Growth in Mexican Healthy Snack Market
In the snacks market in Mexico, pistachios maintain a positive performance with an estimated growth of around 12% in 2025 compared to the previous year, driven by the trend towards healthier options.
Pistachios as a Premium Nut
According to a survey conducted by Wonderful Pistachios, an American company specializing in pistachio production and marketing, pistachios ranked as the second premium nut consumed in Mexico, just behind almonds and above other nuts like those from India, macadamia, or Brazil.
Nutritional Value and Versatility
Michelle Driessen, Marketing Manager at Wonderful Pistachios Mexico, explained that pistachios are a versatile snack rich in vitamins and minerals. For every 100 grams, they provide 21 grams of protein and 10 grams of fiber. Pistachios are popular in gatherings as a snack to share and have also gained space as an ingredient in various preparations.
Strategic Market for Wonderful Pistachios
Although Mexico is not among Wonderful Pistachios’ strongest markets, it has become one of the most strategic for both brand and category development.
Investments in Marketing
Despite a challenging year, the company announced they will maintain strong marketing investments to sustain planned growth above 10% in 2026. These investments have been allocated to logistics and distribution areas, with $1.3 million spent on communication, marketing campaigns, and brand launches in the past year.
Brand Expansion and Product Diversification
Wonderful Pistachios has been in Mexico for eight years, and since 2020, sales have nearly doubled. They anticipate continued double-digit growth over the next five years, aiming to sell more than 2 million pounds (approximately 907 tonnes) of pistachios in the country this year.
The company plans to further diversify its product portfolio, which currently includes in-shell and out-of-shell pistachios, salted, low-sodium, spicy, and flavored varieties in various packaging options.
Presence Across Sales Channels
Wonderful Pistachios’ expansion has been supported by its presence across various sales channels, from price clubs like Sam’s Club and Costco to supermarkets including Walmart, Chedraui, Soriana, H-E-B, regional chains, and convenience stores like OXXO and 7-Eleven.
“A significant portion of our growth is due to the product’s availability in more stores and across all states,” Driessen explained.
Competition and Market Potential
The Mexican pistachio market remains concentrated in modern channels, where Wonderful Pistachios holds 75% of the market share. However, the company aims to gain participation in other nut categories.
“There’s still a lot of growth potential, which is why The Wonderful Company is investing in Mexico as a development market for the brand and category,” Driessen said.
She noted that Mexican consumers are open to trying new products, and the market is always innovative. With close ties to the United States, there’s significant consumer similarity and development potential.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is driving the growth of pistachios in Mexico? The trend towards healthier snack options is driving the double-digit growth of pistachios in Mexico.
- Where do pistachios rank among premium nuts in Mexico? Pistachios are the second most consumed premium nut in Mexico, just behind almonds.
- What makes pistachios a versatile snack? Pistachios are rich in protein and fiber, making them a nutritious snack option. They’re also popular in gatherings and used as ingredients in various preparations.
- How is Wonderful Pistachios investing in the Mexican market? The company is investing in marketing and logistics to sustain growth, with plans for product diversification and expansion across sales channels.
- What is the market share of Wonderful Pistachios in Mexico? Wonderful Pistachios holds 75% of the market share in modern channels, the primary sales segment for pistachios in Mexico.
- What is the growth potential for pistachios in Mexico? There’s significant growth potential in the Mexican pistachio market, driven by consumer openness to new products and innovation.
