Do you or anyone you know still chew gum?
Gum sales are one product that never rebounded to pre-pandemic levels.
During the pandemic, no one was concerned about their breath being fresh since we were social distancing and masking up.
Even though we are back to breathing near people again, gum sales aren't where they used to be.
The National Confectioners Association recently released its annual State of Treating report for 2023. It says that while gum and mint sales increased by 13.8% between 2021 and 2022, the overall numbers are still 8.8% below sales numbers in 2019.
Health concerns could be another reason we aren't chewing, as many people limit their sugar and artificial sweeteners intake.
It could also be a generational thing.
According to the Associated Press, Generation X (those born between 1965 and 1980) tends to chew gum more than other age groups.
Millennials generally show less interest in gum and candy, while Generation Z consumers are more interested in novelty candies like sour gummies.
So, while gum companies chewed on this fact, they refocused their efforts.
Instead of promoting their product as a breather freshener, some have shifted gears and packaged gum as a stress reliever.
In January, Mars Inc., which owns the 133-year-old Wrigley brand, launched an ad campaign promoting its top-selling brands as tools for mental well-being.
The campaign matches with studies that say people reach for the stuff in higher-stress situations.
So,, whether you have funky breath or are under pressure, gum will help you.
Feature image from Pexels from Cottonbro studios
