The global flavors and fragrances market continues to show good rates of growth across the various regions, according to IAL Consultants. The company has published the 11th edition of its report on the global markets for Flavors & Fragrances. The total global market reached US$28.2 billion in 2017, an increase of 4.6 percent compared to the previous year and is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 4.9 percent p.a. to reach approximately US$36 billion in 2022. Of the total world market, flavors account for approximately 56 percent and fragrances for the remaining 44 percent.

Of the main global regions, the combined flavors and fragrances market is most significant in Asia-Pacific, followed by North America and Western Europe.

While the West European and North American markets are quite mature, there is still potential for growth as consumers develop more sophisticated tastes and preferences. There is still plenty of opportunity for growth in the CEE, MEA and Asia Pacific regions, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia wher access to processed foods and consumer goods is still growing. The fastest growth rates in the medium term are expected in Asia-Pacific, according to the report. 

The beverages sector was the largest global end-use market for flavors in 2017 with a share of 33 percent, followed by the dairy industry at 13 percent.

Givaudan, IFF, Firmenich and Symrise continue to occupy the top four positions in the global flavors and fragrances market. Their combined sales of compound flavors and fragrances in 2017 represented around 44 percent of the worldwide market. IFF’s intended acquisition of Frutarom, which IAL currently ranks as no. 7 in the world Flavors & Fragrance market, could pose a threat to Givaudan’s leading position, the report notes.

The publication of the report comes amid a period of high consolidation within the flavors space. The first six months of 2018 were dominated by the shift in the traditional flavors segment, wher major players such as Givaudan and IFF diversify their portfolio to look beyond their core base and target the more holistic concept of taste as opposed to pure flavor. The clean label trend is central to this market dynamic, as Firmenich also looks to this arena with the creation of a Clean Label & Natural platform.

In May, IFF agreed to buy Israeli flavors and ingredients company, Frutarom, in a transaction valued at approximately US$7.1 billion. By combining with Frutarom, IFF said it is seeking to accelerate its Vision 2020 strategy to create a global leader in natural taste, scent and nutrition. As the dust settled on the IFF and Frutarom deal, all eyes were on the flavors and fragrances industry, as the company went up against current market leader Givaudan.

Givaudan completed the acquisition of 40.5 percent of the share capital of Naturex in March for a total consideration of €522 million. Plans are in place to acquire the whole of Naturex. This transaction is part of Givaudans 2020 strategy to strengthen its capabilities in natural flavor solutions.

Today’s connected world creates an opportunity for new ethnic flavors, street food inspired meals and the revival of culinary classics. Innova Market Insights has reported an average annualgrowth rate of 20 percent in food and beverage launches with global flavors (Global, 2013-2017), with growth in platforms such as chili, herb and floral flavors.

In 2017, 23 percent of the new product launches tracked with an ethnic flavor were private label brands relative to 19 percent in 2013. NPD based on world flavor ranges have become increasingly popular and food truck and street food flavors have been a source of inspiration for NPD for retail. According to Innova Market Insight data, there has been a 24 percent growth in food & beverage launches with a food truck or street food claim (Global, 2017 vs. 2016).

As the population becomes more diverse, consumers are embracing bold flavors, which were once unfamiliar. Consumers are seeking intense experiences with flavor combinations that challenge the normal level of spiciness. For example, the average annual growth of food and beverage launches with selected chili flavor (Global, 2013-2017) is 59 percent Sriracha chili, 19 percent Habanero chili and 15 percent Chipotle chili.

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