The global   soup market   was valued at USD 16.12 billion in 2019 and is anticipated to reach USD 21.0 billion by 2027, exhibiting a CAGR of 2.79% from 2020 to 2027. The U.S. soup market is also poised for substantial expansion, projected to attain approximately USD 5.89 million by 2032. This growth is primarily driven by rising consumer demand for convenient meal solutions and the continuous innovation in soup offerings by manufacturers. In 2019, Europe dominated the global soup industry, accounting for 37.66% of the total market share.

Market Growth Drivers

The market’s expansion is strongly linked to the increasing consumption of processed and ready-to-eat food products across both developed and emerging economies. Factors such as a growing working population, the rising number of working women, urbanization, changing dietary preferences, and higher disposable income have significantly contributed to this shift. Consumers increasingly favor instant, ready-to-eat (RTE), and ready-to-drink (RTD) meal options, which, in turn, bolster demand for soups and similar convenience foods.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the global demand for soups surged considerably. With lockdowns imposed across over 180 countries and nearly 2 million people affected, consumers prioritized essential and long-shelf-life products. Consequently, the sales of instant and processed food items, including soups, witnessed a notable upswing. The presence of working professionals and students confined at home further boosted the consumption of instant soup varieties during this period.

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Market Dynamics

The soup market continues to gain traction due to rising dependence on ready-to-eat meals, driven by lifestyle changes and the need for convenient dining solutions. Key contributing factors include:

• A steady increase in the working population.
• Greater participation of women in the workforce.
• Adoption of Western dietary habits in developing countries.
• Rising disposable incomes and evolving food consumption patterns.

Collectively, these dynamics are expected to sustain the growth momentum of the soup industry over the coming years.

Scope of the Report

This report provides an in-depth assessment of the key market trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the global soup industry. It also analyzes regional performance, major strategic developments, and competitive activities such as new product launches, mergers, partnerships, and acquisitions between 2019 and 2026, offering a holistic view of the market landscape.

Key Market Trends

Growing Demand for Convenient and Instant Food Options

An increasing focus on time-saving and easy-to-prepare meals has fueled the popularity of instant soups and other quick-meal solutions. Economic progress, higher purchasing power, and a surge in female employment have further strengthened this trend. Busy consumers, especially urban dwellers, are increasingly drawn to packaged, ready-to-cook, and ready-to-serve food formats.

For instance, according to the Canada Agri-Food Report, China’s food retail sales reached USD 272.74 billion in 2019, with an annual growth projection of 7%, reflecting the growing preference for processed and packaged foods in emerging economies.

Segmentation Insights

Instant Soups Dominate the Global Market

In 2019, instant soups accounted for 36.78% of total global sales, owing to their ease of preparation, cost-effectiveness, and extended shelf life. Their convenience appeals strongly to working-class consumers. Canned soups followed as the second-largest segment, showing strong sales performance in developed regions such as the U.S. and Germany, supported by robust retail distribution and a wide variety of product offerings.

Regional Analysis

Europe – Leading Regional Market

Europe remained the top-performing region in 2019, generating roughly USD 6.07 billion in revenue. The region’s dominance stems from its high consumption of packaged and processed foods. North America also represents a significant market, bolstered by rising demand for ready meals and on-the-go food options among urban populations.

Competitive Landscape

Innovation and Strategic Adaptation Fuel Market Growth

Prominent players in the soup industry are focusing on innovation and adaptability to meet changing consumer demands—particularly those accelerated by the pandemic. For example, in May 2020, Chef Ris Lacoste from Ritzy West End, Washington, D.C., launched a USD 15 takeaway meal bundle, which included soups, salads, bread, and complimentary home delivery services. Such initiatives exemplify how companies are leveraging creativity and customer engagement to maintain market relevance.

Ongoing efforts in product development, partnerships, and strategic acquisitions are expected to further strengthen the global soup market through 2027.

Key Market Players

• The Campbell Soup Company
• Nestlé S.A.
• Baxters Food Group Limited
• General Mills, Inc.
• Conagra Brands, Inc.
• Premier Foods Group Limited
• The Kraft Heinz Company
• Hindustan Unilever Limited
• Ottogi Co., Ltd.
• Associated British Foods plc

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Recent Development

• January 2020: Clarity Food Ventures LLC introduced its new “Soup Explorers” refrigerated soup kits inspired by international cuisines, such as Moroccan Chilled Cucumber, American Chicken Noodle, and Vietnamese Vegetable Pho. These kits were designed for quick and easy preparation, showcasing the company’s commitment to expanding its global footprint in the premium soup category.