Sweets: Chocolate products significantly more expensive than a year ago

According to an analysis, customers in Germany currently have to pay significantly higher prices for chocolate than a year ago. Depending on the brand and size, chocolate Santas are up to 50 percent more expensive, gingerbread hearts up to 32 percent, dominoes 12 percent. This is shown by an evaluation of the price comparison portal Smhaggle for the German Press Agency.

Other items are also affected. A whole milk or dark chocolate bar costs up to 17 percent more, a 10-pack of children’s chocolate bars almost 8 percent. Ritter Sport recently increased its prices. For the Alpine milk bar, 1.89 euros will be charged instead of 1.49 euros – an increase of almost 27 percent.

High cocoa price responsible

It was already apparent at the beginning of 2024 that chocolate would become more expensive. Some manufacturers announced this at the time. The cause is poor harvests and a shortage of supplies in important cocoa-growing countries as a result of drought, heavy rain and plant diseases. The daily price for cocoa determined by the International Cocoa Organization (ICCO) rose to a record value of well over 10,000 euros per ton in April. Since then it has fallen slightly again, but remains high.

According to the Federal Statistical Office, the consumer price for a bar of chocolate in October this year was 9.1 percent higher than in the same month last year. Bars or other chocolate products cost 7.6 percent more, chocolates 6 percent, nougat-based spread 6.6 percent.

Chocolate had already become more expensive in previous years. However, according to the confectionery association, manufacturers actually recorded growing consumption. Per capita consumption in Germany has even increased – with small fluctuations – from a good 9 kilos in 2018 to just under 9.9 kilos in 2023.