Overview
- Benchmark cocoa has fallen to its lowest level in nearly two years, yet shoppers face higher seasonal prices for chocolate and confectionery, with Lindt and Milka Christmas figures listed at €8.99 for 200 g and €4.99 for 175 g at major retailers.
- Consumer groups and analysts cite expensive stocks bought during the earlier spike and long‑term supply deals as the main reasons for sticky retail prices, with signs of shrinkflation and more promotions likely before any broad reductions.
- A spring cold snap devastated Turkey’s hazelnut harvest, pushing prices above €9,000 per tonne, while pistachios previously surged, adding further cost pressure on nut‑heavy recipes and premium products.
- Price checks show discounter and supermarket own brands are dearer this season, including Dominosteine up to €3.49 per 250 g, Lebkuchen commonly €2.99 per 500 g, Zimtsterne at €2.99 per 175 g, and Baumkuchen rising to about €4.99 per cake.
- Small chocolatiers in North Rhine‑Westphalia report intense margin strain from costly cocoa and nuts, and they warn that new EU organic‑certification rules will add thousands in annual compliance costs for small cooperatives.