Europe Soup Market Research Report

Europe Soup Market Size and Share:

The Europe soup market size was valued at USD 3 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach a projected revenue of USD 3.8 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 2.8% from 2025-2033. The market is driven by the growing demand for convenient, ready-to-eat food options, fueled by busy lifestyles and urbanization. Additionally, advancements in e-commerce and sustainable packaging have made soups more accessible and appealing, further supporting market growth and diversification across Europe.

The market in Europe is propelled by growing customer desire for quick-to-prepare and consumable food items. The increasingly hectic lifestyles and growing urbanization are leading to a preference for quick meal options that do not compromise nutritional value. Thus, this is positively influencing the Europe soup market share. Along with this, the rising awareness of health and wellness is further influencing the market, with consumers opting for soups enriched with natural ingredients, reduced sodium, and added vitamins. Moreover, innovations in packaging, such as single-serve options and sustainable materials, also contribute to the market's growth by enhancing convenience and aligning with environmentally conscious consumer values.

In addition, the emerging trend of premiumization and gourmet offerings in the soup market is significantly supporting the market. Consumers are increasingly seeking unique flavors and high-quality ingredients, driving demand for premium and organic soup products. The expansion of plant-based diets is also influencing the popularity of vegan and vegetarian soups positively, catering to the preferences of a diverse consumer base. On 27^th June 2024, Denmark decided to update its dietary recommendations, cutting meat servings by half weekly portions and introduced a €97 Million Action Plan for Plant-Based Foods in order to promote sustainable diets and a green economy. Since these actions along with a newly introduced carbon tax from 2030 onwards on cattle emissions will benefit public health and mitigate climate change, the government considers this a precedent to be followed by Europe. Additionally, advancements in e-commerce and online food delivery services have made soups more accessible, offering an array of choices and promotional deals that attract consumers. These trends collectively support robust Europe soup market growth.

Europe Soup Market Trends:

Rising Demand for Plant-Based and Vegan Soups

The growing adoption of plant-based diets is significantly influencing the soup market in Europe. Along with this, consumers are increasingly seeking vegetarian and vegan alternatives that align with their ethical, environmental, and health-conscious lifestyles. Soup manufacturers are responding by introducing innovative recipes featuring lentils, chickpeas, and plant-based proteins. On 13^th September 2024, Novameat, based in Barcelona, secured a $19.2 Million in Series A funding to scale its patented 3D texture-building technology for soy-free plant-based meats such as its Shredded Nova-beef. The B2B market specialist partners with the foodservice providers across Europe, from hotels and distributors in Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, and the U.K., while continuing to expand its collaborations with leading food manufacturers. This trend is further bolstered by the rising interest in flexitarian diets, where consumers reduce meat consumption. Plant-based soups also appeal to those with dietary restrictions, broadening their market reach and driving the overall Europe soup market demand.

Premiumization and Gourmet Offerings

Premium and gourmet soup options are gaining traction as consumers seek high-quality and indulgent products. European shoppers are increasingly drawn to soups with exotic flavors, artisanal recipes, and organic ingredients. According to industry reports, the Europe organic food market size reached USD 57.5 Billion in ​2024​. The market is expected to reach USD 132.2 Billion by ​2033​, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 9.7% during 2025-2033. The demand for luxury offerings, such as truffle-infused or heritage-style soups, reflects a willingness to pay more for unique experiences. Additionally, premiumization aligns with the broader trend of "eating out at home," where consumers replicate restaurant-quality meals with convenient, high-end food products. This trend elevates brand differentiation and encourages market expansion.

Focus on Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Packaging

Sustainability is a growing priority for European consumers, influencing purchasing decisions across food markets, including soups. Numerous brands are adopting eco-friendly packaging solutions, such as biodegradable containers and recyclable materials, to reduce environmental impact. On 12^th December 2024, European green-tech innovator Bpacks raised €1 Million in seed funding to scale its bark-based packaging technology. The company's composite material, compatible with existing plastics and pulp molding equipment, extends the shelf life of perishables by up to 7 days and reduces food waste by over 42%. In partnership with Serbian retailer Gomex, Bpacks is establishing a pellet manufacturing facility and streamlining its supply chain to meet growing FMCG demand across Europe. This shift aligns with regulatory measures and consumer preferences for reducing waste. Concurrently, sustainable sourcing of ingredients and transparent labeling further enhance consumer trust. By prioritizing eco-conscious practices, soup manufacturers appeal to environmentally aware buyers and also position themselves as socially responsible market leaders.

