Articles by Alyse Thompson

2020 State of the Confectionery Industry: Hard candy sales dip

Dollar sales dropped by 2.6 percent in year ending June 14, IRI says.

July 20, 2020

While the chewy candy category continues to grow, U.S. sales for hard candy — driven by lollipops and sugar-free options — are seeing declines.

2020 State of the Confectionery Industry: $2.9B gum category sees declines in light of COVID-19 pandemic

Dollar sales dropped by 8 percent in the year ending June 14, IRI says.

Alyse Thompson

July 13, 2020

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Overall, the chewing gum category continues to see declines in both dollar sales and unit sales, but these drops could be exacerbated by consumers staying home during lockdowns prompted by the coronavirus pandemic.

2020 State of the Confectionery Industry: Gummies drive growth in chewy candy category

Non-chocolate chewy candy generated $3.9B in the year ending June 14, IRI reports.

Alyse Thompson

July 13, 2020

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Established gummy brands and category newcomers continue to drive growth in the non-chocolate chewy candy sector.

From PEZ to Hershey: A look back at 10 years of candy factory tours

Take a look at some of our favorite feature stories from the 2010’s!

Crystal Lindell

Bernie Pacyniak Alyse Thompson

December 18, 2019

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Over the last 10 years, Candy Industry has covered countless confectionery manufacturers. And while each article resulting from those factory visits offered important insight into the industry, we found these 10 stories especially interesting.

India-based battery company launches fruit chews

Eveready Industries India to use distribution system to become ‘significant player’ in Indian fruit chew market.

Alyse Thompson

January 10, 2018

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Dry cell battery manufacturer Eveready Industries India has entered the Indian confectionery market by launching fruit chews under the Jollies brand.

Dr. Pepper cotton candy

Taste of Nature, Inc., Santa Monica, Calif.

Alyse Thompson

January 9, 2018

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Taste of Nature, Inc. has expanded its cotton candy offerings through a license agreement with the Dr. Pepper Snapple Group.

Tastykake Winter Kandy Kakes

Tasty Baking Co., Philadelphia, Pa.

Alyse Thompson

December 6, 2017

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With the holidays right around the corner, Tastykake has released a line of limited-edition winter offerings.

Organic and all-natural candy trends: Supplying demand

Organic food sales continue to grow but sourcing still a challenge for manufacturers.

Alyse Thompson

July 11, 2017

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With greater access to information -- and increased demand for transparency -- consumers are seeking food with clean labels and a clear history.

Gum and mint trends: Kickstarting classic categories

Declining gum sales and flat-lining mint sales call for innovation.

Alyse Thompson

May 31, 2017

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Despite its status as a multibillion-dollar category, it’s no secret the gum and mint market is still in need of a boost.

Chewy candy trends: More to chew over

Attention to quality, innovation key to growing non-chocolate chewy candy sector.

Alyse Thompson

May 23, 2017

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Attention to quality and creativity is key in a multibillion-dollar industry that continues to grow.

Kettle Awards

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. This year marks the 75th Year of the prestigious award and we invite you to join us for an evening reception honoring its rich heritage and to celebrate the nominees and winner of the 2020 Kettle Award.

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Articles by Alyse Thompson

2020 State of the Confectionery Industry: Hard candy sales dip

2020 State of the Confectionery Industry: $2.9B gum category sees declines in light of COVID-19 pandemic

2020 State of the Confectionery Industry: Gummies drive growth in chewy candy category

From PEZ to Hershey: A look back at 10 years of candy factory tours

India-based battery company launches fruit chews

Dr. Pepper cotton candy

Tastykake Winter Kandy Kakes

Organic and all-natural candy trends: Supplying demand

Gum and mint trends: Kickstarting classic categories

Chewy candy trends: More to chew over

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