UK Manuka Honey Market Research Report: By Product Type (MGO 83, MGO 263, MGO 514, MGO 829, Others), By Category (Conventional, Organic) andBy Distribution Channel (Store-Based, Non-Store-Based)- Forecast to 2035

UK Manuka Honey Market Overview

UK Manuka Honey Market Size was estimated at 32 (USD Million) in 2024.The UK Manuka Honey Industry is expected to grow from 34.5(USD Million) in 2025 to 86.5 (USD Million) by 2035. The UK Manuka Honey Market CAGR (growth rate) is expected to be around 8.715% during the forecast period (2025 - 2035).

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Key UK Manuka Honey Market Trends Highlighted

The UK Manuka Honey Market is witnessing significant trends driven by rising consumer awareness regarding health benefits associated with Manuka honey. This unique honey is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which have prompted an increase in its popularity among health-conscious consumers in the UK. Additionally, as more people adopt natural remedies and organic products, the demand for Manuka honey continues to grow. This trend is further fueled by the increasing interest in holistic health and natural food options. Opportunities to be explored in the UK market include product innovation, particularly in incorporating Manuka honey into a variety of food items and supplements.

Brands have begun to experiment with different formats, such as Manuka-infused snacks or beauty products, allowing consumers to enjoy the benefits of Manuka honey beyond traditional uses. Furthermore, as e-commerce continues to rise in popularity, businesses can capitalize on online sales channels to reach a broader audience seeking specialty health products. In recent times, the UK has seen a rise in ethically sourced and sustainable products, and Manuka honey fits well within this trend. Consumers are becoming more discerning about the origins of their food, leading to an increased demand for certified Manuka honey that adheres to strict quality standards.

Additionally, collaborations between local producers and retailers are becoming more common, allowing for better supply chain transparency and promoting trust in the product's authenticity. Overall, the UK Manuka Honey Market is evolving with changing consumer behaviors and preferences, presenting numerous avenues for growth and development.

UK Manuka Honey Market Drivers

Growing Awareness of Health Benefits

The UK Manuka Honey Market Industry is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing awareness among consumers regarding the health benefits associated with Manuka honey. It has been identified as a natural remedy for various ailments, including sore throats, digestive issues, and wound healing due to its antibacterial properties. A report from the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK highlighted that honey, particularly Manuka honey, is becoming a preferred choice for patients seeking natural alternatives to conventional medicine.The NHS also noted a 15% increase in patients opting for natural health therapies within the last three years. This shift indicates a strong preference for organic and natural products, which positively influences the demand for Manuka honey in the UK market.

Rise in E-commerce Sales

The surge in e-commerce has presented a substantial growth driver for the UK Manuka Honey Market Industry. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, online shopping has increased significantly, with a report from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) stating that online retail sales in the UK soared by approximately 36% in 2020. This trend continues to influence consumer behavior as more people prefer the convenience of online shopping for specialty food items such as Manuka honey.Major retailers like Tesco and Sainsbury's have expanded their online offerings to include health products, thus improving accessibility to Manuka honey. This accessibility has resulted in broader consumer reach and an increase in sales within the industry.

Support from Local Beekeeping Initiatives

Supportive government policies and local initiatives aimed at promoting beekeeping practices in the UK are driving growth in the Manuka honey market. The UK government has set various frameworks to sustain local beekeeping, which helps enhance the quality and production of Manuka honey. According to the British Beekeepers Association (BBKA), there has been an estimated 8% annual growth in the number of registered beekeepers in the UK over the last five years, contributing to a stable supply of Manuka honey.This increasing number of beekeepers aligns with the rising demand for organic products, as consumers are increasingly opting for locally sourced and sustainable food items.

UK Manuka Honey Market Segment Insights:

Manuka Honey Market Product Type Insights

The UK Manuka Honey Market is characterized by its varied Product Type segmentation, where different grades contribute to an intriguing and diverse landscape. This market showcases a range of Manuka honey types differentiated primarily by their MGO (Methylglyoxal) content, which serves as a key indicator of quality and potency. MGO 83, MGO 263, MGO 514, and MGO 829 encompass a spectrum of flavors and potential health benefits, making them appealing to various consumer segments. Each grade signifies a different level of antibacterial activity, which can significantly influence purchasing decisions among health-conscious consumers.

