Europe Non-dairy Yogurt Market SIZE & SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS & FORECASTS UP TO 2030

Europe Non-dairy Yogurt Market Analysis

The Europe Non-dairy Yogurt Market size is estimated at 1.58 billion USD in 2025, and is expected to reach 3.04 billion USD by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 13.95% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The European non-dairy yogurt market is experiencing a significant transformation driven by evolving consumer preferences and lifestyle choices. The region has emerged as a global leader in plant-based yogurt innovation, with Western Europe accounting for 66% of global plant-based yogurt launches in 2021. This shift is particularly pronounced in Germany, where approximately 2.6 million people (3.2% of the population) identified as vegan in 2022. The younger demographic is increasingly embracing vegan yogurt diets, as evidenced by data showing that 12% of French people aged 18-19 years adopted vegan diets between 2021 and 2022. The market's growth is further supported by the rising flexitarian movement, with countries like Poland reporting that 24% of consumers identified as flexitarian in 2022.

The distribution landscape for non-dairy yogurt is undergoing substantial changes, with traditional and modern retail channels adapting to meet consumer demands. Supermarkets and hypermarkets continue to dominate the market, accounting for 63.5% of sales value in 2022, leveraging their extensive shelf space and ability to offer frequent promotions. These retail channels are increasingly dedicating specific sections to dairy-free yogurt products, enhancing visibility and accessibility. The omnichannel approach adopted by major retailers has revolutionized the shopping experience, combining physical store presence with digital capabilities to provide seamless customer service.

Product innovation has become a crucial differentiator in the market, with manufacturers focusing on developing new flavors and improving texture profiles to match traditional dairy yogurt. Companies are investing heavily in research and development to create products that not only meet nutritional requirements but also satisfy consumer preferences for taste and texture. The industry has seen a surge in launches of products featuring clean labels, organic ingredients, and innovative flavor combinations. Manufacturers are also exploring various vegan dairy alternatives beyond traditional soy and almond bases, including oat, coconut, and other alternative yogurt sources.

Sustainability and health considerations are increasingly influencing consumer purchasing decisions in the non-dairy yogurt market. Major retailers are expanding their plant-based offerings in response to growing environmental consciousness among consumers. The industry is witnessing a trend toward sustainable packaging solutions and transparent supply chain practices. Companies are focusing on reducing their environmental footprint through initiatives such as recyclable packaging and responsible sourcing of raw materials. The online retail channel is expected to play a crucial role in this transformation, with projections indicating growth of over 130% by 2028 compared to 2023 levels, driven by increasing consumer preference for convenient shopping options and broader product selection.

Europe Non-dairy Yogurt Market Trends

The innovations taking place in the industry, along with growing popularity of non-dairy products, are driving the consumption of non-dairy yogurt

• The per capita consumption of non-dairy yogurt in Europe is increasing. Manufacturers of plant-based yogurt are responding to the growing demand via new product innovations and launching a variety of flavors and indulgences, thus boosting consumption. Western Europe is the most dynamic region globally in terms of non-dairy yogurt launches. In 2021, with more than 360 plant-based yogurts launched, the region represented 66% of all launches globally. Germany, France, and Italy have the highest per capita consumption of non-dairy yogurt. The growing popularity of dairy alternatives, primarily in Germany, has led to the rapid growth of plant-based yogurt. More than 12 million tourists visited Germany in 2021, boosting the demand for vegan yogurt due to the growing veganism domestically and internationally.
• The UK government has set regulations restricting the products on grocery or retail shelves or any e-commerce store, along with products or drinks that are high in salt, sugar, and fat or less healthy. This factor has influenced the population to opt for non-dairy yogurt as a healthy alternative to conventional yogurt. Non-dairy probiotic products have gained importance in line with the ongoing shift toward vegan food and the steep prevalence of lactose intolerance among the European population. These factors are anticipated to increase the penetration of non-dairy yogurt, leading critical players across the region to constantly invest in R&D activities for product innovation, with claims like low/no sugar, to capture the evolving consumer trend.

OTHER KEY INDUSTRY TRENDS COVERED IN THE REPORT

Segment Analysis: Distribution Channel

Supermarkets and Hypermarkets Segment in European Non-dairy Yogurt Market

Supermarkets and hypermarkets dominate the European non-dairy yogurt market, accounting for approximately 63% of the total market value in 2024. These retail channels have established a strong position due to their extensive product selection, considerable shelf space dedicated to dairy alternatives, and frequent price promotions. Key supermarket chains like Metro Group, Ahold Delhaize, Tesco, REWE Group, Kaufland, and Aldi have developed robust distribution networks across various European locations. These stores regularly upgrade their infrastructure and distribution capabilities to accommodate the growing consumer preference for in-store purchases. The wide availability of different brands such as Ripple, Müller, Alpro, Oatly, and So Delicious, offering various flavors in plant-based yogurt, has further strengthened this segment's market position.

Online Retail Segment in European Non-dairy Yogurt Market

The online retail channel is experiencing rapid growth in the European dairy-free yogurt market, projected to expand at approximately 18% during 2024-2029. This growth is primarily driven by increasing consumer preference for online shopping, especially due to its convenience and time-saving benefits. The segment's expansion is supported by major grocery retailers' adoption of omnichannel strategies and the development of sophisticated e-commerce platforms. Online channels offer consumers access to a wide variety of yogurt options, ranging from Icelandic to coconut-based variants, effectively catering to diverse taste preferences and nutritional requirements across different age groups. The growth is particularly notable in countries like Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, where e-commerce penetration rates are significantly high.