Europe Soup Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the Europe soup market, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on type, category, packaging, and distribution channel.

Analysis by Type:

• Canned/Preserved Soup
• Chilled Soup
• Dehydrated Soup
• Frozen Soup
• UHT Soup
   

Canned soups remain a popular choice due to their long shelf life, convenience, and affordability. They cater to busy consumers seeking ready-to-eat meal options. With advancements in preservation techniques, canned soups now retain more nutrients and flavors. Brands are also addressing health concerns by offering low-sodium and organic varieties. Their easy availability in supermarkets and e-commerce platforms ensures continued demand, especially among households seeking reliable pantry staples.

Chilled soups are gaining traction as a healthier and fresher alternative in the European market. These soups appeal to health-conscious consumers with their nutrient-rich profiles and minimal processing. Popular in warmer months, chilled soups including gazpacho offer refreshing and flavorful options. Their perception as gourmet and premium products adds to their appeal, with many brands introducing innovative, plant-based flavors to align with changing consumer preferences and dietary trends.

Dehydrated soups provide unparalleled convenience, especially for on-the-go lifestyles and budget-conscious consumers. With a long shelf life and easy preparation, they are ideal for quick, hassle-free meals. Recent innovations include low-fat and preservative-free options, catering to health-conscious buyers. The compact packaging also makes dehydrated soups a practical choice for travel or emergencies. Their affordability and versatility in flavor offerings ensure continued popularity across diverse consumer segments in Europe.

Analysis by Category:

• Vegetarian Soup
• Non-Vegetarian Soup
   

The vegetarian soup segment is thriving due to the increasing adoption of plant-based diets and a growing focus on health and sustainability. Consumers prefer soups made with fresh vegetables, legumes, and herbs, which provide high nutritional value and align with ethical dietary choices. This segment is further bolstered by innovations in organic and gluten-free offerings, appealing to health-conscious individuals and those with dietary restrictions, ensuring steady growth in this category.

Non-vegetarian soups remain a staple for many consumers, offering rich flavors and high protein content. Popular varieties such as chicken noodle and beef stew cater to traditional preferences while new recipes featuring exotic ingredients and international cuisines appeal to adventurous eaters. Brands are addressing health concerns by introducing low-fat and reduced-sodium options, ensuring non-vegetarian soups remain relevant to changing consumer demands for healthier and flavorful meal solutions.

Analysis by Packaging:

• Canned
• Pouched
• Others
   

Canned soup packaging remains a dominant choice due to its durability, long shelf life, and cost-effectiveness. It ensures product preservation, retaining flavors and nutritional value over extended periods. Ideal for storage and transportation, canned packaging caters to consumers seeking convenient pantry staples. Innovations in design, such as easy-open lids and recyclable materials, enhance consumer experience while addressing environmental concerns, keeping this packaging format highly relevant in the European soup market.

Pouched soup packaging is gaining popularity for its lightweight, flexible design and portability. This format offers convenience with resealable options and microwave-safe features, appealing to busy, on-the-go consumers. Additionally, pouches often use less material compared to cans, aligning with sustainability goals. Their modern aesthetic and adaptability for single-serving portions make them attractive to younger demographics, ensuring steady growth in this innovative packaging segment across the European market.

Distribution Channel Insights:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online Stores
• Others
   

Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain the primary distribution channels for soups, offering consumers a wide variety of options in one location. Their extensive shelf space allows brands to showcase multiple variants, from canned to chilled soups. With frequent promotional offers and in-store sampling, these outlets attract price-sensitive and quality-conscious buyers. The accessibility provided by these outlets render them a preferred choice for consumers seeking for a convenient shopping experience.

Convenience stores, on the other hand, cater to the consumer demographic focusing on quick meal solutions, making them a vital distribution channel for soups. These stores excel in offering ready-to-eat and single-serving options, appealing to busy professionals and travelers. Their strategic locations and extended operating hours ensure accessibility, while compact product displays encourage impulse purchases. Convenience stores continue to thrive by stocking a mix of popular and innovative soup varieties to meet diverse consumer needs.

