The bakery sector is undergoing a major transformation with the explosion of snacking. This evolution responds to the new consumption patterns of the French and represents a significant opportunity for artisan bakers. Discover how snacking is revolutionizing the bakery market and what are the essential products to succeed in this segment.
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The Explosion of Snacking in Bakeries: An Unavoidable Phenomenon
Snacking in bakeries is emerging as a major growth driver for the sector. The numbers speak for themselves: in 2024, this segment accounts for 32% of the revenue of artisan bakeries. This growth is explained in particular by the evolution of eating habits, with 68% of French people regularly eating lunch outside their homes.
The Reasons Behind the Success of Snacking
The acceleration of modern lifestyles is profoundly transforming our eating habits. The lunch break now lasts only 35 minutes on average, pushing consumers towards quick but quality solutions. Snacking in bakeries perfectly meets this demand, combining convenience and artisanal quality.
The success of snacking is reflected in the numbers: the average ticket reaches €7.80, more than double the traditional bakery purchases (€3.20). This significant difference demonstrates that consumers are willing to invest in a premium snacking offer that combines quality and convenience.
The Factors Driving the Evolution of Snacking in Bakeries
The acceleration of modern lifestyles is deeply transforming our eating habits. The reduction of the lunch break, now limited to 35 minutes on average, naturally pushes consumers towards practical and quick solutions. This evolution is accompanied by a growing demand for portable meals, adapted to an increasingly mobile lifestyle. Snacking in bakeries perfectly meets these new needs, offering practical solutions without compromising on quality.
Consumer expectations have also significantly evolved in recent years. While speed is essential, it should not come at the expense of quality. Customers maintain high standards regarding the freshness and taste of products. The search for healthy and balanced products is becoming a major trend, particularly in the snacking sector. Consumers are increasingly sensitive to homemade products, guaranteeing transparency and authenticity. However, the price-quality ratio remains a determining factor in their choices.
The Must-Have Snacking Products to Offer
The three-tier club sandwich reigns supreme in the snacking offer. Its popularity is explained by its generosity and filling nature. Consumers particularly appreciate its traditional composition combining chicken, bacon, egg, tomato, and lettuce. This flagship product generates a 65% margin and often represents 30% of snacking sales.
The Caesar salad is the second must-have in bakery snacking. Popular for its balance between freshness and indulgence, it appeals to a health-conscious clientele while still seeking flavor. Its margin reaches 70%, and it represents 25% of snacking sales.
The revisited croque-monsieur stands out as the ultimate hot solution. Artisanal versions, using quality bread and premium ingredients, help differentiate from industrial offers. This product generates a 75% margin and accounts for 20% of snacking sales thanks to its comforting nature.
The individual quiche perfectly complements the snacking offer. Its versatility allows for varying recipes according to seasons and trends. Innovative bakers offer vegetarian versions or original recipes that appeal to a clientele seeking novelty. The margin on this product reaches 68%.
Conclusion and Perspectives
Snacking in bakeries continues to grow with an estimated annual growth of 4.5% until 2026. Artisan bakers who can offer a quality snacking offer, focusing on these must-have products while innovating, will benefit the most from this market evolution.
