Europe frozen pastry market size and growth trends
Europe’s frozen pastry market is experiencing robust growth, driven by changing lifestyles, consumer demand for convenience, and a wave of innovation in flavours and formats. The market size is substantial, reaching over $2.4 billion in 2025 with expectations of surpassing $3.36 billion by 2032, reflecting a healthy compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4% globally and slightly higher in the most active European economies, such as the UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. Several multinational players lead innovation and expansion, delivering large-scale frozen pastry solutions for retail and food service channels across Europe. Frozen viennoiserie, like croissants, pain au chocolat, and Danish pastries, stand out as the leading segment. Convenience remains the top reason for strong adoption of frozen pastries, as busy households, retailers, and food service providers value the ability to offer consistent quality with minimal preparation time.
UK market opportunities and brand innovations
The UK market presents dynamic growth opportunities for retailers and distributors, especially those interested in premium and artisanal products. Current figures put the UK frozen bakery market value at USD 2.6 billion for 2022 and a projected USD 3.7 billion by 2030 (CAGR 4.5%), with cakes and pastries as key categories. The UK market features both global players and strong local brands. Vandemoortele has expanded its footprint through acquisitions, while Europastry offers artisan quality with a sustainability focus through a portfolio of local brands of frozen bakery solutions. Newcomers like Griddle, launched in 2019, have gained traction by innovating with premium ingredients and creative product lines. Leading UK supermarkets and large chains brands are driving frozen pastry growth by expanding own-label lines and refreshing menus. Limited-edition and globally inspired offerings enable more consumers to easily access a wide variety of pastries.
Pastel de Nata demand and retail success
Pastel de nata’s mainstream breakthrough, from independent cafés to major chains such as Nando’s and Leon, supermarkets including Lidl and Marks & Spencer, highlights demand for authentic, ready-to-bake products at accessible prices. Pastéis de nata are no longer a niche treat. They’re a headline-grabbing product with year-round appeal, making them a must-have for ambitious UK retailers and distributors looking to tap into the frozen pastry boom.
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Quick bites:
TV presenters invest in frozen dough business
Frozen desserts portfolio relaunched ahead of festive season
https://restaurantindustry.co.uk/2025/10/13/booker-plates-up-new-desserts-range-for-restaurants/
New premium bake-at-home pastries service
https://www.comptoirbakery.co.uk/collections/frozen-pastry
