Cakes and Pastries Market

Cakes and Pastries Market Size and Share:

The global cakes and pastries market size was valued at USD 146.2 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 195.3 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 3.3% during 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, due to the growing popularity of coffee shops or cafes as social gathering spots, the proliferation of baking shows on television and online platforms across the globe, and the introduction of health-conscious options are some of the major factors propelling the market.

The rising influence of fast-paced lifestyles and evolving consumer tastes is causing a major impact on the cakes and pastries market worldwide. Urbanization and hectic daily routines have increased the demand for convenient and ready-to-eat (RTE) bakery products. With growing disposable income, consumers are more willing to experiment with premium offerings, including organic and gourmet varieties, thus boosting market growth. For instance, in September 2024 alone, the disposable personal income of American consumers increased to 21855.80 USD billion from 21798.30 USD billion of the previous month. The proliferation of modern retail outlets and online platforms is also offering a strong distribution network for cakes and pastries. Supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores are seen as crucial points of sale that offer a wide range of options.

United States has emerged as a key market disruptor in this industry owing to the rise of e-commerce platforms has allowed customers to conveniently purchase fresh bakery products with a few clicks. Based on industry reports, it has been revealed that e-commerce sales in September 2024 accounted for 15.6 percent of total sales in the country, showcasing a shifting consumer demand for online products. Alongside this, the U.S. baked goods eCommerce market is said to reach US$1,989.0 million by the end of 2024. Online platforms have made customization options possible for celebratory cakes, fostering customer engagement. Discounts, promotional offers, and quick delivery services are also being offered by these platforms to contribute to a surge in demand.

Cakes and Pastries Market Trends:

Global Urbanization and Changing Lifestyle

One significant market driver for cakes and pastries is rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles across the globe. According to the UN, 55% of the global population currently resides in urban areas, a figure that is projected to rise to 68% by 2050. As urban areas expand, so do the number of supermarkets, bakeries, and convenience stores that offer a wide range of cakes and pastries. With the hustle and bustle of city life, consumers are seeking quick, convenient, and tasty options for their meals and snacks. Cakes and pastries, often pre-packaged and ready to eat (RTE), perfectly fit into this urban lifestyle. In addition, the cultural shift towards dining out and trying new foods has also boosted the demand for cakes and pastries. Bakery cafes, patisseries, and dessert bars showcasing innovative and varied offerings have become popular meeting spots, leading to increased consumption.

Innovation and Product Differentiation

Another substantial market driver for cakes and pastries is the continuous innovation and product differentiation by manufacturers. Along with this, producers are constantly experimenting with flavors, textures, and ingredients, creating new products that appeal to diverse tastes. In addition to this, the introduction of health-conscious options, such as gluten-free, sugar-free, or vegan cakes and pastries, has expanded the consumer base to include those with dietary restrictions or preferences. Mindshare reports that 66% of the global population is now more focused on their health than before COVID-19, with about 4 in 10 consumers prioritizing saving money, eating well, and exercising regularly to manage their well-being. Similarly, fusion desserts that combine elements from different cuisines have become a significant trend. These continuous innovations keep the cakes and pastries market dynamic and exciting, which is acting as another growth-inducing factor.

Marketing and Digital Influence

The power of marketing and the influence of digital media are significant market drivers for cakes and pastries. In confluence with this, businesses utilize attractive packaging, in-store promotions, and advertising campaigns to attract consumers, further positively influencing the market. Packaging of the World reports that 30% of businesses have noted a significant revenue boost after improving their packaging. In the digital era, social media platforms are used extensively for promotional activities. Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube are full of mouth-watering images and videos of cakes and pastries, encouraging users to try them. Therefore, it is significantly contributing to the market. Moreover, influencers and celebrity chefs also contribute to this trend by sharing recipes, reviewing products, and endorsing brands. This extensive marketing and digital influence have effectively impacted the market.

Cakes and Pastries Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global cakes and pastries market, along with forecast at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on product, type, sector, and distribution channel.

