GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Diversity In The Chocolate Industry Statistics

The chocolate industry lacks diversity with a limited representation of women and people of color in leadership roles and ownership.

Highlights: Diversity In The Chocolate Industry Statistics

  • The global chocolate industry is worth about $130 billion each year.
  • Only 3-5% of cocoa farmers globally are female despite female labor constituting a significant part of cocoa farming.
  • Approximately, 70% of the world's cocoa is produced in Western Sub-Saharan Africa.
  • The number of black leaders in the chocolate industry continues at a staggering 3%.
  • In a survey in the US in 2020, 38% of chocolate consumers said that they would prefer to purchase from a brand promoting racial equality.
  • Just 9% of the 100 most influential cocoa executives are women.
  • 16.5% of the chocolate market is represented by local or craft chocolate makers who majorly promote diversity.
  • Approximately, 40% of the world's almonds and 20% of the world's peanuts – go into chocolate products, showing diversity in ingredients.
  • 430,000 children in Ivory Coast, the world's largest cocoa producer, are involved in child labor.
  • About 10% of world cocoa production originates from certified farms, majorly promoting sustainable and fair practices.
  • Female employees are only 24% of the executive team on average among the leading 50 FMCG companies, which include chocolate giants.
  • Child labor in cocoa production increased by 14% in Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire between 2007 and 2013.
  • Discrimination experienced by women cocoa farmers is rampant, with fewer than 25% belonging to a farmer's group.
  • Some studies show that companies committed to diversity perform better than their peers by 35% on average.
  • Hershey's committed to $500 Million by 2030 on sustainability and social programs to improve farmer livelihoods and better the communities they live in, including promoting diversity.
  • Gaps in access to resources for cocoa farmers lead to a yield gap of up to 70% on smallholder farms.
  • Registered Organic cocoa farm area has more than doubled in worldwide from 150,000 hectares in 2008 to around 320,000 hectares in 2018, promoting biodiversity.
  • Sustainable cocoa farming can increase farmers incomes by 3 times, promoting economic diversity.
  • Less than 0.5% of the total income from chocolate ends up in the pockets of cocoa farmers.

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The Latest Diversity In The Chocolate Industry Statistics Explained

The global chocolate industry is worth about $130 billion each year.

The statistic that the global chocolate industry is worth about $130 billion each year indicates the estimated total value of all chocolate-related products and activities across the world annually. This value encompasses various aspects of the industry, including chocolate confectionery sales, cocoa production, processing, and trade. With a large consumer base and high demand for chocolate products worldwide, the industry’s significant economic value highlights its importance in the global market. The statistic serves as a key indicator of the industry’s scale and economic impact, reflecting the continued popularity and commercial significance of chocolate products on a global scale.

Only 3-5% of cocoa farmers globally are female despite female labor constituting a significant part of cocoa farming.

The statistic highlights a stark gender disparity in the global cocoa farming industry, with only 3-5% of cocoa farmers being female despite the significant contribution of female labor to cocoa farming activities. This imbalance underscores how women face barriers to entry and participation in cocoa farming, despite their crucial role in producing cocoa beans. The low representation of women in this sector not only reflects structural inequalities and limited access to resources but also suggests missed opportunities for women to benefit economically and have a voice in decision-making processes within the cocoa industry. Addressing and remedying this gender gap in cocoa farming is essential for promoting gender equality, empowering women in agricultural value chains, and enhancing the overall sustainability of cocoa production.

Approximately, 70% of the world’s cocoa is produced in Western Sub-Saharan Africa.

The statistic that approximately 70% of the world’s cocoa is produced in Western Sub-Saharan Africa highlights the concentration of cocoa production in this region. Western Sub-Saharan Africa, which includes countries like Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon, serves as a major hub for cocoa cultivation due to its suitable climate and soil conditions. This statistic underscores the significant role that these countries play in the global cocoa market, influencing supply levels, prices, and trade dynamics. It also emphasizes the economic importance of cocoa production for these nations and the impact that any issues or challenges within the region could have on the global cocoa industry as a whole.

The number of black leaders in the chocolate industry continues at a staggering 3%.

This statistic indicates that only 3% of leaders within the chocolate industry are Black, highlighting a significant lack of diversity and representation at leadership levels. The term “staggering” implies a sense of shock or concern at the low percentage of Black leaders in the industry. This statistic suggests that there is likely a systemic issue related to diversity and inclusion within the chocolate industry that needs to be addressed in order to create a more equitable and representative leadership demographic. Further investigation and action may be needed to improve opportunities for Black individuals to rise to leadership positions within the industry.

In a survey in the US in 2020, 38% of chocolate consumers said that they would prefer to purchase from a brand promoting racial equality.

The statistic indicates that in a survey conducted in the US in 2020, 38% of chocolate consumers expressed a preference for purchasing from a brand that promotes racial equality. This finding suggests that a sizeable portion of chocolate consumers value social issues such as racial equality when making purchasing decisions. The statistic highlights the growing importance of socially responsible practices among consumers and the potential impact that brand messaging and values can have on consumer behavior. Companies in the chocolate industry may consider incorporating initiatives promoting racial equality in their branding strategies to appeal to this segment of consumers and align with current societal values.

