Small Kitchen Appliances See Surge in Demand Amid Post-Pandemic Home Cooking Trend

Post-pandemic consumer habits continue to drive strong demand for small kitchen appliances, with products like compact blenders, mini rice cookers, and smart air fryers leading the growth, according to a new report by market research firm Statista.

The report notes that global sales of small kitchen appliances reached $68.7 billion in 2023, a 9% year-on-year increase, and are projected to hit $85.2 billion by 2026. This uptick is largely tied to the lingering popularity of home cooking—even as dining out has rebounded—with consumers prioritizing convenience, space-saving designs, and energy efficiency.

“Consumers are no longer just buying small appliances for basic needs; they want products that fit smaller living spaces, like apartments, and offer multi-functional uses,” said Maria Lopez, a senior analyst at Statista. For example, many new compact blenders now double as food processors, while smart air fryers can connect to mobile apps for recipe suggestions and remote control.

E-commerce has also played a key role in boosting sales. Online channels accounted for 45% of small kitchen appliance purchases in 2023, up from 32% in 2020. Major retailers like Amazon and Walmart have expanded their product lines to include budget-friendly and premium options, catering to diverse consumer groups.

Sustainability is another growing factor. Brands such as Philips and Cuisinart have launched small appliances made with recycled materials, and some models feature energy-saving modes that reduce electricity consumption by up to 30%. A survey included in the report found that 62% of consumers are willing to pay 10-15% more for eco-friendly small kitchen appliances.

However, the market faces challenges, including supply chain disruptions and rising raw material costs. Some manufacturers have responded by shifting production to regions like Southeast Asia to lower expenses, while others have adjusted product prices slightly to maintain profitability.

Despite these hurdles, the outlook remains positive. “As consumers keep valuing home-centric lifestyles, the small kitchen appliance market will stay on a growth trajectory,” Lopez added. “We expect to see more innovative products—such as AI-powered coffee makers that learn user preferences—hit the market in the next two years.”