Chocolate industry

The chocolate industry is primarily made up of a small number of cocoa processors and chocolate manufacturers.

Worth US$105 billion in 2012, the chocolate industry makes up a slight majority of the global confectionery market, despite serving fewer, wealthier markets. Brands are segregated by territory, and evoke strong consumer loyalties. Chocolate is primarily purchased on impulse, but also as a gift, and, in the case of dark chocolate, sometimes for perceived health benefits.

The chocolate industry emerged in the 19th century, as technological developments allowed production to industrialize. It spread across the world in the 20th century.