability to drive higher frequency traffic. Not only are they in high demand, but they also attract customers to visit foodservice establishments more frequently. In fact, desserts had an impressive overall heavy visit frequency of 74.5% in 2023.
Recognizing the power of desserts in driving frequency, foodservice operators can strategically leverage this trend to create a loyal customer base.
The adaptability of the product, ensuring it can be used in a variety of applications.
The inclusion of recognizable confectionery brands that can enhance the value of your desserts.
Products that can reduce prep-time or labour in your kitchen.
DESSERT TRENDS2. COOKIE CRAZE
The increasing popularity of cookies among Gen Z and Millennials indicates promising long-term potential for this category. Cookies alone account for 9.7% of the total dessert market, with a significant spike of 15.6% among Gen Z consumers.
While different desserts may vary by daypart, cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions. They are largely occasion-agnostic, although flavour preferences may influence the choice of cookies during different times of the day.
Jumping on the cookie craze allows establishments to elevate their dessert offerings and provide a delightful treat that is suitable for any season, daypart, and occasion. Whether it's a classic chocolate chip cookie or an innovative flavour combination, cookies have the power to satisfy cravings and bring joy to customers.
DESSERT TRENDS3. DESSERTS AND THE SNACK REVOLUTION
Desserts have the potential to penetrate under-developed snacking occasions at foodservice, allowing establishments to tap into a large untapped market. While a small proportion of foodservice occasions are reported as snacks, the majority of in-home occasions are considered snacks.
This presents an opportunity for foodservice operators to expand their offerings and cater to the snacking preferences of customers.
Some of the top visit drivers for desserts and baked goods are Canadians looking for something that can be eaten quickly and can help them get through their day. This highlights the importance of providing convenient and satisfying dessert options that can serve as a quick snack or pick-me-up.
DESSERT TRENDS4. BALANCING SUGAR CONTROL AND INDULGENCE
of Canadian diners are actively trying to exclude sugar from their diet.
51% of Canadian diners are actively trying to exclude sugar from their diet. However, it is important to note that there is still a desire for indulgence. This highlights the importance of being mindful when creating a dessert menu, ensuring that a reasonable level of indulgence can be incorporated into their day.
One approach to address this desire for indulgence while considering sugar control is by offering smaller portions when serving desserts. By providing smaller-sized desserts, establishments can satisfy customers' cravings without compromising their health needs. This allows for a guilt-free indulgence that aligns with their sugar control goals.
DESSERT TRENDS5. SWEET GLOBAL FLAVOURS
Canadian consumers are expanding their taste horizons and embracing global flavours in their dessert choices.
Flavours like Matcha, Ube, Lychee, Guava, and Cardamom are gaining popularity, reflecting the growing influence of multicultural palates in the dessert category.
Among multicultural Canadians, top-ranked and developed desserts include pastries and turnovers, featuring sweet Eastern treats like Japanese pancakes.
Overall, new Canadians play a significant role in introducing new desserts to Canada, which gradually become more popular. As a result, menus now feature previously unavailable desserts such as Venezuelan Quesillo, reflecting the diverse and evolving dessert preferences of Canadians.
DESSERT TRENDS6. AFFORDABLE AND SHAREABLE DESSERTS
Although a relatively small proportion of diners are now prioritizing the main course and skipping dessert, there is an opportunity to cater to their desire for an affordable indulgence. Small and shareable desserts are the perfect solution to add a touch of indulgence without breaking the bank for consumers.
Diners don't want to give up on enjoying a night out, but financial pressures may lead them to reduce their overall order.
By offering small and shareable desserts, establishments can provide an enticing add-on that satisfies their craving for something sweet while being mindful of their budget.
To further entice diners, it is important to offset these financial pressures through deals and bundled combos. By offering value-driven promotions and combinations, establishments can make the indulgence of dessert more accessible and appealing to diners who are conscious of their spending.
Add value to your dessert menu with branded confectionery ingredients. Incorporate Nestlé Confectionery's range of Confectionery Spreads and Inclusions to infuse your dishes with the recognizable flavours of popular brands like KITKAT® or Coffee Crisp®.
