Despite increasing public awareness of the importance of a healthy diet, the latest research from Mintel has found that the chilled dessert category is experiencing strong growth, with sales increasing by 40% since 2001.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more


Sales of chilled puddings, such as cream cakes, cheese cakes and trifle, rose to GBP390m (US$769.56m) in 2006.


“Undoubtedly the British still have a sweet tooth as the market for chilled desserts has seen a phenomenal increase in sales despite a growing obsession with healthy eating trends. Although many of us are trying to lead a healthier life, not everyone can be good all the time and we are clearly still happy to reward ourselves with an occasional treat,” Vivianne Ihekweazu, senior market analyst at Mintel, observed.


Within the category, cream cakes account for the largest proportion of sales, commanding 30%, or GBP115m, of the market. Sponge pudding accounts for 11% of category sales while trifle makes up 9% of the market.


Between 2004 and 2006, sales of chilled ready made custard, the traditional accompaniment to many such desserts, increased 22% to reach GBP11m.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The less traditional cheesecake has witnessed the fastest growth in the category, with sales up 57% over the past two years to total GBP33m, or 8% of category sales. This prolific growth can be attributed to the desire of UK consumers to have indulgent desserts to share, the Mintel report ‘Chilled desserts in the UK’ claimed. Retailers are also putting considerable efforts into developing this market and are driving purchases through NPD.


However, its not all good news for chilled dessert manufacturers: the likes of summer puddings, custard tarts and meringues have all seen sales flop in recent years. 


Mintel has estimated that over the next five years the market will see slower growth of around 20% to reach a total value of just under GBP£0.5bn by 2011.


“One way to help boost the market further would be for manufacturers to revive the joy of afternoon tea. As most people won’t be able to take part during the week due to work commitments, the weekend would be the ideal time for the family to get together and treat themselves to a proper afternoon tea with deliciously indulgent cakes,” Ihekweazu suggested.