Introduction – United Kingdom’s Syrup Market: A Quantitative Overview
The United Kingdom is more than just a tea-loving nation—it’s a significant player in the global syrup market. Whether it’s glucose syrup used in food manufacturing or the sweet, golden richness of maple syrup poured over pancakes, syrup production and trade are on the rise in the UK.
In 2023 alone, the UK exported over $11 million worth of glucose syrups, with Ireland being the top importer. Meanwhile, maple syrup imports hit $29.1 million, mainly sourced from Canada, indicating strong consumer demand. The flavored syrup market is no slouch either, valued at $2.4 billion in 2021, and projected to reach $3.4 billion by 2030, growing steadily at 4% CAGR.
This growth highlights a key truth: data-driven sourcing is no longer optional—it’s essential. Businesses need verified, export-ready suppliers supported by strong performance metrics. Platforms like Freshdi empower buyers with real-time data, supplier reviews, and RFQ trends to make informed purchasing decisions.
Let’s take a closer look at how the UK syrup market is evolving, and who the top suppliers are as we head into 2025.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Demand Insights
When it comes to syrup, the UK market is diverse and expanding. Let’s break it down:
Glucose Syrups
- 2023 Exports: $11 million
- Top Markets: Ireland ($6.7M), Netherlands ($1.2M), Iceland ($0.5M)
Maple Syrup
- 2023 Imports: $29.1 million, 4.27 million kg
- Main Sources: Canada ($24.6M), Denmark ($3.3M)
- 2023 Exports: $2.82 million (up 1.03% YoY)
Flavored Syrups
- 2021 Market Value: $2.4 billion
- 2030 Forecast: $3.4 billion
- Fastest-Growing Flavor: Chocolate
Protein & Flavored Sugar Syrups
- 2035 Forecast: $1.4 billion market value
- Growth Rate: 0.3% CAGR in value
What’s important here is not just the numbers—but what they mean for buyers. Platforms like Freshdi show increasing RFQs (Request for Quotations) for chocolate and fruit-flavored syrups. This aligns with market forecasts and helps buyers plan sourcing strategies around real demand data.
Top 7 Verified Syrup Suppliers in United Kingdom – Proven Export Performers
Finding a reliable supplier isn’t just about price. You want proven exporters with good reputations, global certifications, and export-ready logistics. Based on Freshdi’s supplier data and verified buyer reviews, here are the Top 7 Syrup Suppliers in the United Kingdom for 2025:
1. EXOTREAT FLAVORS
A leader in high-maltose syrup production, EXOTREAT FLAVORS has built a strong export presence across Europe and Asia. Known for consistent quality, food-grade certifications, and scalable volumes, they’re a go-to for industrial and retail buyers alike.
2. Tate & Lyle
A household name in the UK, Tate & Lyle exports a wide range of syrups including glucose, golden syrup, and flavored variants. Their recent acquisition of CP Kelco strengthens their position in specialty ingredients like pectin and gums—ideal for buyers seeking innovation and scale. Tate & Lyle
3. Ragus Sugars Manufacturing Limited
With over 90 years of experience, Ragus specializes in manufacturing and exporting pure sugar syrups, custom blends, and invert sugars. Their BRC and ISO certifications make them a reliable partner for food manufacturers and confectionery brands. Ragus
4. Sweet Additions UK
Sweet Additions offers a versatile line of flavored syrups including chocolate, vanilla, and fruit infusions. They have a strong footprint in both foodservice and beverage industries, supplying to cafes, restaurants, and bottling companies. Sweet Additions
5. Rayner’s Foods
Focused on natural and organic syrups, Rayner’s is a favorite among health-conscious retailers. They specialize in agave, maple, and carob syrup—all certified organic and sustainably sourced. Rayner’s
6. Silver Spoon (British Sugar)
A subsidiary of ABF, Silver Spoon is best known for manufacturing golden syrup and other retail-friendly syrup products. Their wide distribution network makes them a strong export candidate. Silver Spoon
7. Treatt PLC
Though primarily an ingredient solutions provider, Treatt also formulates natural flavorings and syrups for beverages. Their R&D-backed custom syrup solutions are in high demand among premium drink brands. Treatt
Dynamic Ranking Note
Keep in mind, supplier rankings can shift based on quarterly export volumes, buyer reviews, and RFQ trends. Platforms like Freshdi offer dynamic rankings such as “Supplier of the Month” or “Top Export Performer,” reflecting real-time performance rather than static assumptions.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Price Insights & Export Dynamics
Navigating the syrup market isn’t just about choosing a supplier—it’s about understanding the undercurrents of demand and price.