Just 9% of the 100 most influential cocoa executives are women.

The statistic “Just 9% of the 100 most influential cocoa executives are women” indicates a significant gender disparity within the top ranks of the cocoa industry. With only 9 out of the top 100 executives being women, it suggests that women are underrepresented in positions of power and leadership within this sector. This imbalance may have implications for gender equality, diversity, and inclusivity within the cocoa industry, potentially affecting decision-making processes, business strategies, and the overall dynamics of the industry. Addressing this gender gap and promoting greater representation of women in leadership roles within the cocoa sector could lead to a more equitable and diverse industry landscape.

16.5% of the chocolate market is represented by local or craft chocolate makers who majorly promote diversity.

The statistic indicates that local or craft chocolate makers, who primarily focus on promoting diversity, account for 16.5% of the total chocolate market. This suggests a significant presence of smaller, artisanal chocolate producers who are committed to showcasing diverse flavors, ingredients, and cultural experiences in their products. By capturing a notable share of the market, these niche chocolate makers are not only meeting the growing consumer demand for unique and ethically sourced treats but also contributing to the overall diversity and innovation within the chocolate industry. Their emphasis on inclusivity and creativity sets them apart from larger, mainstream chocolate brands, appealing to consumers looking for distinct and socially conscious options in the market.

Approximately, 40% of the world’s almonds and 20% of the world’s peanuts – go into chocolate products, showing diversity in ingredients.

This statistic indicates the significant contribution of almonds and peanuts to the chocolate industry, with approximately 40% of the world’s almonds and 20% of the world’s peanuts being used in chocolate products. This demonstrates the diversity of ingredients utilized in the production of chocolate, highlighting the importance of these nuts in creating different flavor profiles and textures in chocolate-based products. The large percentage of almonds and peanuts in chocolate also underscores the global supply chain involved in chocolate production, as these ingredients are sourced from different regions worldwide to meet the demand for chocolate consumption. Overall, this statistic showcases the integral role that almonds and peanuts play in the chocolate industry, contributing to the wide range of chocolate products available to consumers.

430,000 children in Ivory Coast, the world’s largest cocoa producer, are involved in child labor.

The statistic that 430,000 children in Ivory Coast are involved in child labor illuminates a serious issue within the world’s largest cocoa producer industry. This data suggests a pervasive problem of child exploitation, as these children are likely subjected to hazardous working conditions, long hours, and limited access to education or proper healthcare. The sheer scale of the statistic highlights the need for immediate action and intervention to protect the rights and well-being of these vulnerable individuals. This statistic not only sheds light on the immediate impacts on the children involved but also raises broader concerns about ethical sourcing practices within the cocoa industry.

About 10% of world cocoa production originates from certified farms, majorly promoting sustainable and fair practices.

This statistic indicates that approximately 10% of the global cocoa production comes from farms that have been certified, emphasizing sustainable and fair practices in their operations. Certification programs for cocoa farmers typically involve adherence to specific standards and guidelines that ensure environmentally friendly practices, ethical treatment of workers, and fair trade principles. By obtaining certification, these farms demonstrate their commitment to promoting sustainability and social responsibility within the cocoa industry, potentially benefiting both the environment and the livelihoods of farmers. Despite accounting for a relatively small percentage of the overall production, certified farms play a significant role in advancing sustainable and fair practices across the cocoa supply chain.

Female employees are only 24% of the executive team on average among the leading 50 FMCG companies, which include chocolate giants.

The statistic indicates that female employees make up only 24% of the executive team across the top 50 Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) companies, including prominent chocolate brands. This suggests a significant gender imbalance within the leadership positions of these companies, with women being underrepresented at the executive level. The finding highlights a lack of gender diversity in top leadership roles within the FMCG sector, specifically in companies known for producing chocolate products. This imbalance may point to potential issues related to gender equality, barriers to career advancement for women, and the need for organizations in the industry to prioritize efforts to promote inclusivity and diversity within their leadership teams.

Child labor in cocoa production increased by 14% in Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire between 2007 and 2013.

The statistic indicates that child labor in cocoa production in Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire experienced a significant increase of 14% from 2007 to 2013. This suggests that over this period, a higher proportion of children were engaged in cocoa production activities in these two countries. This increase raises concerns about the potential exploitation of children in these industries, highlighting the need for intervention and stricter enforcement of labor laws to protect the rights and well-being of children involved in cocoa production. Further investigation and action may be necessary to address this concerning trend and promote ethical practices within the cocoa supply chain.

Discrimination experienced by women cocoa farmers is rampant, with fewer than 25% belonging to a farmer’s group.

The statistic indicates a concerning level of discrimination faced by women cocoa farmers, as it reveals that the majority of them, specifically fewer than 25%, are not members of farmer’s groups. Farmer’s groups play a crucial role in providing support, resources, and opportunities for their members, such as access to training, finance, and markets. The low representation of women in these groups suggests that they are being excluded from important networks and services that could help improve their livelihoods and empower them within the cocoa industry. This lack of engagement may stem from systemic gender biases and unequal power dynamics that hinder women’s ability to fully participate and benefit from the cocoa farming sector. Addressing this discrimination is essential to promote gender equality, enhance women’s economic empowerment, and foster sustainable development in the cocoa supply chain.

