Cookware Market Overview, 2023-28

The cookware industry has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years, adapting to changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and sustainability concerns. What was once a simple necessity for preparing meals has now become a dynamic and innovative sector, offering a wide range of products designed to enhance the cooking experience. Cookware has been an integral part of human civilization for centuries. Traditional cookware, such as clay pots and cast iron skillets, has been used across different cultures and regions. These materials offered durability and heat retention, allowing for effective cooking methods. With the advent of the Industrial Revolution and advancements in metallurgy, the cookware industry saw a shift towards modern materials. Stainless steel, aluminum, and nonstick coatings emerged as popular choices due to their durability, even heat distribution, and ease of cleaning. This transition marked the beginning of a new era in cookware manufacturing. The industry is also deeply rooted in innovation and technology. Manufacturers continually strive to improve the performance of cookware by leveraging modern materials, such as stainless steel and nonstick coatings, and incorporating innovative features like heat sensors and connectivity for smart cooking. Cookware manufacturers are influenced by the diverse culinary traditions from around the world. The culture of the industry embraces the idea that cooking is a universal language, and as a result, there is a growing demand for specialized cookware that caters to international cuisines and cooking techniques. The culture of the cookware industry places a strong emphasis on meeting the needs and preferences of consumers. Customization options, transparency in sourcing, and responsive customer service are all key aspects of this consumer-centric approach. Cookware brands often serve as sources of culinary education and inspiration for consumers. They produce cookbooks, cooking shows, and digital content that encourage people to explore new recipes and cooking techniques. Quality and craftsmanship are at the core of the industry's culture. Manufacturers prioritize continuous improvement, conducting rigorous testing and quality control to ensure that cookware products meet high standards of performance and durability.

According to the research report, “Global Cookware Market Overview, 2023-28” the market is anticipated to cross USD 35 Billion by 2028, increasing from USD 25.12 Billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow with 6.79% CAGR by 2023-28. A significant driver in the industry is the growing emphasis on health and wellness. Consumers are increasingly conscious of their dietary choices and are seeking cookware that allows them to prepare healthier meals with less oil and fats. The global culinary landscape has expanded, and consumers are experimenting with diverse cuisines. This has led to a demand for specialized cookware designed for specific cooking techniques and international dishes. Environmental concerns have prompted a shift towards sustainable cookware. Manufacturers are adopting eco-friendly materials and production processes to reduce their carbon footprint and meet consumer demand for greener alternatives. The rise of e-commerce platforms has transformed how consumers shop for cookware. Online retailers offer convenience and a wider selection, allowing consumers to explore various options and read reviews before making a purchase. The emergence of smart cookware with integrated sensors and connectivity features is revolutionizing the industry. These high-tech kitchen tools enable precise and convenient cooking with the help of smartphones and smart home systems. Cookware brands are offering customization options, allowing consumers to choose products tailored to their preferences in terms of size, color, and even engraved designs. Personalized cookware adds a unique touch to kitchen spaces. Consumers are increasingly seeking cookware products with sustainability certifications and ethical sourcing of materials. Brands that prioritize eco-friendly practices and transparency are gaining consumer trust. Cookware subscription services are gaining popularity, offering consumers the opportunity to experiment with different cookware items without long-term commitments. This trend reflects a shift towards flexible and experiential shopping.

