세계 비스킷 시장 규모는 2024년에 1,286억 5,000만 달러에 달했습니다. 향후 IMARC Group은 2033년에는 1,870억 달러에 달하고, 2025-2033년 4.2%의 연평균 복합 성장률(CAGR)을 보일 것으로 예측했습니다. 현재 아시아태평양이 시장을 독점하고 있으며, 2024년 시장 점유율은 37.5%를 초과할 것으로 예측됩니다. 비스킷 시장을 이끄는 주요 요인으로는 편리한 간식 옵션에 대한 선호도 증가, 다양한 맛, 질감, 모양의 혁신적인 제품 출시, 온라인 플랫폼에서 쉽게 제품을 구할 수 있는 점 등이 있습니다.
비스킷은 밀가루를 베이스로 한 간식이나 과자를 구운 것으로, 전형적인 바삭하고 건조한 식감이 특징입니다. 밀가루, 설탕, 버터 또는 식물성 기름, 계란, 베이킹파우더나 베이킹소다와 같은 팽창제, 향료 등의 재료로 구성됩니다. 반죽이나 반죽은 모양을 만들고 바삭바삭해질 때까지 구워집니다. 비스킷은 간식, 디저트, 차나 커피에 곁들여 먹기 좋은 간식거리로 인기가 있습니다. 다양한 모양, 크기, 맛으로 만들어지며, 플레인, 크림, 샌드위치, 웨이퍼 스타일, 쇼트브레드, 다이제스티브 등 다양한 유형이 있습니다.
시장은 주로 식습관 및 기호 변화에 따른 간식 문화의 확대에 의해 주도되고 있습니다. 비스킷은 식사와 식사 사이에 간식으로 소비되는 경우가 많으며, 빠르게 에너지를 보충할 수 있습니다. 비스킷의 편리함과 휴대성으로 인해 간식용 스낵의 인기 상품으로 자리 잡으며 시장 성장에 기여하고 있습니다. 또한, 식품 시장의 세계화와 국제 무역의 활성화는 비스킷 브랜드의 새로운 시장 진출을 촉진하고 있습니다. 따라서 다양한 지역의 다양한 비스킷 제품을 구할 수 있게 되고, 음식의 취향이 문화 간 교류하게 된 것도 성장을 가속하는 큰 요인으로 작용하고 있습니다. 슈퍼마켓, 대형마트, 편의점 등 조직화된 소매업의 확대로 비스킷 제품의 진열 공간과 가시성이 향상되고 있습니다. 이는 비스킷에 대한 접근성을 높이고 소비자의 편의성을 향상시켜 시장 성장에 기여하고 있습니다.
편리한 간식 옵션에 대한 선호도 증가
소비자들의 라이프스타일이 바쁘고 시간 제약이 많아짐에 따라 이동 중이나 잠깐의 휴식 시간에 먹을 수 있는 편리한 간식 옵션에 대한 수요가 증가하고 있습니다. 비스킷은 휴대가 가능하고, 포장되어 있으며, 별도의 조리가 필요 없는 비스킷은 이러한 요구를 충족시킵니다. 비스킷은 간편하고 쉽게 먹을 수 있는 스낵으로 그 편리함이 수요의 원동력이 되고 있습니다. 또한, 소비자들은 하루 종일 식사를 하는 대신 자주 간식을 먹는 것을 선택하게 되었습니다. 비스킷은 편리하고 간편한 간식 선택으로 이러한 새로운 소비 패턴에 적합합니다. 또한, 많은 비스킷 브랜드는 이동 중에도 편리하게 섭취할 수 있도록 1회 제공량 또는 용량 조절 패키지를 제공합니다. 이러한 1회 제공량 패키지는 소비자의 부분 조절에 대한 욕구를 충족시키고, 부분 분할 및 보관에 대한 걱정 없이 간식을 즐길 수 있도록 하여 시장 성장에 기여하고 있습니다.
혁신적인 제품 소개
소비자들은 신선하고 독특한 경험을 제공하는 참신한 제품에 매력을 느끼는 경우가 많습니다. 혁신적인 맛, 원료 조합, 제품 포맷의 도입은 소비자의 관심을 끌고 매출과 브랜드 충성도를 향상시킬 수 있습니다. 또한, 제조업체들은 혁신적인 비스킷 제품을 출시하여 미개척의 새로운 시장 부문을 개척하고 있습니다. 예를 들어, 글루텐 프리, 비건, 유기농 비스킷 옵션의 등장은 특별한 식습관과 라이프스타일에 대한 수요 증가에 대응하는 것입니다. 이는 독특한 재료, 장인정신, 고급스러운 패키지를 특징으로 하는 프리미엄 비스킷과 미식가 비스킷의 출시와 함께 시장 성장에 긍정적인 영향을 미치고 있습니다.
