US Holiday Chocolate Sales: A Deep Dive Into Brands & Trends

Ever wonder which holiday truly reigns supreme in the hearts (and stomachs) of chocolate lovers? The data reveals a clear winner, showcasing the immense power of seasonal cravings and the enduring appeal of chocolate across different celebrations.

Here's a glimpse into the U.S. retail sales of chocolate, broken down by holiday, as of February 16, 2018: Easter leads the pack with a staggering $935 million in sales. Christmas follows with a substantial $776 million. Valentine's Day accounts for $524 million, while Halloween sees $383 million in chocolate purchases. Other holidays collectively contribute $12 million. These figures highlight the significant role chocolate plays in American holiday traditions, underscoring its importance to the confectionery industry.

Holiday U.S. Retail Sales (Millions)
Easter $935
Christmas $776
Valentine's Day $524
Halloween $383
Other Holidays $12

Ultimately, the competition for holiday candy supremacy hinges on one crucial factor: consumer preferences. Brands must constantly innovate and adapt to evolving tastes to capture the hearts and wallets of candy enthusiasts. The American candy market is a powerhouse, generating over $35 billion annually. This massive figure underscores the economic significance of the confectionery industry and the powerful influence popular American candy brands wield over consumer choices.

The most popular brands of chocolate and candy bars in the U.S. are those that consistently deliver quality, innovation, and a strong emotional connection with consumers. Classic favorites stand alongside contemporary brands, each vying for a piece of this lucrative market. The latest [update 2025] list of the top 12 American candy brands mirrors the ongoing shifts and transformations within the industry.

Mars, Incorporated stands as one of Americas most beloved chocolate companies. Its story began in 1911, with the very first Mars product line emerging in 1932. The creation of the iconic Mars bar propelled the company to widespread recognition as one of the best in the U.S. The smell of chocolate itself can bring smiles and happiness to anyones face, reinforcing its powerful sensory appeal. Today, chocolate is widely regarded as one of the most cherished and appreciated gifts, a symbol of affection and indulgence.

People of all ages, from children to parents, adore chocolates and other sweets. The sheer variety of chocolates and sweets available in every country across the world speaks to the universal appeal of these treats. This December, the National Confectioners Association is likely to report that three-quarters of Americans will gift sweet treats this holiday season, a testament to their enduring popularity.

On the other side of the Atlantic, Ritter Sport, a German company, was founded in Waldenbuch in 1912. By 1926, the company employed 80 people. Clara Ritter spearheaded this family-run business, driven by her vision to design a chocolate bar that could conveniently fit into the pocket of a sports jacket hence the name, Ritter Sport. The company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to innovation and a robust marketing strategy, which have collectively fostered strong brand recognition worldwide. Chocolate lovers worldwide also acknowledge Cadburys Cocoa Life program, wherein the company commits to using 100% sustainably sourced cocoa in its Cadbury Dairy Milk products, a pledge they aim to extend to all of their offerings.

Candy, also known as sweets or lollies, is essentially a confection characterized by sugar as its primary component. This category, often called sugar confectionery, encompasses any sweet confection, including chocolate, chewing gum, and sugar candy. When it comes to holiday candy, the array of choices is practically limitless, promising to satisfy any sweet craving. As such, exploring the leading companies in the holiday candy sector reveals the forces that drive consumer behavior.

Hersheys has been a household name for over a century. Milton S. Hershey founded the company in 1894. Perfetti Van Melle is a Dutch company formed in 2001 through the merger of Italian candy company Perfetti and Dutch candy company Van Melle. These corporate entities, alongside many others, are at the forefront of shaping the sweet landscape.

A customer who values supporting local businesses and is familiar with a local brand might choose that companys bar, even if it means paying an extra $.50. At the heart of these companies, you often find families of candy makers, working alongside talented staff of artisan chocolatiers, some with over 100 years of combined experience. Andre's, for example, is a Swiss chocolatier based in Kansas City, Missouri. As riddley says, and while they sent me a bunch of chocolates, i feel their assorted chocolates showcase the brand really well. there's a card detailing each chocolate, too, so you can match up the pictures to the box. Every milk or dark chocolate candy in this box was a delight.

Simply Chocolate offers a wide selection of chocolate delivery options, including truffles and dipped chocolate treats. Sending chocolate gifts to friends and family is a simple way to show your care. Elite candy, manufactured by the Strauss Group, features a diverse range of candies, including gummies, jelly candy, and chocolate. Meanwhile, Bourbon, a Japanese company (despite sharing a name with a type of alcohol), produces chocolate and other sweets, including chocolate biscuits. These companies cater to diverse consumer preferences, ensuring that there is a sweet treat for every palate.

Here you will find the treats that delighted you as a child and the favorites that your children have come to adore and dream about like visions of sugar plums. Toms Group is a major confectionery company founded in 1924 and located in the Scandinavian region. As the largest chocolate company in Denmark, it manufactures a variety of chocolates and candies. It has also merged with other candy-making companies, including Pingvin Lakrids, Anthon Berg, and Galle Jensen.

Statistic Data
Premium Statistic Sales growth of seasonal candy in the U.S., 2021, by holiday & type
Basic Statistic U.S. Market share of leading chocolate companies 2022
Candy Brands Snack History

Candy Brands Snack History

American Chocolate Bar Brands

American Chocolate Bar Brands

Christmas Hershey Kisses

Christmas Hershey Kisses

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