premium chocolate sales.

Premium chocolates continue to be the star in the confections industry, contributing the majority of growth in the chocolate category. Research from market research firm Mintel shows sales of premium chocolate increasing 129 percent from 2001 to 2006, when it reached $2.05 billion - about 13 percent of the total chocolate market. Mintel's forecast for the premium chocolate market shows growth of 73 percent in current terms and 53 percent in constant terms over the next five years. Total premium chocolate sales in the U.S. are forecasted to reach $3,554 million by 2011.

Premium chocolate is growing in popularity for a number of reasons, according to Mintel's U.S. Premium Chocolate Confectionery report. First, medical research suggests that the flavanols and antioxidants in chocolate have the potential to reduce rates of stroke, heart failure, cancer, and diabetes. These are benefits of interest to many in an aging American population. Consumers also continue to be fascinated with dark chocolate and with chocolate that is flavored with a wide range of novel ingredients.

The Gourmet Retailer Magazine conducted its own retail survey for premium chocolate sales. For survey results of your retail peers, go to www.gourmetretailer.com/chocolatesurvey.