Analysis by Product:

• Artisanal Bakery Products 
• In-store Bakery Products
   

In-store bakery products stand as the largest component in the market and are experiencing significant growth, driven by the allure of freshly baked, on-premises goods. Customers are drawn to the sensory experience of an in-store bakery, where the aroma, sight, and taste of fresh products contribute to their appeal. The ability to customize orders, such as cakes for special occasions, also attracts consumers. Another driver is the perception of quality and authenticity associated with in-store bakery items. Consumers often equate the freshness of in-store baked goods with higher quality and fewer preservatives, which aligns with a growing trend towards healthier, cleaner food options. Additionally, the convenience factor of being able to buy baked goods while doing regular grocery shopping cannot be overlooked. This combination of freshness, perceived quality, customization, and convenience propels the market for in-store bakery products in the cakes and pastries industry.

Analysis by Type:

• Cakes
• Frozen Cakes & Pastries
• Pastries
• Sweet Pies
   

The cakes segment is propelled by the essential role that cakes play in celebrations and festivities around the world, including birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and numerous cultural and religious holidays. This ensures a consistent demand for cakes year-round. In addition, the diversification and innovation in cake flavors, forms, and decorating styles cater to a wide range of consumer tastes, driving further interest and demand. In addition, the rise of specialty diets has also influenced this market, with a growing demand for vegan, gluten-free, and sugar-free cakes expanding the consumer base. Another key driver is the influence of digital media and television baking shows that inspire consumers to try or make elaborate cakes, driving both direct consumption and the home-baking trend. Moreover, the advent of online cake delivery services has made access to a wide variety of cakes easy and convenient, further driving market growth for cakes.

Analysis by Sector:

• Food Service
• Retail
   

The food service sector within the cakes and pastries industry is experiencing growth driven by the emerging trend towards dining out or ordering in, facilitated by the rise of online food delivery platforms. These platforms have increased accessibility to a wide variety of cakes and pastries from various food service establishments, driving consumer demand. Another driver is the growth in the café culture and casual dining sector, where cakes and pastries form an integral part of the menu offerings. Catering services, which provide baked goods for events and functions, are also contributing to the growth in the food service sector. Additionally, innovation and differentiation in menu offerings, with unique and diverse cakes and pastries, help establishments attract new customers and retain regular ones. In confluence with this, the rise of health and wellness trends has led to the inclusion of healthier, diet-specific options in the menu, broadening the potential customer base.

Analysis by Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Specialist Retailers
• Artisanal Bakeries
• Online Stores
• Others
   

The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment is driven by the convenience these establishments offer. They allow consumers to purchase a wide range of goods, including cakes and pastries, in one location, saving time and effort. Numerous supermarkets and hypermarkets also have in-store bakeries, which provide fresh, daily-made items, enhancing the appeal to consumers. Additionally, the diversity of options available at these stores, catering to various tastes and dietary needs, is a significant driver. They offer products ranging from basic cakes and pastries to more premium, specialty options, including organic, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives. Another key driver is the strategic product placement and attractive promotional activities in these stores, which encourage impulse purchases. Moreover, the advent of online grocery shopping has further enhanced accessibility, allowing customers to browse and purchase bakery products at their convenience, driving market growth in the supermarket and hypermarket sectors of the cakes and pastries industry.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
• Europe
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa
   

In 2024, Asia Pacific has the largest market share. The cakes and pastry market is majorly dominated by the Asia Pacific region due to modern-day factors like the population density, rapid urbanization, and diversifying people. The other major contributors to this dominance are China, India, and Japan's possession of individuals with increasing disposable income and a consequent rising degree of adoption of bakery habits that have western origin. The soaring adoption of celebratory cakes for all types of events, from weddings to birthdays, coupled with rising demand for ready-to-eat snacks is contributing to a significant scaling up of the market. Economically viable bakery products backed by an ever-increasing existing network of retail chains and e-commerce propagation that assure accessibility of products to the public is fueling the market expansion. Further innovations pushed forward by the bakery that include local flavors and ingredients such as matcha and red bean, which resonate with traditional palettes but meld with modern tastes are also contributing factors. This combination of old and new approaches makes Asia Pacific the largest and fastest growing segment in the world for cakes and pastries.