Some studies show that companies committed to diversity perform better than their peers by 35% on average.

The statistic “Some studies show that companies committed to diversity perform better than their peers by 35% on average” suggests that there is a positive relationship between a company’s commitment to diversity and its performance. The 35% average performance advantage implies that companies actively promoting diversity in their workforce and leadership tend to outperform their competitors who do not prioritize diversity initiatives. This finding may be attributed to the benefits of diversity such as increased innovation, better decision-making, and a more inclusive work environment that fosters employee engagement and productivity. It underscores the importance of diversity and inclusion practices in driving business success and highlights the potential competitive advantage that can be gained by companies that embrace diversity as a core value.

Hershey’s committed to $500 Million by 2030 on sustainability and social programs to improve farmer livelihoods and better the communities they live in, including promoting diversity.

The statistic indicates that Hershey’s has committed to investing $500 million by the year 2030 in sustainability and social programs aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and improving the communities where they operate. This initiative also focuses on promoting diversity within the organization and the communities it serves. By allocating such a significant amount towards these efforts, Hershey’s is demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing environmental and social issues, supporting farmer welfare, and fostering inclusivity and diversity within its operations. This investment has the potential to create lasting positive impacts on both the environment and the communities that Hershey’s engages with.

Gaps in access to resources for cocoa farmers lead to a yield gap of up to 70% on smallholder farms.

This statistic indicates that disparities in the availability of necessary resources for cocoa farmers, such as access to tools, technologies, inputs like fertilizers, and knowledge, result in a substantial difference in yield between smallholder farms. The yield gap of up to 70% suggests that small-scale cocoa farmers who lack access to these resources are significantly less productive compared to those who have adequate support. This stark contrast underscores the critical role that access to resources plays in determining the success and productivity of cocoa farming operations, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and support to address these gaps and improve overall yields in this sector.

Registered Organic cocoa farm area has more than doubled in worldwide from 150,000 hectares in 2008 to around 320,000 hectares in 2018, promoting biodiversity.

The statistic indicates a significant increase in the registered organic cocoa farm area worldwide, which has more than doubled from 150,000 hectares in 2008 to approximately 320,000 hectares in 2018. This growth signifies a growing trend towards sustainable agriculture practices within the cocoa industry, with a focus on promoting biodiversity. By expanding the area of organic cocoa farms, there is a potential to reduce the environmental impact of cocoa production, support ecosystem health, and preserve biodiversity. Overall, the increase in registered organic cocoa farm area reflects a positive shift towards more environmentally friendly and socially responsible agricultural practices in the global cocoa supply chain.

Sustainable cocoa farming can increase farmers incomes by 3 times, promoting economic diversity.

This statistic suggests that sustainable cocoa farming practices have the potential to significantly increase farmers’ incomes by threefold. By promoting economic diversity through sustainable practices, cocoa farmers can not only enhance their own financial well-being but also create a more stable and prosperous income stream. Sustainable cocoa farming typically involves environmentally-friendly methods that are both socially and economically beneficial to farmers and their communities. By adopting such practices, farmers may see improvements in productivity, quality of cocoa, and ultimately, their overall livelihoods. This statistic underscores the importance of sustainable agriculture in driving economic growth and creating opportunities for financial empowerment among cocoa farmers.

Less than 0.5% of the total income from chocolate ends up in the pockets of cocoa farmers.

This statistic indicates that a very small proportion, specifically less than half of one percent, of the total income generated from chocolate sales ultimately reaches cocoa farmers, who are the primary producers of the cocoa used in chocolate production. This disparity highlights a significant imbalance in the distribution of wealth within the chocolate supply chain, with the majority of the profits being captured by other stakeholders such as manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. The low percentage received by cocoa farmers raises concerns about their economic sustainability and well-being, pointing to potential issues of exploitation and unfair trade practices in the chocolate industry. Efforts to address this imbalance and improve the livelihoods of cocoa farmers through initiatives like fair trade certification or direct trade arrangements are crucial to promote more equitable opportunities and financial outcomes for these essential contributors to the chocolate industry.

References

0. – https://www.makechocolatefair.org

1. – https://www.www.statista.com

2. – https://www.www.businessoffashion.com

3. – https://www.www.worldatlas.com

4. – https://www.www.mckinsey.com

5. – https://www.www.worldcocoafoundation.org

6. – https://www.www.candyindustry.com

7. – https://www.fortune.com

8. – https://www.www.fairtrade.net

9. – https://www.fairtrade-advocacy.org

10. – https://www.www.nestle.com

11. – https://www.www.lek.com

12. – https://www.www.fairtrade.org.uk

13. – https://www.www.confectionerynews.com

14. – https://www.www.worldbank.org

15. – https://www.www.thehersheycompany.com

16. – https://www.www.rainforest-alliance.org

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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