Demand Trends by Syrup Type
- Chocolate-Flavored Syrups: Fastest-growing due to beverage market demand.
- Fruit-Flavored Syrups: Still dominant in bakery and ice cream industries.
- Maple Syrup: Increasing demand from organic and natural food sectors.
- Glucose Syrup: Steady demand in industrial food production and confectionery.
Seasonal Price Variations
Syrup prices often fluctuate with harvest seasons (for maple and cane syrups) and global sugar costs. For example:
- Q4 (Oct-Dec): Prices tend to rise due to holiday demand for bakery and beverages.
- Q2 (Apr-Jun): Often sees a dip as inventories are replenished post-winter sales.
Using Historical Data for Smarter Buying
Platforms like Freshdi provide historical pricing tools. This helps buyers track year-on-year trends and predict optimal purchasing windows—saving costs and avoiding peak pricing.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Strategic Sourcing
The UK syrup market is not just robust—it’s evolving. With exports growing and imports becoming more diversified, the opportunity for businesses to tap into this sweet sector has never been better.
But success isn’t just about finding syrup—it’s about finding the right supplier. Those with proven export records, certifications, and capacity to scale.
That’s where platforms like Freshdi come in. From real-time RFQ trends and supplier verification to dynamic performance rankings and trade data, Freshdi empowers businesses to source smarter and faster.
As 2025 unfolds, let data be your compass in the syrup sourcing journey.
Key Takeaways
- The UK exported over $11 million in glucose syrup and imported $29.1 million in maple syrup in 2023.
- The flavored syrup market is projected to hit $3.4 billion by 2030.
- Top suppliers include EXOTREAT FLAVORS, Tate & Lyle, and Ragus Sugars.
- Price trends and demand vary by syrup type—always check seasonal and historical data.
- Freshdi is an essential tool for market insights, supplier verification, and strategic sourcing.
Buyer’s Checklist – Sourcing Syrup from the UK
✅ Does the supplier have verified export performance?
✅ Are certifications like BRC, ISO, or Organic in place?
✅ Does the syrup match your flavor or concentration requirements?
✅ Can the supplier handle bulk logistics?
✅ Have you reviewed seasonal pricing trends on platforms like Freshdi?
Future Outlook – What’s Next for the UK Syrup Market?
Looking ahead, we expect:
- Continued growth in chocolate and natural syrup demand.
- Rise of functional syrups (protein, energy-enhanced).
- More transparency and traceability in sourcing.
- Increased use of AI platforms like Freshdi to automate supplier discovery and negotiation.
How Freshdi Empowers Buyers
- Verified Supplier Profiles: Know who you’re dealing with.
- RFQ Tools: Send quotes to multiple suppliers with one click.
- Market Trends: Understand what’s hot and what’s not.
- Export History: See which suppliers are actually exporting.
- Dynamic Rankings: Real-time insights into top performers.
References
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WITS World Bank – Glucose Syrup Exports
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WITS World Bank – Maple Syrup Imports
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Tridge – Maple Syrup Export Data
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Grand View Research – UK Flavored Syrup Market
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IndexBox – Protein Syrup Forecast
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Tate & Lyle Acquisition News
FAQs
1. What types of syrup are in highest demand in the UK?
Chocolate and fruit-flavored syrups are dominating the market, with maple syrup gaining popularity in the organic segment.
2. How can I verify if a syrup supplier is reliable?
Platforms like Freshdi offer verification tools, export data, and buyer reviews to assess supplier credibility.
3. Are UK syrup suppliers export-ready for global markets?
Yes, many top suppliers are BRC, ISO certified and have strong export histories, especially to EU and North America.
4. When is the best time to buy syrup in bulk?
Avoid Q4 when prices peak due to holiday demand. Historical data on Freshdi suggests Q2 is often cost-effective.
5. Can I get custom syrup formulations from UK suppliers?
Yes, companies like Treatt and EXOTREAT FLAVORS offer R&D services for tailored flavor and functional blends.
