8 mega retail trends for 2025

This trend, driven by the rising demand for ethically sourced ingredients and eco-friendly practices, is not just a passing phase. It’s an expectation.

According to the latest data, 73% of consumers recycle, 68% reduce food waste, and over half opt for locally produced goods. This shift is further reinforced by regulations like the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which is pushing businesses to be more transparent about their sustainability efforts.

Incorporating responsibly sourced ingredients in your products, reducing waste by using ingredients with longer shelf life, and preparing for increased scrutiny in sustainability reporting are practical steps bakeries, baked goods producers and retailers can take to align with this trend.

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Opting for compostable packaging or FSC-certified materials can visibly communicate a commitment to the environment.

Take Earth & Wheat, for example. This UK-based bakery and grocery delivery box service uses home-compostable bags from KM Packaging’s C-Range to package their “wonky” bread, reducing plastic waste while supporting their sustainability mission.

At Puratos, we help you in riding this wave of sustainability by providing food ingredients and expert advice that help reduce your carbon footprint and make your bakery products more sustainable. Contact your local sales representative to learn more. 

Incorporating educational content about packaging materials and eco-friendly ingredients into your marketing (both online and offline) helps reassure customers that your sustainability efforts are authentic and not just for show.

As global research shows, including our Taste Tomorrow always-on consumer research, gut health is a top priority for consumers, with brands integrating probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber-rich ingredients within their food products. For instance, offering high-fiber breads enriched with flaxseeds or turmeric can meet the demand for both indulgence and nutrition.

Additionally, the growth in plant-based offerings allows businesses to cater to health-conscious consumers without compromising flavor.

The 23% annual growth in plant-based food with natural claims demonstrates that consumers are seeking clean, recognizable ingredients.

Innovate by offering plant-based versions of traditional baked goods, like croissants, muffins, and cookies. The key is to ensure that these alternatives do not compromise on flavor or texture. Moreover, plant-based options are more sustainable, as they have a lower carbon footprint according to life-cycle assessments, making them a better choice for the environment.

The intersection of indulgence and self-care continues to grow, particularly among younger generations who value beauty-enhancing features in their food choices. This trend, known as "Taste the Glow," capitalizes on the cosmetic appeal of food, with 1 in 5 global consumers purchasing products aimed at improving physical appearance or skin health.

The market is evolving rapidly, with food launches featuring beauty-related claims growing 11% year-on-year and skin health claims seeing a 15% rise from 2019 to 2024. Tap into this trend by offering items like collagen-enriched bread rolls or glow-boosting pastries infused with antioxidant-rich berries.

Interested in creating products that are healthier for consumers and have a lower environmental impact on the planet? Contact us!

Building on that, more consumers are embracing flavor experimentation, looking for bold, surprising products. With 43% of global consumers looking for "crazy creations" and 40% valuing rich flavors. Unexpected pairings are becoming a strong selling point.

Recent trends show that flavored breads are becoming a significant segment, with cheese, garlic, and milk chocolate in the lead. Offering a mix of global flavors (e.g., misos, yuzu, and matcha) or combining savory and sweet elements will likely differentiate your offerings from competitors. Launch it as a limited-edition item to drive increased buzz and attention from your audience.

Take inspiration from Wochi Mochi in the Netherlands, which launched a Lemon Pie Cookie Dough Mochi with Ice Cream Filling in 2024. Experiment with bold combinations such as matcha and white chocolate croissants or kimchi sourdough. 

Gen Z and Millennials are embracing portion-controlled indulgences. 42% of consumers prefer to treat themselves with everyday moments of happiness through indulgent yet manageable options. It contributes to their emotional satisfaction. This trend is especially popular as economic pressures push people to opt for more affordable indulgences.

Capitalize on this by offering miniature versions of popular items, such as mini croissants, and bite-sized pastries, making indulgence accessible without guilt. 

Nearly 1 in 2 consumers globally value food that connects to their cultural roots, while 65% want more traditional recipes on shelves.

Hop on this trend by modernizing your classic recipes with premium, more local ingredients e.g. cakes or tarts featuring locally sourced fruit fillings. Pairing nostalgic flavors with a fresh presentation strikes a balance between old and new, appealing to tradition-minded and adventurous consumers.