NCA

State of the Industry

State of the Candy Industry: 2021 brings innovation, evolution, uncertainty for candy sector

Data comparing confectionery category sales to pre-pandemic levels offers glimpse into different sectors.

July 7, 2021

It’s been over a decade now since Crystal Lindell started working for Candy Industry in December 2010, and in all that time she has never witnessed the kind of massive changes that have happened within the confectionery sector over the last year.

COVID-19

After a year of COVID-19, how will the candy industry know the worst is over?

With about 3 months to go until the NCA’s Sweets & Snacks Expo, the event will again serve as a touchstone in the pandemic timeline.

Crystal Lindell

March 10, 2021

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It’s different for different people. Editor Crystal Lindell marks the beginning of COVID-19 at 8:51 p.m. Central Time, March 11, 2020.

Sweets and Snacks Expo accepting submissions for ‘Most Innovate New Product Award’

Expo also will feature first-ever Supplier Showcase.

Crystal Lindell

March 8, 2021

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The submitted products will be judged by retail and category thought-leaders representing 85 percent of the categories’ buying power.

NCA says in-person Sweets and Snacks Expo still on for June

Event slated to be held at the Indiana Convention Center June 23-25 with a pre-show day June 22.

Crystal Lindell

February 17, 2021

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Theresa Anthony, senior director, Expo, sent out an email letter to members this week that said customers are ready to meet face-to-face.

NCA: In 2021, Valentine’s Day candy more vital than ever

National Confectioners Association highlights Valentine’s Day Central, a digital hub providing tips and trivia.

Crystal Lindell

February 1, 2021

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“Throughout the pandemic, one thing that has remained consistent is that Americans appreciate chocolate and candy for the sense of comfort they bring during challenging times,” said John Downs, NCA president & CEO.

USDA modifies sugar guidelines — but only for children under 2

The recommendations continue to highlight the need for moderation

Crystal Lindell

January 13, 2021

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The USDA recently released new 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. For the candy industry, the parts that stand out relate to added sugars.

NCA reveals confectionery shopping changes amid COVID-19

Coronavirus impacts how and where consumers buy candy

Crystal Lindell

November 3, 2020

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New report from the NCA focuses on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the new buying behaviors that have emerged as a result.

Halloween 2020

NCA responds to LA County not allowing trick or treating amid COVID-19

The largest county in the country had offered a list of alternatives including online parties and drive-in movie nights.

Crystal Lindell

September 9, 2020

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LA County, located in the state of California, is the largest in the country, with 10.4 million people. The county has had 249,241 cases of COVID-19 and 6,036 deaths.

NCA’s Washington Forum goes virtual amid COVID-19

The event has been re-titled as, “Washington Forum @ Home (WF@H)” and includes video conference and digital programs.

Crystal Lindell

August 17, 2020

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This year’s NCA Washington Forum will be held virtually due to COVID-19. Registration will open today, Monday, Aug. 17.

Halloween 2020

With Halloween on the horizon, how pandemic-proof will candy prove to be?

The fall holiday accounts for $4.6B in sales for the confectionery industry. But expected changes in trick-or-treating could have a massive impact on that.

Crystal Lindell

August 12, 2020

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It’s hard to imagine that a country navigating a pandemic is going to send its children to collect candy from a bunch of strangers this year.