온라인 플랫폼에서 제품을 쉽게 구할 수 있습니다.
온라인 플랫폼은 소비자에게 다양한 브랜드와 제조업체의 다양한 비스킷 제품을 편리하게 이용할 수 있는 기회를 제공합니다. 소비자들은 집이나 이동 중에도 다양한 제품을 검색하고, 가격을 비교하고, 리뷰를 읽고, 구매를 할 수 있습니다. 이러한 접근성 향상은 오프라인 매장이나 다양한 비스킷을 쉽게 구할 수 없는 소비자들에게도 비스킷 제품의 도달 범위를 넓힐 수 있습니다. 또한, 온라인 플랫폼은 소규모의 틈새 비스킷 브랜드가 더 많은 소비자에게 다가갈 수 있게 해줍니다. 이러한 플랫폼은 유기농, 글루텐 프리, 비건, 국제 품종과 같이 현지 매장에서 구할 수 없는 특수 비스킷 제품을 위한 공간을 제공합니다. 이는 또한 시장 성장에 긍정적인 원동력이 되고 있습니다.
The global biscuits market size was valued at USD 128.65 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 187.0 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.2% from 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a market share of over 37.5% in 2024. The market is driven by rising preference toward convenience snacking options, the introduction of innovative products in various flavors, textures, and shapes, and the easy product availability on online platforms are some of the major factors propelling the biscuits market share.
Biscuits are baked, flour-based snacks or treats that are typically crisp and dry. They consist of ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter or vegetable oil, eggs, leavening agents like baking powder or baking soda, and flavorings. The dough or batter is formed into shapes and then baked until they become crispy or firm. Biscuits are popular as a snack, dessert, or accompaniment to tea or coffee. They are made in various shapes, sizes, and flavors and can be found in a wide range of varieties, including plain, cream-filled, sandwiched, wafer-style, shortbread, digestive, and many more.
The market is primarily driven by the growing snacking culture due to changing eating habits and preferences. Biscuits are often consumed as snacks between meals, providing a quick energy boost. The convenience and portability of biscuits make them a popular choice for snacking, contributing to market growth. In addition, the globalization of food markets and increased international trade have facilitated the expansion of biscuit brands into new markets. Hence, the availability of diverse biscuit products from different regions and the cross-cultural exchange of culinary preferences represents another major growth-inducing factor. The expansion of organized retail, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores, provides increased shelf space and visibility for biscuit products. This facilitates easy access to biscuits, enhancing consumer convenience and contributing to market growth.
The rising preference toward convenient snacking options
As consumers' lifestyles become busier and time-constrained, there is a growing demand for convenient snacking options that can be consumed on-the-go or during quick breaks. Biscuits fulfill this need as they are portable, pre-packaged, and require no additional preparation. The convenience factor drives the demand for biscuits as an easy and accessible snack. Moreover, consumers are increasingly opting for frequent snacking throughout the day instead of having full meals. Biscuits serve as a convenient and quick snacking option, fitting into these new consumption patterns. Besides, many biscuit brands offer individually wrapped or portion-controlled packages, making them convenient for on-the-go consumption. These single-serve packages cater to consumers' desire for portion control, allowing them to enjoy a snack without the need for portioning or storage concerns, thus contributing to market growth.
The introduction of innovative products
Consumers are often drawn to new and novel offerings that provide a fresh and unique experience. The introduction of innovative flavors, ingredient combinations, or product formats is generating consumer engagement, leading to increased sales and brand loyalty. In addition, manufacturers are tapping into new and untapped market segments by introducing innovative biscuit products. For example, the advent of gluten-free, vegan, or organic biscuit options caters to the growing demand for specialty diets and lifestyles. This, coupled with the launch of premium and gourmet biscuits, featuring unique ingredients, artisanal craftsmanship, or luxury packaging is positively influencing the market growth.
The easy product availability on online platforms
Online platforms provide consumers convenient access to a wide range of biscuit products from various brands and manufacturers. Customers can browse different options, compare prices, read reviews, and make purchases from the comfort of their homes or on-the-go. This increased accessibility expands the reach of biscuit products to consumers who may not have easy access to physical stores or a diverse selection of biscuits locally. Moreover, online platforms enable smaller and niche biscuit brands to reach a wider consumer audience. These platforms provide a space for specialty biscuit products, such as organic, gluten-free, vegan, or international varieties, which may have limited availability in local stores. This is also providing a positive thrust to market growth.