Key Regional Takeaways:

North America Cakes and Pastries Market Analysis

The cakes and pastries market in North America is buoyed by the strong demand for premium and novel baked goods, with a culture promoting indulgence in frequent celebrations. The U.S. and Canada, as heavy consumers of cakes for events such as birthdays, weddings, and holidays, are the front-runners in revenue generation. With the rise in health-conscious consumers, manufacturers are now introducing gluten-free, low-sugar, and vegan offerings, which have gained acceptance among individuals. The increasing number of artisanal bakeries and specialty stores serving unique flavors and custom orders also cater to changes in tastes and preferences. A strong e-commerce infrastructure in the area complements the market as well, since it provides access to fresh baked products easily and quickly. As disposable income increases and there is a shift toward quality confectionery items, North America remains a big contributor to the market growth.

United States Cakes and Pastries Market Analysis

The cakes and pastries market in the United States is largely stimulated by increasing consumer demand for premium, artisanal, and indulgent bakery offerings. Consumers are looking for high quality, specialty cakes, and sweet confections with interesting flavours, textures and ingredients. This trend has been fueled by rising disposable income, especially amongst millennials who are not afraid to invest in experiences rather than saving money. Also, there is a growing amount of healthier products e.g., gluten-free, sugar-free, organic products. According to PubMed Central, 65% of the US population want to eat gluten-free food to diet healthier and 27% want to eat gluten-free food for weight loss. This growing demand for a variety of gluten-free products is having an effect on product development in the market. In addition, the market has been extended by the emergence of E-commerce and online delivery services, such that cakes and pastries are more accessible both from local producers and foreign companies. The presence of bakeries (both in the mall format and the artisan/small shops with particular local products) promotes the consumer involvement by introducing new products like the festive/personalized cake. In addition, seasonal festivals (e.g., holidays, birthdays, marriage) keep some demand and by catering cakes and pies as a round-year market, this demand is satisfied. It has also been contributed by the popularity of cakes and pastries among the urban population due to the influence of social media on visually attractive product display.

Asia Pacific Cakes and Pastries Market Analysis

The Asia-Pacific market for cakes and pastries is currently seeing rapid expansion driven by urbanization, increasing disposable incomes and changing consumption patterns. According to UN-Habitat, the Asian urban population is projected to increase by 50%, and an additional 1.2 Billion urbanites by 2050, boosting the demand for high-class cakes and pastries. With an increase in demand for indulgent, international-style baked goods among urban consumers, there is renewed interest in novel products that combine classic tastes and contemporary aesthetics. Moreover, health-oriented consumers, in particular, are fueling demand for gluten-free, low-sugar, and organic products. Further facilitating accessibility to an array of bakery products has been the growth of modern distribution channels, including supermarkets and electronic commerce sites. The trend of western-style cakes in festive and special events and the effect of social media marketing and celebrity chefs also help to drive market expansion in the area.

Europe Cakes and Pastries Market Analysis

The cakes and pastries market in Europe is driven by a combination of traditional preferences and modern consumer trends. Baking is a long standing tradition in the region and cakes and pastries are part of everyone's daily life and celebrations. Nevertheless, in recent years the trend has moved towards healthier ingredients-low sugar, gluten free, organic etc. due to growing awareness on health by the consumers. World Health Organization (WHO) reported that free sugar consumption differs widely within Europe, with an adult proportion of 7-8 of total energy (Hungary and Norway) and 16-17 in Spain and the UK of the total free sugar intake. Intake is also greater in children with values from 12% in Denmark, Slovenia and Sweden, to almost 25% in Portugal. There are also rural-urban differences, for example, in South Africa, rural communities have a sugar intake of 7.5%, compared to 10.3% in urban areas. There is this increasing concern with sugar intake and so this fuels the innovation in sugar substitutes and cakes and pastries are becoming more appealing for health-conscious people. Furthermore, consumption of artisan and high-quality baked goods is growing as people want higher quality ingredients locally available to them. The rising trend of veganism and plant-based diets is a major factor in driving market expansion.

