Recession-busting chocolate sales

Chocolate sales around the world have defied the recession, according to new research from Mintel.

In China and the Ukraine, chocolate confectionery sales rose 18% and 12% respectively in 2009, and Mintel predicts continued growth through to 2013.

Other countries have also seen chocolate bars, bags and boxes flying off the shelves, albeit at lower rates. Brits drove their chocolate market up 5.9% this year, while Americans purchased 2.6% more chocolate than in 2008. Argentinean sales rose 1.8% from 2008, while in Belgium, sales increased by 3.2%.

“It’s clear that despite economic trouble this year, the world’s chocolate lovers didn’t deviate from their favourite treat, says Marcia Mogelonsky, global food and drink analyst at Mintel.“Chocolate is a small, affordable indulgence for shoppers who are cutting back on spending elsewhere. Even in countries not known for chocolate consumption, sales are on the rise.