75th Candy Industry Kettle Awards postponed until May 2021 due to coronavirus

Event, typically held the same week as Sweets & Snacks Expo, will be held in Chicago next year.

The 75th Annual Candy Industry Kettle Awards has been postponed until 2021 due to the coronavirus.

The award ceremony will now be taking place May 25, 2021 in Chicago, Illinois.

The event was originally scheduled to take place in May in Chicago, but ithas been rescheduled after the NCA’s Sweets & Snacks Expo also was rescheduled. The two events have traditionally been held during the same week, although there is no official coordination between the organizations.

“The health and safety of our attendees, sponsors, vendors and staff at Candy Industry and the Kettle Awards is our top priority,” said Candy Industry Publisher Chris Luke. “Due to the cancellation of the Sweets & Snacks Expo and the magnitude of the unanticipated public health and safety issues, in addition to increased travel restrictions, we have determined, in consultation with the Kettle Committee, that postponement at this time is the best, most productive approach for all.”

This year’s nominees will be up for the award at the 2021 ceremony. They include:

Judy Hilliard McCarthy, owner, Hilliards Chocolates, North Easton, Mass.
Robert A. Nelson, chairman and CEO, Elmer Chocolate, Ponchatoula, La.
Mark Schlott, executive v.p., COO, R. M. Palmer Co., West Reading, Pa.

“We value the support and feedback of everyone involved in preparing for this important event and appreciate your professionalism, patience and understanding during these truly extraordinary times,” Luke said.

Candy Industry will be sending out follow-up communications addressing logistical issues. Anyone with questions can reach out to Candy Industry Editor Crystal Lindell via email at lindellc@bnpmedia.com.

Established in 1946 by Candy Industry's founder and publisher, Don Gussow, the Kettle Award represents the highest recognition an individual working within the U.S. confectionery industry can attain.

For more information about the Candy Industry Kettle Awards, visit KettleAwards.com.

Crystal Lindell, Former editor-in-chief of Candy Industry Magazine. While here she has worked on Candy Industry Magazine, Food Engineering Magazine and Food Safety Strategies. She holds a master’s degree in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois – Springfield and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Western Illinois University. And her favorite breakfast is a cup of espresso and Twix bar.