Market Trends of Spain Snack Bar Industry
Rise in Demand for Energy Bars due to an Increase in Active Lifestyles Boosting Market Growth
With the increasing awareness of the importance of physical activity and exercise, the Spanish population is adopting active lifestyles. The growing popularity of sports and fitness activities in Spain has fueled the demand for energy bars among athletes, gym-goers, and sports enthusiasts. Energy bars are perceived as convenient and nutritious snacks that provide a quick boost of energy, making them popular among health-conscious individuals, athletes, and fitness enthusiasts. Energy bars are often consumed as pre-workout snacks to provide sustained energy during exercise, as well as post-workout snacks to support muscle recovery and replenish glycogen stores.
The rising health awareness among individuals and the growing popularity of sports activities such as hiking, cycling, aerobics, swimming, and running, are further boosting the growth of energy bars. According to data from WHO, in 2022, around 77% of the male population and 69% of the female population aged above 18 years are physically active in Spain. Moreover, in the energy/nutrition bar category, companies are developing new flavor and ingredient introductions, along with improvements in taste and mouthfeel, impacting segmental revenue. The manufacturing companies also offer products with functional ingredients. For instance, the brand Level Up offers protein and carbohydrate-based energy bars enriched with Taurine and Vitamin B3.
Supermarkets Dominate the Retail Landscape
Supermarkets and hypermarkets are the main distribution channels for snack bars due to their wide reach and convenience for consumers. These channels benefit from the growing organized retail industry, which enhances product visibility and accessibility. Additionally, attractive packaging and in-store promotions are key factors in driving sales in supermarkets and hypermarkets.
Supermarkets are increasing their focus on sustainability. Spanish consumers are increasingly concerned about sustainable development and their impact on the environment. The demand for organic snacking options is increasing due to the increase in health consciousness among consumers and the development of health issues resulting from hectic lifestyles. Hence, supermarkets are offering a wide range of snack bars, including organic, clean-label snack bars.
Supermarkets are dedicating more space to ready-to-eat and prepared foods, including snack bars, in their stores. This trend has been gaining traction throughout Spain, particularly in big cities, as consumers are more inclined toward convenient meals. Supermarkets remain a dominant and critical retail avenue for snack bars in Spain, catering to evolving consumer preferences and supporting the sustained growth of this market segment.