Based on the regions, North America is expected to grow with prominent CAGR during the forecast period. Innovative shapes and multi-functionality are low on the priority list of consumers in North America, where more classic and traditional designs mainly influence cookware trends. Customers in North America prefer riveted handles made of sturdier materials like steel. They also favour darker hues like black, grey, and metal, with almost exclusively red being used as a pop of colour. The use of frosted colours with a metallic appearance (gold, copper, or gray/silver), which are also used for the coatings of the pans, is a developing trend in this market for handles and grips. North American consumers are increasingly focusing on health and wellness, leading to a growing demand for cookware that supports healthier cooking practices. This includes non-stick cookware for reduced oil usage, which aligns with health-conscious lifestyles. The North American region is home to diverse culinary traditions, with people exploring international cuisines. This trend has led to a demand for specialized cookware designed for cooking a wide range of dishes, from Italian pasta to Asian stir-fries. In addition to that, North America is known for its innovation-driven culture. Consumers in the region embrace new technologies and kitchen gadgets, including smart cookware with connectivity features. This technological enthusiasm drives the adoption of high-tech cookware products. North American cookware companies often adopt a consumer-centric approach, focusing on customization options and responsive customer service. This aligns with the region's culture of valuing individual preferences and feedback. Also, North America generally has a higher average disposable income compared to many other regions. This financial stability allows consumers to invest in high-quality cookware products, including premium and innovative options. The region's fascination with culinary exploration is further fuelled by cookware companies that provide culinary education and inspiration through cookbooks, cooking shows, and digital content. The growing population in North America, along with an increasing number of households, contributes to a steady demand for cookware. As more people prepare meals at home, the need for quality cookware continues to rise.

Based on the product type, the global cookware market is segmented into pots and pans, cooking tools, ovenware, pressure cooker and others including cast iron cookware etc. Among them, ovenware is projected to grow with prominent growth rate during the forecast period. Ovenware, such as baking dishes and roasting pans, offers versatility in cooking methods. These products can be used for baking, roasting, broiling, and even as serving dishes. Their multi-functionality appeals to consumers seeking convenient and space-saving cookware options. There has been a notable resurgence in baking, with more people trying their hands at baking bread, cakes, and pastries at home. Ovenware is essential for baking enthusiasts, and the popularity of baking has led to increased demand for these products. Oven cooking is often associated with healthier cooking methods. Roasting vegetables, for example, requires minimal oil, making it a preferred choice for health-conscious consumers. Ovenware allows for cooking with less added fat, aligning with dietary preferences. The global trend of cooking more meals at home, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has boosted the demand for ovenware. Consumers are investing in quality baking and roasting pans to prepare restaurant-quality meals in their own kitchens. In addition to that, manufacturers are introducing premium and specialty ovenware products, including enameled cast iron Dutch ovens and stoneware bakeware. These high-end options cater to consumers willing to invest in quality cookware for superior cooking results. Ovenware is frequently used during holidays and special occasions for cooking traditional dishes and large meals. The seasonality of these occasions contributes to the consistent demand for ovenware products.

The global cookware market is further segmented into various materials including stainless steel, aluminum, glass and others including fiber, ceramic & plastics etc. Aluminum is known for its exceptional heat conductivity. It heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly across the cooking surface. This property allows for precise temperature control and even cooking, making it a preferred material for cookware. Aluminum cookware's excellent heat conductivity reduces cooking times and energy consumption. Consumers are increasingly conscious of energy efficiency, and aluminum cookware aligns with their desire for more sustainable cooking practices. Aluminum cookware is lightweight and easy to handle. Chefs appreciate the ease of maneuvering pots and pans, especially in busy commercial kitchens. Home cooks also value the convenience of lightweight cookware. Also, aluminum cookware is often more affordable than cookware made from other materials, such as stainless steel or copper. This affordability makes it accessible to a wide range of consumers, including those on a budget. Aluminum cookware typically has a non-reactive surface that doesn't interact with acidic or alkaline ingredients. This non-reactive quality ensures that the taste and color of dishes are not altered during cooking. Modern aluminum cookware is often coated with nonstick or hard-anodized layers, which enhance its durability and corrosion resistance. This makes it suitable for long-term use and reduces the risk of rust or corrosion. Aluminum is commonly used as the base material for nonstick cookware. Nonstick coatings, such as Teflon, make cooking and cleaning easier, appealing to consumers seeking convenience in the kitchen.

