Suppliers of both ingredients and ready-to-eat products are bullish on the future of pastries in instore bakeries.

The top category consumers regularly purchase as a treat is snacks, according to a recent report from 84.51°.

In perimeter bakery, full-size muffins account for 81% of dollar growth in both dollars and units, according to IRI International.

Barry Callebaut has recently expanded its ISB lineup to include fun, bakeable items like colorful swirled chips and caramel cups that can be used as garnishes to replace plastic decorations.

A study found that 69% of consumers are interested in chocolate with healthy ingredients, 74% want snacks that are nutritious and energizing and 71% want chocolate that supports their mental health.

The company is positioned in the 1st percentile in both the Food Product and Packaged Food companies by Morningstar Sustainalytics.

In his new role, Amr Arafa will help the company continue to create a tech-based organization that supports it going forward.

The program, called BC next level, will increase the number of regions to five from three, establish a customer supply and development organization, and reduce the number of executive committee members to six from nine.

Kai Hummel has been appointed to the role, effective September 1.

The agreement will see Barry Callebaut continue supporting Unilever in achieving its sustainability goals.