As 2026 begins, trend forecasts indicate that nostalgia-driven flavour profiles will once again play a defining role across a wide spectrum of product categories. From teas and granolas to chocolate bars, spirits, and sugar confectionery, the market’s appetite for timeless dessert-inspired creations shows no sign of slowing. These familiar flavours evoke comfort and reassurance – offering consumers a sensory link to simpler, more carefree times.
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In line with this shift, heritage brand Stockley’s continues to harness the power of nostalgia within its speciality sweet carton range. Following the success of its 2025 launch, Jam Roly Poly & Custard, which quickly garnered a loyal following, the company is poised to introduce Lemon Meringue as its signature flavour for 2026. This latest addition delivers a contemporary twist on the classic dessert, featuring a delicate lemon and vanilla shell encasing a tangy citrus centre – a harmonious balance of sharpness and sweetness designed to delight modern palates.
Andy Valentine, Head of Marketing at Stockley’s, attributes the brand’s innovation to a combination of economic and creative factors shaping the confectionery sector. “A perfect storm of spiralling chocolate prices over the past 18 months, together with a growing appetite for strong, playful flavours and fun sharing formats, has fuelled confectionery’s resurgence,” he explains. “Our research shows that Lemon Meringue captures the perfect sweet spot – appealing both to younger consumers seeking a lively, zesty hit and to older audiences drawn by the nostalgic comfort of familiar favourites.”
With nostalgic flavour marriages continuing to drive category growth, 2026 is expected to see confectionery brands further embrace retro reinterpretations that bridge generations proving that sometimes, the sweetest inspiration comes from the past.
