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Top 7 rising bakery trends to follow in 2024 1. BAKERY AS AN ART FORM : Enjoy it with the eyes In a climate where inflation is a major concern for consumers, there has been a significant rise in the popularity of high-quality and premium bakery products on social media. Despite booming sales of hard discount and private label items, appreciation for quality remains unshaken, with 59% of American consumers saying they are willing to pay more for premium products rather than opt for average quality2. It’s also thanks to the fame of artisan bakers such as Cédric Grolet (9,7M followers on Instagram) and Amaury Guichon (15M followers on Instagram), who have become real influencers by elevating bakery to the level of a true work of art. While pleasure remains essential, with 83% of consumers putting taste first, aesthetics are also an essential criteria. Indeed, 59% of consumers recognize that a visually appealing presentation improves overall taste perception3. This nuanced shift underlines the changing dynamics within the bakery industry, where the balance between quality and aesthetic appeal is becoming increasingly central to consumer preferences. Why follow this trend? Differentiate yourself from the competition: focus on quality and aesthetics to not only enhance the perceived value of products, but also strengthen brand reputation and image. In today’s competitive marketplace, where consumers are increasingly demanding and value-driven, adopting these trends can build customer loyalty, attract new customers and, ultimately, contribute to the long-term success of the business. 2. CUSTOMIZATION : Make it special Today’s bakeries offer a multitude of creative possibilities, transforming their products into personalized canvas that go beyond simple consumption. Whether it’s printing a distinctive logo to reinforce brand recognition, creating intricate designs that showcase artisan skills, or integrating original messages, the bakery experience is becoming increasingly interactive and tailored to individual preferences. This gives customers the opportunity to celebrate the important moments in their lives, such as special occasions (Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s Day…), birthdays and even wedding proposals. The personalized bakery experience has become a powerful tool for expression, connection and storytelling in the ever-expanding social media arena. If customization can be very sophisticated, it can also be made from simple bakery products or best sellers present in your offer without specific equipment or skills in just a few minutes. 3. XL SIZE : Create a giant buzz A current trend dominating social media is the surge in popularity of oversized cake, pastries and viennoiseries. In savory form, there are also giant sandwiches intended for sharing (or not). This phenomenon reached has peaked on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, where influencers and anonymous users shared photos and videos sparking a widespread excitement. Although it’s a practice of the younger generations, also known as “gen z”, it being to everyone. For instance, renowned pastry chef Philippe Conticini has introduced XXL croissants and pains au chocolat, further fueling the trend. The appeal of these oversized bakery creations extends beyond their striking visual appearance; they offer a unique social experience,  challenging individuals to eat them whole or encouraging sharing in common. These pastries provide consumers with a novel way to manage costs and portion sizes by splitting the bill among friends or family, transforming the consumption of these larger-than-life delights into not just a culinary adventure but also a financially savvy group experience. 4. UPCYCLING FEVER : Make new from existing The upcycling food trend has gained significant momentum in response to the alarming levels of food waste in Europe, which amount to approximately 58 million tons, equating to roughly 10% of total production. As consumers become increasingly aware of this issue, there has been a notable surge in interest in ways to repurpose and recycle food items, as evidenced by the remarkable 173% increase in mentions of “reuse & recycle” on social media in 2023, generating over 5 million interactions1. Viral upcycling recipes like crepes made from stale bread, croissant pudding, and French toast croissants creatively repurpose leftovers into delicious dishes. These recipes offer both practical solutions to food waste and inspire culinary creativity, with social media platforms serving as hubs for sharing innovative ideas and promoting sustainable consumption practices. Discover our No Waste All Taste recipes 5. TRAVEL WITH FOOD : Inspiration from around the world The culinary landscape is undergoing a vibrant transformation, fueled by a fervent interest in global gastronomy. In the realm of Italian cuisine, there has been a notable surge in popularity, with mentions of focaccia up 93% compared to 2022. Additionally, pinsa, a traditional Roman flatbread, saw a remarkable increase of 53% in mentions and 61% in interactions, reflecting a growing fascination with authentic Italian flavors. Across the Atlantic, the United States pastry scene is experiencing a renaissance of its own, marked by a surge in interactions with donut products, which rose by an impressive 115% compared to the previous year. Moreover, the hashtag #brownies witnessed a resurgence in 2023, with mentions increasing by 107% compared to 2022, showcasing a renewed appreciation for classic American desserts1. Looking ahead, the Kerry Group anticipates a burgeoning interest in Lebanese, Polish, Greek, and Japanese cuisines, among others, within the European Union. These culinary traditions promise to introduce new flavours and techniques, further enriching the culinary tapestry of the region. In conclusion, incorporating inspiration from international cuisine into your menu offers a captivating escape beyond mere sustenance for your customers. Embracing the diverse flavours and culinary heritage from around the world not only enhances the dining experience but also satisfies the growing appetite for exploration and discovery among discerning food enthusiasts. Find recipe inspiration with an Italian flavour 6. CROISSANT 2.0 : One product and countless ways to enjoy it – It never stops reinventing itself The croissant, an icon of French pastry, continues to captivate not only with its classic flakiness and delicious taste but also with its endless potential for reinvention. While delightful on its own, the croissant has become a canvas for culinary creativity. From croissant ice-cream concoctions by French artisan baker Philippe Tayac