Sweet biscuits dominate the market
Sweet biscuits have long been a popular choice among consumers worldwide. The sweet flavor profile appeals to a broad range of tastes and preferences, making them a go-to option for indulgence and enjoyment. Moreover, these biscuits come in a wide range of flavors, textures, and forms such as classic butter cookies, chocolate chip cookies, cream-filled sandwich biscuits, wafer biscuits, and more that offer a diverse selection to consumers. This versatility and variety contribute to the dominance of sweet biscuits in the market. Besides, sweet biscuits are often perceived as snacks or desserts that provide a satisfying treat or a quick energy boost. They are enjoyed on their own, paired with beverages like tea or coffee, or used as ingredients in desserts and recipes. This snack and dessert appeal of sweet biscuits makes them a popular choice among consumers looking for a quick and enjoyable indulgence.
Wheat holds the largest share in the biscuits industry
Wheat is a staple grain that is widely recognized for its nutritional value. It is a rich source of carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and various essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Wheat-based biscuits can provide a substantial amount of energy, making them a satisfying and nourishing snack option. Moreover, consumers are familiar with the taste, texture, and aroma of wheat-based biscuits, which contributes to their preference and widespread acceptance. In addition, wheat flour possesses desirable functional properties for biscuit production as it contributes to the dough structure, provides texture and volume, and assists in the browning and flavor development during baking, thus accelerating its adoption in production of biscuits.
Nowadays, as consumers increasingly prioritize health and wellness, there is a growing demand for healthier biscuit options made with grains like oats and millets. In addition, they are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, thus increasing their market share.
Pouches/Packets represent the leading market segment
Pouches or packets offer convenience to consumers as individually wrapped or portion-controlled biscuit packets are easy to carry, store, and can be consumed on-the-go. They eliminate the need for additional packaging or storage containers, making them suitable for busy lifestyles and snacking occasions. In addition, pouches or packets often provide better protection against moisture, air, and light, preserving the freshness and quality of biscuits. This extends the shelf life of the products, ensuring that consumers can enjoy biscuits for longer periods without compromising taste or texture. Moreover, pouches or packets can be designed with eye-catching graphics, colors, and branding elements, enhancing their on-shelf visibility. The attractive packaging helps draw consumer attention and facilitates brand recognition and differentiation in a competitive market, thus strengthening the dominance of packets in the market.
Biscuits are majorly distributed through supermarkets and hypermarkets
Supermarkets and hypermarkets offer a wide range of products, including various biscuit brands, flavors, and types. These retail outlets provide ample shelf space to accommodate a diverse selection of biscuits, catering to different consumer preferences and demands. The extensive product range available in supermarkets and hypermarkets ensures that consumers have a variety of options. Moreover, these stores provide ample space for displaying different packaging formats, including convenient pouches, boxes, and multipacks. The packaging formats are designed to enhance product visibility and consumer appeal, making it easier for shoppers to locate and select their desired biscuit products.
Online platforms offer convenience and time-saving benefits to consumers. They can easily search for specific biscuit products, filter results based on their preferences, and have the products delivered to their doorstep. This eliminates the need for physical store visits, saving time and effort. This convenience factor contributes to the growing preference for purchasing biscuits online.
Asia Pacific exhibits a clear dominance, accounting for the largest biscuits market share
The report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, Russia, and others); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa.
Asia Pacific is home to a significant portion of the global population, including highly populous countries such as China and India. The large consumer base in the region drives the demand for biscuits, resulting in a substantial market size. Moreover, the region is experiencing rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles, which is escalating the demand for packaged and easily accessible food options, including biscuits. The expansion of organized retail, such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores, has played a crucial role in the growth of the biscuits market in Asia Pacific. These modern retail formats provide better shelf space, visibility, and distribution networks for biscuit products, making them easily accessible to consumers.
Europe is also witnessing significant growth in recent years due to the increasing number of players entering the market and the rising demand for convenient snacking options among individuals.
The competitive landscape of the biscuit market is characterized by the presence of numerous players, ranging from multinational corporations to regional and local manufacturers. The market is highly competitive, with companies striving to differentiate their products, expand their market reach, and capture consumer demand. Presently, companies are investing in research and development (R&D) activities to introduce new flavors, textures, packaging formats, and healthier variants of biscuits. They are also developing gluten-free, organic and natural ingredient-based, and functional biscuits with added nutritional benefits to expand their consumer base. Moreover, various key players are investing in aggressive marketing strategies to strengthen their foothold in the market. They are also engaging in mergers, acquisitions (M&As), strategic alliances and partnerships with other brands to gain access to new markets, technologies, or distribution channels.
Mondelez International acquired Chipita Global SA, one of the European leaders in croissants and baked snacks such as bagel chips, cake bars, and biscuits, to expand its current product portfolio.
Kellogg Company introduced two thinner and crispier crackers under the Club and Town House brands. The company introduced these crackers in sea salt, ranch flavor, sea salt, and black pepper.
Britannia Industries Limited has expanded its product portfolio to include healthier and premium biscuit options. They have launched products like NutriChoice and Marie Gold Heavens that cater to health-conscious consumers.