Australian consumers are being offered the widest range of Easter eggs possible this year, with manufacturers expanding choice across sizes, price points and product formats despite significant cost pressures facing the confectionery sector.
Tim Piper, Head of the Confectionery Sector at Australian Industry Group, said manufacturers have worked hard to protect choice and affordability during a period of intense global disruption.
"Chocolate makers understand that households are under pressure, and the industry has responded by offering more ways for consumers to enjoy Easter without losing the joy of the occasion," Mr Piper said.
"The sector has been heavily impacted by sharp increases in input costs, led by cocoa prices. Global cocoa prices more than doubled during 2024, reaching record prices and much of the Easter ranges were made with cocoa purchased at high prices. Cocoa is the single largest ingredient cost in chocolate production so cost increases were unavoidable," Mr Piper said.
"And like every consumer in the country, chocolate manufacturers are also facing higher energy prices, transport costs, packaging costs and wages."
Manufacturers have taken different approaches to minimise the impact on consumers. Some have absorbed part of the cost increases by reducing the weight of certain Easter eggs, allowing retail prices to rise less than they otherwise would have. Others have chosen to keep products the same size while implementing modest price increases.
"Without these adjustments, consumers would be facing far steeper price rises at the checkout," Mr Piper said. "Instead, manufacturers have focused on flexibility and choice, giving consumers control over how much they spend.
"Across the market, this has resulted in a broader range of smaller, midsized and premium Easter products than ever before, ensuring options for every budget.
"Manufacturers are responding directly to consumer preferences. Some shoppers want value, others want tradition, and others are happy to pay more for premium or specialty products. The industry is working to meet all of those needs.
"Easter is a time of celebration and family," Mr Piper said. "Chocolate plays a special role in that, and manufacturers are proud to continue providing Australians with choice, quality and enjoyment, even in difficult economic times."
Further comment:
Tim Piper – 0411 430 301