Online stores are rapidly becoming a significant channel for soup distribution, driven by the growth of e-commerce and digital shopping trends. Consumers appreciate the convenience of browsing a vast selection, accessing product reviews, and enjoying home delivery. Many online platforms provide unique discounts and subscription options, making them an economical and attractive choice for consumers. The growing inclination toward digital payment methods, coupled with the convenience of price comparison, has established online retailers as a significant factor in the growth of soup sales.

Country Analysis:

• Germany
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Spain
• Others
   

In Germany, the soup market is primarily fueled by rising consumer interest in convenient yet premium-quality meal solutions. There is a noticeable trend toward natural and organic products, with a considerable number of consumers favoring soups that do not contain artificial additives. Traditional flavors such as potato and lentil remain popular, while innovative plant-based and gourmet varieties cater to modern tastes. A strong focus on sustainability, including eco-friendly packaging, further aligns with consumer values, ensuring steady growth in the German soup market.

In France, soups hold cultural significance, often associated with traditional, home-cooked meals. The market is characterized by a preference for fresh, premium, and artisanal offerings. Chilled soups including gazpacho are particularly popular during warmer months, while rich, hearty options dominate in colder seasons. Organic and locally sourced ingredients appeal to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers. The blending of innovation with tradition drives sustained interest and growth in the French soup market.

The United Kingdom's soup market thrives on convenience and diversity, appealing to busy urban consumers. Ready-to-eat and dehydrated soups are staples, while chilled options are gaining popularity due to their freshness and premium quality. Vegan and plant-based soups cater to the growing demand for ethical and health-focused choices. E-commerce and online delivery services play a significant role in expanding access, making soups an accessible and versatile meal option for UK consumers.

Competitive Landscape:

The Europe soup market is highly competitive, characterized by a mix of established players and emerging brands vying for consumer attention. Some of the key competition drivers are innovations in flavors, healthy-conscious formulation, and sustainability in packaging solutions. Companies have developed their products with advanced technology to offer organic, vegan, and gluten-free products according to the dietary requirement of today's consumers. Local brands also attract by highlighting the local ingredients and traditional recipes. The distribution strategies for penetration of the market involve partnerships with retail giants and e-commerce expansion. Promotional campaigns and branding efforts in quality, taste, and convenience have also been critical to differentiate offerings in a dynamic and highly competitive marketplace across Europe.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the Europe soup market with detailed profiles of all major companies.

Latest News and Developments:

• November 14, 2024: AJINOMOTO FOODS EUROPE announced the launch of their ramen soups in the concentrated format, which fills the growing order for Asian meals in Europe. Using its flavor-enhancing technology KOKUMI, launching the product standardizes the recipes of traditional Japanese food for food service. A staple in already 19 percent of European restaurant menus for Japanese food, AJINOMOTO FOODS EUROPE's cost-cutting innovations and reduced preparation times do not alter the authenticity.
• February 14, 2024: Campbell Soup sealed its $2.33 Billion acquisition of Sovos Brands, which owns Rao's Homemade, the premium Italian sauce maker, by mid-March. After FTC approval and a 30-day waiting period that closed March 11, the deal propels Campbell's expansion plan forward. Sovos Brands shares were up 1% in after-hours trading.
• September 4, 2024: Sopas Graciete has been recognized as the first company in Portugal to offer ready-to-eat refrigerated soups. To support geographic expansion while preserving the freshness and authenticity of their recipes without additives or preservatives, they adopted High Pressure Processing (HPP) technology in 2020.
• August 16, 2024: Tate & Lyle's report Enhanced Eating highlighted rising demand for convenience foods with added nutritional benefits, such as fibre-enriched soups and sauces. Over 50% of European consumers prefer such products, redefining value beyond price to include health and quality. Tate & Lyle supports this trend with innovative ingredient solutions like PROMITOR® Soluble Fibre.
• On January 5, 2025, Unilever announced the sale of two small European brands, Aiki and Unox Soups Germany, to Zwanenberg Food Group. The transaction aligns with Unilever’s strategy to focus on core global brands while enabling Zwanenberg to expand its footprint in the soup and noodle markets. Both companies aim to complete the sale in early 2025, subject to regulatory approvals.

Europe Soup 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 Europe soup market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the Europe soup market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists 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 Europe soup 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.