Google to Present at 2016 Sweets & Snacks Expo

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Google will present at the National Confectioners Association's (NCA) Sweets & Snacks Expo for the first time in 2016, sharing the latest insights on omnichannel shoppers and how their behavior impacts the candy and snack categories. The annual event will take place May 24-26 at Chicago's McCormick Place convention center.

By focusing on the brief moments that retailers have to win over shoppers, which Google refers to as "micro-moments," the presentation will examine how retailers can reach customers in a new way through digital engagement.

"I look forward to addressing areas of opportunities for candy and snack retailers at the expo," stated Google's Senior Partner Leader Amy Margolies, who will present. "Selling candy or snacks and having a digital footprint are not mutually exclusive. I have insights to share that we've learned at Google that can positively impact the candy and snack industry."

Google joins other subject matter experts from a variety of industries who will provide valuable, tangible knowledge that candy, snack and specialty retailers can implement immediately, the NCA said. The full education schedule is available here.

"We're thrilled to have a company with the forward-thinking reputation of Google presenting in our Sweet Insights Theater," said Barry Rosenbaum, president of Nassau Candy Distributors and Expo committee chairman. "With the expansion of our educational offerings, which are all included in the basic expo registration, the Sweets & Snacks Expo continues to be the best business value in the industry for candy, snack and specialty retailers."

For the first time, the event will feature two educational theaters directly on the show floor. The Sweet Insights Theater will again be located inside the West Hall, while the Discover Theater will debut in Skyline Hall with educational tracks specializing in snacking and specialty trends.

More than 130 new companies will occupy the new Skyline Hall, with exhibiting companies expected to grow by nearly 20 percent.