Middle East

A growing population, a positive post-FIFA effect and increased tourism are facilitating growth in snacks sales in 2024. The resumption in snacking habits in the wake of the pandemic is also boosting the popularity of snacking on the go. However,…

2024 saw strong positive sales growth across snacks in Iraq despite high inflation and the rather chaotic scene on the supply side. While imported products and international brands are popular among affluent urban professionals, the majority remain…

After a couple of years of decline, total sweet spreads packaging in Saudi Arabia returned to growth in 2023. Most categories saw a rise in packaging volumes, with the exception of honey. Nevertheless, within this category, PET bottles saw growth in…

After a couple of years of decline, total sauces, dips and condiments packaging volumes in Saudi Arabia returned to growth in 2023. This was also the pattern of growth seen by mayonnaise. PET bottles continued to be the dominant pack type for…

Total processed meat and seafood packaging volumes in Saudi Arabia maintained solid growth in 2023. These products are seen as convenient, time-saving meal options, especially with the substantial increase in the number of women entering the Saudi…

Total processed fruit and vegetables packaging volumes saw growth in Saudi Arabia in 2023. Frozen processed fruit and vegetables saw a strong increase in this year, and flexible plastic was the only notable pack type used for such products, which can…

As consumers are seeking healthier and more sustainable food options, sales of plant-based dairy products increased in Saudi Arabia in 2023, as a perceived healthier alternative to traditional dairy products, which drove up the associated packaging…

Total meals and soups packaging volumes continued to rise in Saudi Arabia in 2023. Demand for ready meals surged during the pandemic as foodservice closures and fears around food delivery drove home-cooking occasions; ready meals presented a more…

Total dairy packaging volumes in Saudi Arabia continued to fall in 2023. However, drinking milk products, including milk, returned to growth in packaging volumes in this year. Milk is packaged mainly in brick liquid cartons in the country, although…

Total confectionery packaging volumes in Saudi Arabia continued to rise in 2023, although were still unable to return to anywhere near the pre-pandemic level. In Saudi Arabia, growth in packaging volumes for chocolate confectionery improved strongly…

Following a decline in packaging volumes in 2022, total baby food packaging continued to see declining volumes in Saudi Arabia in 2023. Milk formula accounts for the most significant share of packaging volumes in baby food, and continued to decline…

Sales of sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks in the United Arab Emirates are increasingly shaped by rising consumer awareness of health and wellness, leading to strong performances by fruit snacks, primarily dried fruit, and snack bars.…

Indulgence serves as the primary growth driver for sugar confectionery in the United Arab Emirates, reflecting evolving consumer preferences and lifestyles. Local consumers are inclined to treat themselves with confectionery that offers moments of…

In 2024, snacks in the United Arab Emirates is characterised by a dynamic blend of traditional indulgence and modern health-conscious trends. With a growing expatriate population and a resurgence in social gatherings, demand for premium and…

Volume sales of snacks in Lebanon increased modestly in 2024 as consumer spending recovered somewhat amidst a slight easing of the socioeconomic crisis and inbound tourism boomed. Numerous local manufacturers have benefited from the unavailability…

Vegetable chips in the United Arab Emirates are gaining traction as a popular alternative to traditional potato chips. Made from ingredients such as kale, sweet potatoes, and beets, they are typically baked or dehydrated, leading to lower fat and…

While ice cream in the United Arab Emirates has been traditionally marketed as a product to beat the heat, marketing is now shifting towards ice cream as an indulgent product to be enjoyed throughout the year. Ferrero's launch of its inaugural ice…

Demand for gum in the United Arab Emirates continues to rise, primarily driven by chewing gum. In the United Arab Emirates, where a diverse expatriate population coexists amid a bustling social landscape filled with numerous events and gatherings,…

Demand for chocolate confectionery in the United Arab Emirates continues to rise. In the local market, a rising number of health-conscious consumers are driving increasing demand for healthy snacks, significantly transforming perceptions around diet…

Sweet biscuits, snack bars and fruit snacks is set to see current value growth in 2024. The global price of sugar rose significantly in 2023, pushing up a key raw material cost for manufacturers of sweet biscuits. In May 2023, Diplomat increased the…