The BDSI represents the economic interests of predominantly medium-sized companies in the German confectionery industry. Membership is possible either as a pay-scale company or as a non-pay-scale company. Sector-related companies/institutions may have a sponsor membership. The BDSI's member companies represent around 90% of sector sales.
The BDSI covers the following product groups:
- Chocolate Products
- Fine Bakery Wares
- Sugar Confectionery Products
- Brand Ice Cream
- Savoury Snacks
- Raw Pastes
The BDSI is
- a trade association and employers' association with over 200 member companies
- the representative of the confectionery industry's interests vis-à-vis politicians and public authorities at national, European, and at international level
- the spokesperson of the German confectionery industry as regards the general public and the media
- a service provider, information broker, and problem solver for its members
- founder and co-organiser of the International Sweet and Biscuits Fair (ISM), SweetsChina, Sweets Middle East and ProSweets Cologne.
The German Confectionery Industry in Figures
The German confectionery industry plays a leading role in the food sector, contributing around 10% to the total sales of the food industry. It is particularly characterised by its strong focus on exports.
Key data
| Sales |
€12.3 billion |
| Production |
3.6 million tonnes |
| Employees |
approx. 50,000 |
| Export share (incl. EU) |
over 40% |
| Raw material processing |
|
| Sugar |
730,000 tonnes |
| Potatoes |
370,000 tonnes |
| Cocoa |
350,000 tonnes |
| Wheat flour |
350,000 tonnes |
| Glucose |
150,000 tonnes |
| Dairy products |
130,000 tonnes |
As a processor of agricultural products, the German confectionery industry is a major contributor to the agricultural economy.