Easter bunny to deliver $1.85m chocolate spend

It’s that time of the year again. Australians will spend about 50% more on chocolate over the week around Easter, with expenditure expected to reach $185.7 million - up 5.2% on last year.

This year, however, many Australians will be choosing dark and fair trade chocolate, says IBISWorld Managing Director Karen Dobie.

“Australians are becoming increasingly health conscious, a trend that has resulted in growing demand for low-fat and low-sugar treats,” Dobie said. “Dark chocolate is expected to be a popular choice this Easter as it is regarded as a healthier indulgence.”

“Sustainability will also be on people’s minds, with fair trade chocolates tipped to be a favoured gift.”

Premium brands such as Lindt and Haigh’s are likely to experience increased demand as consumer sentiment improves, interest rates remain low and overall economic trends remain positive.

The chocolate industry won’t be the only one to benefit. IBISWorld anticipates that Australians will spend more than $3 billion over the four-day Easter break, equating to $132.85 per capita - a slight increase on last year’s $130.33 per capita last year.

Supermarkets, butchers, fishmongers and liquor retailers are expected to fare well also. IBISWorld predicts fish and seafood expenditure will increase by around 4.9%, with seafood extending its popularity from Good Friday through to Easter Sunday, with barbecued seafood featuring on many Easter tables.

Imported wines, cider and craft beers are likely to be the tipples of choice, with Easter alcohol expenditure expected to hit $137.6 million. Overall, food and beverage spending is predicted to reach $1.55 billion, Dobie said, representing a 3.6% increase on last year’s spend.