The forecast for hours worked in the UK's Cocoa, Chocolate, and Sugar Confectionery sector indicates a declining trend from 2024 to 2028, starting at 35.704 million hours and decreasing to 34.094 million hours. This represents a consistent year-on-year decrease, with the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over this five-year period forecasted as negative, highlighting reduced labor output. In 2023, the actual figures were higher, thus signalling a contraction in the workforce's demand in this sector post-2023.
Future trends to watch include automation and technological advancements, potentially reducing labor hours further. Additionally, evolving consumer preferences and sustainability practices might reshape workforce demands in the confectionery industry.