Typical consumers of seasonal sweets are young

Sales of Easter chocolate figures continue to drop. Hyper markets remain the primary distribution channel, while the market share of small stores continues to shrink, according to data from GfK Hungária ConsumerScan. The number of households purchasing seasonal sweets for Easter was down by 6 percent in 2008, compared to 2007. Average purchases were also down by 7 percent, resulting in a 16 percent drop in the quantity sold. Average price was up by 16 percent, with brands producing a 15 percent price rise. Brands account for 93 percent of total sales in terms of quantity. As a result of higher price, sales were down by only 3 percent in terms of value. In recent years, a shift towards younger age groups has taken place in demand, with sales generated by households lead by housewives under 40 actually rising.