With the MGO 829 variant often recognized for its high potency, it tends to dominate premium categories, attracting consumers seeking robust health benefits. In contrast, MGO 83 appeals to a broader audience due to its accessibility and milder characteristics, effectively serving as an entry point for new buyers. The ongoing growth in the wellness and natural product sector in the UK drives substantial demand for these specific grades as more individuals become mindful of dietary choices and their impacts. Furthermore, the unique properties associated with Manuka honey, including its use in first-aid and skincare products, bolster its relevance across multiple applications, thus enhancing overall market dynamics.

Alongside these prominent grades, the 'Others' category captures emerging products and formulations, indicating a shift towards innovative offerings like infused or blended Manuka honey, which pique the interest of consumers looking for diversity in flavor and potential health benefits. The increasing consumer education about the virtues of Manuka honey fosters a greater appreciation and demand for specific grades based on their unique properties, which in turn drives market growth across all categories.

Overall, the UK Manuka Honey Market segmentation by Product Type highlights the importance of MGO levels in defining product offerings that meet diverse consumer needs while also reflecting broader health trends, consumer preferences, and opportunities for brand differentiation in an increasingly competitive industry. As the market evolves, we can anticipate greater emphasis on quality markers and their implications for consumer choice, positioning the UK as a key player in the global Manuka honey narrative.

Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, MRFR Database and Analyst Review

Manuka Honey Market Category Insights

The UK Manuka Honey Market demonstrates a diverse landscape shaped by its category segmentation, primarily divided into Conventional and Organic categories. The market has shown a robust interest in organic Manuka honey, driven by rising health consciousness and demand for natural products among consumers. Organic variants are perceived as healthier and more environmentally friendly, capturing significant attention from health-conscious individuals and boosting the overall market growth. Conversely, conventional Manuka honey, while still popular, tends to appeal to budget-conscious consumers, providing a cost-effective alternative to its organic counterpart.Each category offers unique attributes, with organic honey commanding a premium due to its sustainable farming practices, thus appealing to consumers who prioritize ecological concerns alongside quality. The continued growth of the UK Manuka Honey Market hinges on various factors, including increased awareness of the health benefits associated with Manuka honey, coupled with changing consumer preferences towards natural products, paving the way for opportunities across both conventional and organic segments. The UK government has acknowledged the significance of honey production in addressing food security and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, further supporting the industry’s expansion.

Manuka Honey Market Distribution Channel Insights

The UK Manuka Honey Market is significantly influenced by its Distribution Channel, which encompasses both Store-Based and Non-Store-Based channels. Store-Based channels, including supermarkets and health food stores, have traditionally dominated the distribution landscape, allowing consumers to physically inspect products before purchase, thus enhancing trust and encouraging impulse buying, particularly in a market where quality is paramount. In contrast, Non-Store-Based channels, which include online retailers and direct-to-consumer sales, have seen notable growth due to the increasing preference for convenience and the expanding digital landscape.The rise of e-commerce has opened up new opportunities for sales, providing consumers with access to a broader range of Manuka honey products, further driving market expansion. As health awareness increases and consumers seek premium products, the segmentation between these channels becomes crucial to cater to diverse shopping preferences. Continuous advancements in logistics and delivery for Non-Store-Based distribution are likely to enhance its appeal, while traditional Store-Based methods need to adapt to changing consumer behaviors to maintain relevance in the UK's evolving market environment.

UK Manuka Honey Market Key Players and Competitive Insights:

