Bakery Trends For 2022

As we step into the New Year and communities and supply chains reopen, though still fragile, there are several changes that one is likely to see in the near future in the bakery industry. But, one may add, that though many consumers are open to something new, after nearly two years of limited options and mobility, they don’t want to be rushed into rash decisions as far as eating habits are concerned. The pandemic has increased the awareness of healthy food. Bakeries have adopted changes to cater to the demands of the consumers – and are likely to continue transforming in the New Year. Ashok Malkani tries to present a broad perspective of likely trends for 2022 and beyond.

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The year 2021 brought the issue of people’s health to the forefront. The focus on health is likely to prevail for years. Health and wellness will, in all probability remain a priority among people as we step into 2022. Consumers are expected to look for ingredients that provide nutritional benefits in their everyday diet.

Janki Paingy, a home baker, avers that consumers’ habits for natural, clean label and plant-based products will continue in 2022 - and beyond.

Though the industry faced several problems it has managed to not only survive but also progress. According to Research and Markets, “Bakery Products Market – Growth, Trends, COVID-19 Impact, and Forecasts (2021- 2026)”, the global bakery products market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 2.6%.

Tackling Pandemic Problems

Whatever the projections for the future, there is little doubt that the bakery industry has undergone a period of trial and tribulation during the last two years. COVID-19 has made a significant impact on bakery products’ market.

Aditi Handa, Co-Founder and Head Baker of The Baker’s Dozen reveals, “The pandemic, especially the 1st lockdown, posed a series of unique challenges: from getting employees to come to work to managing raw material procurement and logistics of being able to get goods to stores. At The Baker’s Dozen, a lot of nimbleness proved to be our source not just to survive but to thrive. Our loyalty to our vendors and being able to get permissions in a timely manner ensured we always had supply of material for production. Our omni-channel sales approach across cities in India ensured some point of sales were always active.”