Remaining Segments in Distribution Channel

The other distribution channels in the European dairy-free yogurt market include convenience stores, specialist retailers, and other retail formats such as warehouse clubs and gas stations. Convenience stores serve as significant points of sale, offering both frozen and unfrozen flavored alternative yogurt varieties, supported by deep freezers that help maintain product shelf life. Specialist retailers focus on premium and niche plant-based products, catering to health-conscious consumers with specific dietary preferences. The warehouse clubs and gas stations segment, while smaller in market share, plays a crucial role in providing accessibility to non-dairy yogurt products across various locations and time zones, particularly benefiting consumers seeking quick purchase options.

Europe Non-dairy Yogurt Market Geography Segment Analysis

Non-dairy Yogurt Market in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom dominates the European non-dairy yogurt market, commanding approximately 21% of the total market value in 2024. The market's robust performance can be attributed to the increasing adoption of dairy alternatives and growing awareness of lactose intolerance among consumers. The UK government's regulations restricting products high in salt, sugar, and fat on retail shelves have significantly influenced consumers to opt for healthier alternatives like vegan yogurt. The market is characterized by strong distribution networks, with supermarkets and hypermarkets serving as primary sales channels. Major retailers are expanding their plant-based sections and dedicating more shelf space to non-dairy yogurt alternatives. Consumer preferences are evolving, with millennials leading the demand for ready-to-eat, on-the-go non-dairy snacks. Packaging innovations in the form of cups, tubs, and pouches have further enhanced the market appeal. Critical players in the region are continuously investing in research and development activities, focusing on product innovations with claims like low/no sugar to capture the evolving consumer trends.

Non-dairy Yogurt Market in Spain

Spain represents one of the most dynamic markets for plant-based yogurt in Europe, projected to grow at an impressive rate of approximately 22% during 2024-2029. The market's exceptional growth is driven by the increasing awareness of veganism and rising demand for plant-based products. Spanish consumers demonstrate high familiarity with vegan yogurt, considering it a mainstream product widely available in most retail outlets. The craftsmanship factor in the plant-based foods sector has become a key differentiator in the country, coupled with growing health consciousness. Supermarkets and hypermarkets serve as the primary sales channels, with major outlets like Mercadona, Carrefour, Lidl, Dia, and Eroski maintaining a strong market presence. The market is witnessing continuous innovation in terms of flavors and textures, with manufacturers focusing on developing products that match conventional yogurt in terms of sensory properties and probiotic benefits. The industry is also adapting to consumer preferences by offering various price points, making products accessible to different consumer segments.

Non-dairy Yogurt Market in France

France maintains a strong position in the European non-dairy yogurt market, driven by the growing preference for flexitarian, vegetarian, and vegan food lifestyles. The market is characterized by increasing health consciousness, animal welfare concerns, and environmental considerations among consumers. French yogurt plays an essential role in healthy dieting, with consumers particularly attracted to products containing lactic acid bacteria for immune system stimulation and intestinal health benefits. Major manufacturers in France demonstrate strong market awareness, actively investing in almond yogurt and production facilities. The market shows particular strength among young urban consumers who believe in the health and sustainability benefits of vegan food. Distribution channels are well-developed, with both traditional retail outlets and modern trade channels effectively serving the market. The industry continues to evolve with new product launches and innovative flavoring options, catering to diverse consumer preferences.

Non-dairy Yogurt Market in Germany

Germany exhibits a robust non-dairy yogurt market characterized by strong consumer awareness and sophisticated distribution networks. The market's growth is primarily driven by health-conscious consumers and those with dietary restrictions such as lactose intolerance and milk allergies. Manufacturers in Germany are focusing on introducing a wide variety of flavors, including strawberry, mango, chocolate, and caramel, to attract customers across different age groups. The country's retail landscape, particularly the supermarket channel, plays a crucial role in market development, with major chains establishing extensive networks of stores in various locations. The increasing number of vegans and the rising popularity of plant-based diets continue to drive market expansion. German consumers show particular interest in product quality and ingredient transparency, pushing manufacturers to maintain high standards in production and packaging. The market also benefits from the country's strong position in organic food retail, with many consumers preferring organic coconut yogurt alternatives.

Non-dairy Yogurt Market in Other Countries

The non-dairy yogurt market shows varying degrees of development across other European countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, and Russia. These markets are characterized by unique consumer preferences and distribution patterns, with some countries showing a stronger preference for specific plant-based ingredients like soy yogurt or oat yogurt. The retail landscape varies significantly across these markets, with some countries dominated by traditional retail channels while others see the growing importance of modern trade formats. Consumer awareness of plant-based alternatives continues to grow across these markets, supported by increasing health consciousness and environmental concerns. Distribution networks are continuously evolving, with both domestic and international players expanding their presence. These markets also show increasing innovation in terms of product formulations and packaging, adapting to local tastes and preferences. The regulatory environment and government support for plant-based alternatives vary across these countries, influencing market development patterns.

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