The infusion market - France

Infusion is first and foremost an extraction method involving the soaking of a plant in hot water, which is then left to cool in order to extract its active ingredients or natural aromas. Unlike maceration, where the water remains cold, or decoction, where the water is kept boiling, infusion is based on gradual interaction with initially hot water. A wide variety of infusions are available, including black, green and white teas, as well as herbal teas in various flavors such as chamomile, ginger and verbena. These herbal teas can be purchased in bags or loose, and are available in both supermarkets and specialist stores. The herbal tea market is constantly evolving, with the regular arrival of new products such as cold infusions and encapsulated pods. The global herbal tea market was valued at US$3.52 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach US$5.65 billion by 2031, with a compound annual growth rate of 6.10% over the period 2024-2031. This growth illustrates a growing interest in herbal beverages, particularly infusions, driven by health and wellness-oriented consumer trends. In France, the infusions market recorded strong growth of 16.2% in 2020, boosted by the Covid-19 pandemic, which increased consumption of hot drinks at home. After a slowdown in 2022, the market picked up gradually in 2023, with growth of 3% year-on-year. This recovery is based on solid factors: the success of organic and eco-responsible products, which since 2018 have accounted for more than half of infusions sold in France, as well as the rise of CBD-based drinks, contributing to renewed growth. France remains a major importer in this sector. In 2023, Spain was France's main customer, while Ireland emerged as the main supplier. Large and medium-sized retailers dominate the distribution of infusions, accounting for 84% of total sales. In 2023, infusions accounted for 37% of tea and infusion sales in this channel. In contrast, the market for herbal teas and plants for infusion in organic stores has been in decline since 2021. Between 2020 and 2023, sales in this segment fell by 30% in value and 34% in volume, affecting all products without distinction.