Based on the commercial application, the global food service industry, including restaurants, cafes, catering services, and hotels, is expanding rapidly. As more consumers dine out and order food, there is a continuous demand for high-quality, durable cookware in commercial kitchens to prepare and serve meals efficiently. The hospitality sector, which includes hotels and resorts, relies heavily on cookware for catering to guests' dining needs. The growth of the tourism industry and increased travel has led to a surge in demand for cookware in hospitality establishments. The culinary world is witnessing a surge in new restaurant ventures, including diverse cuisine concepts and fine dining experiences. Each new restaurant requires a full set of commercial cookware, contributing to the sustained demand in this segment. The rise of commercial kitchens and cloud kitchens, which focus on food delivery and takeout, has increased the need for professional-grade cookware. These kitchens require durable and efficient cookware for high-volume cooking. In the commercial sector, it is common practice to replace and upgrade cookware regularly to maintain high standards of hygiene and performance. Many establishments replace their cookware within specific timeframes, leading to consistent demand. Commercial kitchens often require specialized cookware for specific cooking techniques, such as woks for Asian stir-frying or large stockpots for soups and stews. The demand for such specialized products drives growth in this segment. Commercial kitchens must adhere to strict health and safety regulations. Cookware that meets these standards, such as non-reactive stainless steel, is essential in these environments. Commercial cookware manufacturers are incorporating technological advancements, such as nonstick coatings and heat-resistant handles, to improve efficiency and safety in commercial kitchens.

The e-commerce sector has witnessed tremendous growth in recent years, driven by convenience, accessibility, and a wide range of product choices. Consumers increasingly prefer online shopping, and cookware is no exception. Online sales provide unmatched convenience, allowing consumers to browse, compare, and purchase cookware products from the comfort of their homes. The availability of products 24/7 appeals to busy lifestyles. Online platforms offer a vast and diverse selection of cookware brands, materials, designs, and price points. Consumers can easily explore a wide range of options and find products that suit their specific needs and preferences. Online retailers provide comprehensive product information, including specifications, customer reviews, and ratings. This transparency helps consumers make informed decisions and select cookware that aligns with their requirements. Online shopping enables consumers to compare prices across different sellers quickly. This transparency encourages competitive pricing among retailers, ensuring that consumers can find the best deals. Online platforms feature customer reviews and recommendations, which play a significant role in influencing purchasing decisions. Positive reviews build trust and confidence in the quality of cookware products. Some online platforms offer customization options, allowing consumers to personalize cookware items, such as engraved names or designs. This level of customization adds a unique touch to kitchen tools. Online sales channels provide access to a global marketplace. Consumers can purchase cookware products from international brands and sellers, expanding their options beyond local retail stores. Online retailers often provide cooking tips, guides, and video demonstrations, enhancing consumer knowledge about cookware usage, maintenance, and recipes. This educational content fosters informed decision-making. Online sales channels frequently offer exclusive promotions, discounts, and seasonal sales events. These incentives attract cost-conscious consumers seeking value for their money. Most reputable online retailers have flexible return and refund policies, which reduce the perceived risk of online shopping. This reassurance encourages consumers to try cookware products without hesitation. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of online shopping for cookware and other household products due to lockdowns and social distancing measures, and this shift is expected to continue.

Market Drivers

• Urbanization and Compact Living Spaces: Urbanization trends have led to smaller living spaces, particularly in densely populated urban areas. As a result, consumers are seeking compact and versatile cookware solutions that maximize space utilization. Cookware manufacturers are responding with space-saving designs, stackable sets, and multifunctional cookware that can serve multiple purposes. This trend addresses the needs of urban dwellers with limited kitchen space.
• Culinary Diversity and International Cooking: There is a growing interest in culinary diversity and international cuisine. Consumers are exploring global flavors and cooking techniques, leading to a demand for specialized cookware. Cookware companies are introducing products tailored to specific cuisines, such as woks for Asian stir-frying or tagines for Middle Eastern cooking. This driver has created a niche market for specialized cookware that enhances the authenticity of international dishes.

Market Challenges

• Regulatory Compliance and Food Safety: Ensuring cookware materials comply with food safety regulations and standards is a significant challenge. Some materials may release harmful substances when exposed to high temperatures or acidic ingredients. Cookware manufacturers must invest in research and development to produce cookware that meets stringent food safety requirements. This challenge is vital for consumer health and trust in cookware products.
• Supply Chain Disruptions and Raw Material Costs: The cookware industry, like many others, faces supply chain disruptions and fluctuations in raw material costs. Events such as the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted vulnerabilities in the supply chain. Manufacturers may experience delays in production and increased costs, which can affect pricing and product availability. Managing a resilient supply chain and mitigating cost fluctuations are ongoing challenges for the industry.

