Knife Market 2033: A Cut Above the Rest

The global knife market was valued at USD 4,482.3 million in 2024 and is forecast to reach USD 7,790.2 million by 2033, registering a CAGR of 6.4% from 2025 to 2033. Growth in the market is largely supported by the expanding number of restaurants and food service establishments across major regions, which continues to increase demand for professional and household knives.

The widening range of knife applications, along with the availability of specialized knives designed for different uses, is further contributing to market expansion. The construction sector, in particular, makes extensive use of retractable and folding knives, and ongoing growth in construction activities is expected to positively influence market demand. In the culinary sector, the growing emphasis on food presentation and visual aesthetics is driving the demand for high-quality kitchen knives. Techniques such as brunoise, chiffonade, julienne, and macedoine cuts have become increasingly popular worldwide, encouraging the use of specialized blades. Additionally, the introduction of technologically advanced knives featuring varied blade designs is expected to support market growth throughout the forecast period.

Rising interest in outdoor recreation, especially camping, is also boosting demand for specialized knives. Commonly used knives in such settings include dagger knives, Swiss Army knives, and pocket knives. Campers often prefer knives made from high-carbon stainless steel due to their durability, lightweight design, secure grip handles, and protective sheaths. Platforms such as The Dyrt, a popular camping application and information source, highlight the growing popularity of camping activities.

According to a camping report published by The Dyrt in 2022, more than 66 million people participated in camping activities in the United States in 2021, with over 8.3 million individuals camping for the first time. During this period, a camper accessed The Dyrt every second, reflecting heightened engagement in outdoor activities. As camping participation increases, demand for related equipment—including camping knives used for food preparation, fire building, and shelter construction—is also rising, thereby supporting knife market growth over the forecast period.

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Key Market Trends & Insights

• Regional Insights: Europe accounted for the largest market share of 32.76% in 2024. Growth in outdoor activities such as camping and hiking is positively influencing knife demand across the region. In countries like Germany, increasing urbanization and rising investments in home renovation projects are driving demand for utility and household knives. Additional growth factors include higher household spending on cookware and cutlery, a strong hospitality industry, and a stay-at-home culture that has encouraged consumers to invest in kitchen essentials.
• Type Insights: The fixed-blade segment dominated the market with a revenue share of 50.66% in 2024. Fixed-blade knives are favored for their strength and durability, making them suitable for demanding outdoor activities such as hunting and wood cutting. They are also widely used in food preparation and as cutlery knives. The growing number of restaurants, increasing dining-out trends, and rising household consumption are key drivers supporting this segment.
• Size Insights: Knives measuring between 6 and 9 inches held the largest market share of 49.27% in 2024. This size range is widely preferred due to its versatility for slicing, chopping, and dicing, making it popular among both home cooks and professional chefs. Increased interest in home cooking and gourmet food preparation, along with strong influence from culinary content on social media platforms, has further driven demand for medium-sized knives.
• Application Insights: Kitchen knives accounted for the largest application share of 46.24% in 2024. Expansion of the global restaurant industry remains a major factor driving demand. Additionally, rising household knife consumption driven by population growth and increased home cooking activities continues to support this segment.
• Distribution Channel Insights: Supermarkets and hypermarkets accounted for 38.06% of industry revenue in 2024. These channels provide wide product visibility, in-store comparison opportunities, and promotional pricing, which contribute to high-volume sales. They remain especially important in emerging economies, where offline retail continues to play a dominant role in consumer purchasing decisions.
• Material Insights: Steel-based knives held a revenue share of 60.72% in 2024. Stainless steel knives are increasingly replacing carbon steel due to their affordability, availability, and resistance to corrosion. Manufacturers are expanding stainless steel knife production to meet growing demand. Additionally, Damascus steel knives—known for their strength and sharpness—are gaining popularity, further contributing to market growth.

Market Size & Forecast

• 2024 Market Size: USD 4,482.3 Million
• 2033 Projected Market Size: USD 7,790.2 Million
• CAGR (2025-2033): 6.4%
• Europe: Largest market in 2024
• Asia Pacific: Fastest growing market

Key Companies & Market Share Insights

The global knife market is fragmented, with the presence of both internationally established brands and regional manufacturers. Key players include Victorinox AG, Ed. Wüsthof Dreizackwerk KG, Zwilling J.A. Henckels AG, Yoshikin Global Corporation, Kai Corporation, MAC Knife, Inc., and others. Leading companies focus on premium offerings, product innovation, and durability to attract quality-conscious consumers.

• Victorinox AG, founded in 1884 and headquartered in Switzerland, is globally recognized for its Swiss Army knives and has expanded into kitchen cutlery and other lifestyle products. The company produces over 120,000 knives daily and exports to more than 120 countries, emphasizing multifunctionality, precision engineering, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
• Wüsthof Dreizackwerk KG, established in 1814 and based in Solingen, Germany, is known for its forged kitchen knives, including the Classic and Ikon product lines. The company employs advanced robotics and laser-controlled sharpening technologies to ensure product consistency and durability, with distribution spanning over 80 countries.

Key Players

• Victorinox AG
• Ed. Wüsthof Dreizackwerk KG
• Zwilling J.A. Henckels AG
• Yoshikin Global Corporation
• Kai Corporation
• MAC Knife, Inc.
• Dalstrong Inc.
• Cutco Corporation
• Mercer Tool Corp.
• Dexter-Russell, Inc.

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Conclusion

The global knife market is set to experience steady growth, supported by expanding food service industries, rising outdoor recreational activities, and increasing household demand for high-quality kitchen tools. With the market expected to grow from USD 4,482.3 million in 2024 to USD 7,790.2 million by 2033 at a CAGR of 6.4%, innovation in materials, blade design, and application-specific knives will remain key growth drivers. As consumer preferences continue to evolve toward durability, versatility, and performance, the knife industry is well positioned to sustain long-term growth across both professional and consumer segments.