U.S. Potato Chips Market Summary

The U.S. potato chips market size was valued at USD 10.07 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.7% from 2024 to 2030. The increasing inclination toward convenience-based snacking and on-the-go food consumption is one of the primary factors driving demand for potato chips in the country. Potato chips are recognized as a quick, satisfying, and ready-to-eat snack option that does not require any preparation, making them an appealing choice for individuals with busy lifestyles, students, working professionals, and families seeking casual snacking options. Their long shelf life further enhances their practicality.

Another significant driver contributing to the expanding demand is the continuous innovation and diversification within the potato chips market. Manufacturers are consistently introducing new flavors, textures, and healthier variants to meet the evolving preferences of consumers. This includes reduced-fat and low-sodium options, baked chips, and products made from organic or natural ingredients. Such innovations help appeal to health-conscious consumers while maintaining the attention of those who prefer indulgent flavors. The affordability and extensive availability of potato chips also reinforce their popularity, as they are stocked across grocery stores, convenience outlets, supermarkets, and vending machines throughout the U.S., making them a preferred impulse-buy product across all age groups.

Key Market Trends & Insights

  • The fried potato chips segment dominated the market, holding a share of 59.1% in 2023. Fried potato chips remain popular primarily due to their distinctive crispy texture and savory taste, which continues to appeal to consumers seeking indulgent and flavorful snack choices. Their traditional preparation method and sensory appeal make them one of the most consumed snack products.
  • In terms of flavor, plain/salted potato chips led the market in 2023. Their widespread acceptance is attributed to their simplicity and classic flavor profile, which resonates with a large consumer base. Many snackers prefer the straightforward, lightly salted taste as it offers versatility—whether enjoyed on its own or paired with dips, spreads, or other complementary foods during social gatherings and casual occasions.
  • Among distribution channels, the supermarket/hypermarket segment dominated the market in 2023. These outlets provide consumers with access to an extensive assortment of potato chip brands and varieties within a single shopping destination. Supermarkets and hypermarkets further benefit from bulk purchasing and strategic supplier partnerships, allowing them to provide consumers with competitive prices and promotional offers. Their wide geographical reach and trust among households make them a preferred retail channel for potato chips.
  • The online sales channel, however, is projected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period. The rising popularity of e-commerce is reshaping consumer purchasing behavior, with many shoppers opting for the convenience of browsing and buying snacks online. Digital platforms offer greater variety, subscription models, doorstep delivery, and promotional deals, making them an attractive choice. Additionally, the increasing use of smartphones and secure digital payment systems is accelerating the adoption of online platforms for snack purchases in the U.S.

Order a free sample PDF of the U.S. Potato Chips Market Intelligence Study, published by Grand View Research.

Market Size & Forecast

  • 2023 Market Size: USD 10.07 billion
  • 2030 Projected Market Size: USD 14.78 billion
  • CAGR (2024 - 2030): 5.7%

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

Some of the key companies include Barcel USA, Better Made Snacks Food, PepsiCo, Kellanova, Utz Brands, Inc.

  • Barcel USA provides a wide range of kettle-cooked potato chips in its Artisan Style line available in several flavors such as fuego, lime-chipotle, jalapeno, habanero, and diabla. The Delicious range of flavors attract children and teenage consumers in the U.S.
  • Better Made Snacks Food uses high-quality potatoes, salt, and cottonseed oil to ensure the freshness of their products. Customers have the option to purchase directly from the factory, obtaining chips that are just hours old, or have them delivered to any location worldwide. Better Made has the capacity to process over 60 million pounds of potatoes each year, with a production process that turns them into chips in about seven minutes.

Key Players

  • PepsiCo
  • Kellanova
  • Utz Brands, Inc.
  • Campbell Soup Company
  • Herr's
  • Wise Snacks
  • Intersnack Foods GmbH & Co. KG
  • Clayton Dubilier & Rice
  • Better Made Snack Foods
  • Barcel USA

Explore Horizon Databook – The world's most expansive market intelligence platform developed by Grand View Research.

Conclusion

The U.S. potato chips market is poised for strong growth, driven by changing consumer lifestyles, rising demand for convenient snacks, and ongoing product innovations. The dominance of fried chips and plain/salted flavors shows the enduring appeal of traditional preferences, while the emergence of baked and healthier alternatives reflects shifting consumer priorities. Distribution channels such as supermarkets maintain their importance, but rapid growth in online platforms highlights evolving purchasing behaviors. With leading manufacturers introducing new flavors, premium offerings, and health-oriented options, potato chips are expected to remain a staple of the U.S. snacking culture, ensuring long-term market expansion.