The UK Manuka Honey Market has seen significant growth in recent years, fueled by an increasing awareness of the health benefits associated with this unique type of honey. Manuka honey is renowned for its antibacterial properties and is often sought after for its potential to aid in various health concerns. As a result, numerous companies have entered the market, each vying for a share of the lucrative segment that appeals to health-conscious consumers. The competitive landscape is characterized by a range of players offering products that vary in quality, packaging, and pricing, creating a dynamic environment where brand reputation and marketing strategies play crucial roles in influencing consumer choices. This growing demand has encouraged existing companies to innovate and expand while also inviting new entrants, thereby intensifying competition within the sector.Kiva has established a significant presence in the UK Manuka Honey Market through its strong commitment to quality and authenticity. The company sources its honey directly from New Zealand, ensuring that it meets the stringent standards required for Manuka honey. Kiva's products are well-regarded for their high Unique Manuka Factor (UMF) ratings, which highlight their potency and effectiveness. This attention to quality, combined with attractive packaging and clear labeling, has resonated with health-conscious consumers in the UK. Kiva’s strategy also includes educating consumers about the benefits of Manuka honey and its various uses, further enhancing its brand positioning. The company has been successful in creating a loyal customer base that values transparency and premium quality, contributing positively to its market reputation.Wedderspoon has carved out a niche in the UK Manuka Honey Market with its range of raw and unpasteurized honey products, appealing to a diverse audience seeking natural health solutions. The company is known for its commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainability, which has become increasingly important to UK consumers. Wedderspoon offers a variety of Manuka honey products with different UMF ratings, catering to various consumer preferences and needs. The brand has effectively leveraged online platforms for marketing and distribution, making it accessible to a broad consumer base. Furthermore, Wedderspoon has pursued strategic partnerships and collaborations in recent years to expand its market presence and product offerings. This approach has allowed the company to enhance its product range, while its focus on quality and sustainability has solidified its position as a trusted name in the sector.

Key Companies in the UK Manuka Honey Market Include:

Kiva

Wedderspoon

Manuka Health

Wildflower Honey

HoneyTree

The Little Honey Company

The Bee Company

Real Raw Honey

BEAR

Yummy Honey

The Honey Company

Comvita

Happy Valley

UK Manuka Honey Market Industry Developments

The UK Manuka Honey Market has seen notable activity recently, particularly with companies like Comvita and Manuka Health expanding their operations and product lines. Comvita announced a strategic initiative in September 2023 to enhance their supply chain for high-quality Manuka Honey, focusing on sustainability and traceability. In July 2023, Wedderspoon launched a new product range that includes infused Manuka Honey, catering to the growing consumer trend for health-focused foods. Market valuation has experienced significant growth, driven by increasing consumer awareness of health benefits associated with Manuka Honey, with estimates suggesting a rise of approximately 15% in the sector within the last year.

Additionally, mergers and acquisitions have been scarce recently, with no notable transactions reported for the aforementioned companies in the current year. The market overall is witnessing a robust demand as consumers prioritize natural and functional foods. In the past two years, notable events included the general surge in health product sales amid the pandemic, particularly in March 2021 when there was a heightened focus on immune support products. Key players are poised to capitalize on ongoing health trends as the market evolves.

UK Manuka Honey Market Segmentation Insights

Manuka Honey Market Product Type Outlook

MGO 83

MGO 263

MGO 514

MGO 829

Others

Manuka Honey Market Category Outlook

Conventional

Organic

Manuka Honey Market Distribution Channel Outlook

Store-Based

Non-Store-Based

 

Report Scope:

Report Attribute/Metric Source:	Details
MARKET SIZE 2018	32.0(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2024	34.5(USD Million)
MARKET SIZE 2035	86.5(USD Million)
COMPOUND ANNUAL GROWTH RATE (CAGR)	8.715% (2025 - 2035)
REPORT COVERAGE	Revenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
BASE YEAR	2024
MARKET FORECAST PERIOD	2025 - 2035
HISTORICAL DATA	2019 - 2024
MARKET FORECAST UNITS	USD Million
KEY COMPANIES PROFILED	Kiva, Wedderspoon, Manuka Health, Wildflower Honey, HoneyTree, The Little Honey Company, The Bee Company, Real Raw Honey, BEAR, Yummy Honey, The Honey Company, Comvita, Happy Valley
SEGMENTS COVERED	Product Type, Category, Distribution Channel
KEY MARKET OPPORTUNITIES	Growing health-conscious consumer base, Increasing demand for natural remedies, Expanding online retail channels, Rising awareness of Manuka benefits, Potential for premium product differentiation
KEY MARKET DYNAMICS	Growing health consciousness, Demand for natural products, Premium pricing strategies, Regulatory quality standards, Unique selling proposition
COUNTRIES COVERED	UK