The U.S. market for chocolate products displayed its recession resiliency, as retail sales increased 3% from 2008 to reach a record $17 billion in 2009, according to Chocolate Market in the U.S.: Trends and Opportunities in Premium, Gourmet and Mass Chocolate Products by market research publisher Packaged Facts. The growth was attributed to the 75% of Americans who have purchased chocolate products since 2008 and increases in manufacturer prices, which didn't discourage budget-conscious households from buying quality chocolate as an affordable indulgence.
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