The global confectionery market grew by 3% in 2008 and reached a value of $127.9 billion according to Confectionery: Global Industry Guide, a report issued by Companiesandmarkets.com. By 2013, the firm forecasts that world's confectionery market will be valued at $147.7 billion, an increase of 15.5% since 2008.

In terms of volume, the global confectionery market grew 2.4% in 2008, weighing in at 12.8 billion kilograms. According to the report, this volume will grow to 14.3 billion kilograms, an increase of 11.4% over 2008.

Other highlights of the research include:

• Chocolate sales generated 48.6% of the global confectionery market's value.

• Europe accounts for 48.8% of the confectionery market's value.

• Confectionery giant Mars Inc. accounts for 17% of the global confectionery market's value.

• Supermarkets and hypermarkets distribute 32.6% of the confectionery market's value.