Market Trends

• Sustainability Certifications and Ethical Sourcing: Sustainability certifications and ethical sourcing of materials are becoming more prevalent in the cookware market. Consumers are seeking products with transparency about sourcing and manufacturing practices. Cookware brands that prioritize sustainable sourcing, eco-friendly materials and ethical labor practices are gaining consumer trust and loyalty. Certifications like Fair Trade and organic labels are increasingly sought after.
• Cookware Subscription Services: Cookware subscription services are emerging as a convenient way for consumers to access high-quality cookware. These services offer the opportunity to try different cookware products without a long-term commitment. Subscribers can experiment with various cookware items and discover which ones suit their cooking needs. This trend reflects a shift towards flexible and experiential consumer shopping preferences.

Covid-19 Impacts

The consumer goods industry has experienced significant impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The cookware industry, in particular, has faced challenges during this crisis. The disruption of supply chains has had adverse effects on manufacturing and distribution processes, leading to issues such as pay reductions for factory workers. Lockdown measures and stay-at-home orders have deterred people from venturing outside to purchase cookware, resulting in a decline in overall industry performance. Major commercial end users of cookware, including hotels, restaurants, and fast-food retailers, have been severely affected by the lockdown situation, leading to a halt in demand for cookware products. The closure of physical retail outlets during the initial phases of the pandemic had caused disruptions in the supply and demand dynamics of the cookware market across various regions. However, as lockdown restrictions have gradually eased, physical retail outlets have reopened, and there is a positive shift in consumer purchasing behaviour toward cookware. Additionally, there is a growing trend in the sales of personalized cookware products, catering to individual preferences. The rapid expansion of online distribution channels, especially in developing countries, is expected to drive the recovery and growth of the global cookware market in the forecast period.

Competitive Landscape

Prominent players in the cookware market are making significant contributions by offering a diverse range of products and expanding their global presence. Some of the noteworthy companies in this market include Groupe SEB, Wonderchef Home Appliances Pvt. Ltd, Meyer Corporation, Fissler, Newell Brands Inc., Scanpan, Inc., TTK Prestige, The Vollrath Co., L.L.C., Hawkins Cookers Limited Inc, The Middleby Corporation, Werhahn KG, NingHai LeiNiao Kitchenware Co., Ltd, Vinod Intelligent Cookware, SharkNinja Operating LLC, Stovekraft Limited, Bajaj Electricals, Tramontina, Gorenje Group, Stanley Black & Decker, and Mundial SA, as mentioned in the report. These key market players employ various strategies such as launching new products, forming partnerships, collaborating with others in the industry, engaging in mergers and acquisitions to strengthen their market position. For instance, in October 2019, Calphalon Inc introduced a new line of products designed to enhance gourmet cooking outcomes in the kitchen. These high-performance products provide home chefs with the tools to create precise and exceptional recipes, offering a worry-free cooking experience. The innovative cookware includes features like boil-over protection and self-sharpening nonstick cutlery, making kitchen work more convenient. Similarly, in July 2020, Groupe SEB made an investment in StoreBound, a product innovation company dedicated to collaborating with inventors and licensing partners to develop, produce, and distribute innovative products to retailers globally. This strategic move highlights the commitment of market leaders to fostering innovation and expanding their product portfolios.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Global
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Global Cookware market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Region-wise Cookware market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Regions covered in the report

• North America
• Europe
• Asia-Pacific
• South America
• Middle-East & Africa

By Product Type:

• Pots and pans
• cooking tools
• Ovenware
• Pressure Cooker
• Others (cast iron cookware)

By Material:

• Stainless Steel
• Aluminium
• Glass
• Others (fibre, Ceramic, Plastics)

By Application:

• Household
• Commercial

By Distribution:

• Offline
• Online

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations, and organisations related to the Cookware industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.