Latin America Cakes and Pastries Market Analysis

The cakes and pastries market in Latin America is mainly fueled by urban growth, income growth, and a trend toward premium baked goods. According to UNDESA data from 2018, an 81.2% of LJPs in Latin America and the Caribbean are living in urbanized, thus contributing to the desire for high-quality cakes and pastries in the cities. Since consumers are trendsetting towards international food trends, it is also seen toward comfort food, namely, indulgent, Western-type baked goods. Furthermore, health-oriented consumers are leading the demand trend of gluten-free and sugar-free products. Market accessibility is enhanced by the retail channels' expansion, including supermarkets and electronic commerce.

Middle East and Africa Cakes and Pastries Market Analysis

The cakes and pastries market in the Middle East and Africa is expanding due to increases in disposable incomes, urbanization, and demand for better quality baked goods. According to UN-Habitat, 60% of the population in the Arab region already lives in cities by 2016, and is predicted to increase to 70% by 2050. This urbanization is driving an increase in demand for gourmet, indulgent cakes and bakery items, especially in urban areas. Furthermore, the increase in online shopping and delivery service usage is extending the market scale. Cultural activities and celebrations also fuel demand for cakes and pastries throughout the region.

Competitive Landscape:

To keep their competitive advantage, major market participants are concentrating on innovation, strategic alliances, and growth. As customer preferences change, businesses are responding by launching high-end goods, healthier choices, and distinctive flavors. Their dedication to catering to the increasing number of health-conscious consumers is seen by the addition of low-calorie, vegan, and gluten-free items to their portfolios. While company investments in automation and cutting-edge baking technology are increasing production efficiency and uniformity, their strategic partnerships with merchants and e-commerce platforms are expanding product visibility and accessibility. Furthermore, by tailoring their products to local tastes and preferences, several companies are increasing their footprint in rapidly growing regions. Influencer partnerships and social media marketing are also being utilized more often to increase brand loyalty and attract younger customers.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the cakes and pastries market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• Finsbury
• Flowers Foods
• Grupo Bimbo
• American Baking Company
• Britannia
• Euro Cakes
• Hostess Brands
• McKee Foods
• Yamazaki Baking
• Aryzta
• Mulino Bianco
• Edeka
• Edwards Cake & Candy Supplies
• BreadTalk Group Limited
   

Latest News and Developments:

• September 2024:  Mondelēz International purchased a controlling interest in Evirth, one of the market leaders in the Chinese bakery industry, in order to accelerate growth in the sector. The financial terms were not disclosed. Mondelēz had already committed capital to Evirth for the production of frozen-to-chilled cakes with brands like Oreo and Philadelphia.
• May 2024: The launch of Sara Lee Frozen Bakery's new Sara Lee® Strawberry Angel Food Cake (Foodservice) portfolio. This cholesterol-free, fat-free sponge is recommended for health personnel and restaurants and can be used as a dessert such as strawberry shortcake. Fully baked cakes are served easily with six 22oz cakes in a case.
• April 2024: Rich Products introduced Funfetti Ice Cream Cake, a freshmember of its I Love Ice Cream Cakes line up. Cakes were sold in bakery freezer cases at ShopRite, Publix, etc., and independent grocery stores throughout the United States with distribution weekly expanding.
• January 2024: Gâteaux introduced a line of miniature cakes, providing miniature versions of French pâtisserie flavors for home kitchens. The company wanted to maintain a balance of convenience, excellent flavour, and a clean label with premium frozen cakes. It solved an unmet market need for affordable, high-quality ingredients in frozen desserts, providing a more modern alternative without compromising in taste or ease of preparation.
• February 2023: Hostess Brands launched Hostess Kazbars, a candy-bar-inspired snack cake with chocolate cake, Crème, candy crunch, and/or caramel and/or chocolate fudge, covered with a chocolate coating. Available with Chocolate Caramel and triple chocolate flavors, Kazbars were sold as single bars (2.75-ounces) and mini bars (10-ounces).
   

Cakes and Pastries Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the cakes and pastries market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global cakes and pastries market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the cakes and pastries industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.