Olives Market Size, Share, and Industry Analysis By Type (Green Olives and Black Olives), By Product Form (Fresh and Processed), By End-Use (Household and Foodservice), and Regional Forecast, 2024-2032.

The olives market has increased in recent years owing to consumers' shift in consumption patterns regarding the inclusion of olive oils in regular diets and the growing usage of table olives. Consumers are increasingly seeking healthy and natural products, leading to a surge in the demand for olive-based products due to their heart-healthy fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the world production of olives accounted for 21.45 million tons in 2022. Table Olives in the form of snacks are also gaining popularity among consumers. Some manufacturers are also launching olive snacks to cater to such consumer segments.  

• For instance, in August 2023, Cypressa, a Mediterranean food brand, launched a range of olive snack pouches in the U.K. The new products are available in plain, chilli and garlic, and herb flavors and are ideal for eating on the go, such as in lunch boxes or as a standby snack.

Therefore, farmers are investing in increasing olive production to meet the growing market demand. Technological advancements in farming practices, irrigation, and disease control supported by public and private investments support the advancement in olive production and increase yields.

• For instance, in March 2022, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) announced a USD 50 million long-term loan to Bunge Ltd., one of the leading producers of edible oils, to finance the working capital needs and capital investments for olive farming. The funds would help Bunge to develop certified organic olive production in Turkey and improve the olive supply chain.

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected the harvesting, processing, and transportation of olives and olive-based products owing to disruptions in supply chains and logistics. However, the pandemic raised awareness of health and well-being, potentially pushing consumers toward healthier options such as olive oil. According to Coldiretti, an Italian farmer’s association, during the pandemic, the sales of olive oil increased by 22%. The growing home-cooking trend during the pandemic further fueled the sales of such products.

Key Insights

The report covers the following key insights:

• Market Overview of Related/Parent Market


• Supply Chain & Regulatory Analysis


• Recent Industry Developments – Partnerships, Mergers and Acquisitions, and New Product Launches


• Swot Analysis


• COVID-19 Impact

OLIVES MARKET SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS:

Analysis by Type

The green olives segment is expected to hold a significant share of the global market. Green olives being harvested unripe possess a higher oil content compared to ripe olives. Therefore, green olives are majorly used in the production of olive oil. Green olives have a distinct tangy and slightly bitter flavor, which is preferred by most consumers. According to the National Library of Medicine (NHM) report, green olives are loaded with health benefits and have lower fat content compared to black olives. Moreover, green olives contain higher amounts of polyphenols, such as antioxidants with anti-inflammatory benefits, compared to black olives.

The black olives segment is expected to grow at a fast pace over the forecast period. These olives offer a distinct smoky, savory flavor, which makes them used as toppings in various dishes such as pizzas, pasta, and salads.

Analysis by Product Form

The processed olive segment is expected to hold a significant share of the global market. Processed olives include canned, brined, cured, or stuffed olives. The processing of olives enhances their shelf life and storage compared to fresh ones, catering to market growth. Moreover, processing enables distribution over larger distances and across seasons, making olives accessible throughout the year.

The fresh segment holds a small market share as fresh olives must be sold soon after harvest. The fresh olives are usually sold from the farm to the farmer's market or online channels.

Analysis by End-Use

The household segment is expected to hold a major share of the global market. The pandemic and lifestyle changes have led to more consumers cooking at home, driving the demand for cooking ingredients such as olives. The growing health awareness is pushing consumers toward perceived healthier options such as table olives, which are rich in fats, antioxidants, and fiber. Manufacturers have prioritized this trend and launched new products in the market to meet the rising demand. For instance, in December 2023, Bertolli, one of the leading olive oil brands, launched a new range of table olives to grocery store shelves. The new range is available in five different varieties, including pimiento-stuffed, blue cheese stuffed, Mediterranean medley, large black ripe, and sliced black ripe olives.

The food service industry segment is expected to grow over the forecast period. Olives have gained a significant rise in demand from the food service segment owing to their health attributes and flavors. According to the Agricultural Marketing Resource Center, canned olives are mostly used in food service channels such as pizza or fast-food chains owing to the increased interest in Mediterranean cuisines and are expected to rise further over the forecast period.

Analysis by Region

Europe is expected to dominate the global olives market owing to the growing consumer focus on healthier foods and rising Mediterranean diets. The region is known to be one of the largest importing regions of table olives in the world. According to the Centre for the Promotion of Imports from Developing Countries, in 2020, Europe imported 516 thousand tons of olives. Moreover, roughly  60% of olives are consumed by the food service sector in Europ, and green olives have a larger market share compared to black olives. Spain and Italy are the major countries producing and supplying olives to various other countries.

North America is expected to grow significantly over the forecast period. The high spending power, particularly in markets such as the U.S. and Mexico, fuels the demand for premium and speciality olive products.

Key Market Players

• Olive Line International S.L, Fruyper S.A.


• ACEITUNAS TORRENT, S.L


• Special Food Industry International


• Conagra Brands, Inc.


• California Olive Ranch, Inc.


• Oleificio Zucchi S.P.A.


• Pompeian, Inc


• Olives Escamilla


• Lindsay Olive Growers.

Key Industry Developments

• In January 2024, Bank Muscat, one of the leading financial service providers in the Sultanate of Oman, signed a partnership agreement to plant 300 olive trees in the village of Al Manakhir. The agreement was signed with the aim of achieving ecological, social, and economic goals.

• In May 2023, Pompeian, Inc., a farmer-owned organization, unveiled its first sustainably grown certified olive farm and olive oil in North America.