NCA Sweets & Snacks Expo Notches Another Record Year

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The 2017 Sweets & Snacks Expo, hosted by the National Confectioners Association (NCA), set an all-time attendance record for the second consecutive year with more than 18,000 professionals from nearly 90 countries. The soldout show was the Expo's 20th anniversary.

Exhibitors grew nearly 6 percent, representing more than 800 candy and snack companies showcasing more than four acres of product innovation across two halls.

"There was an amazing energy on the exhibit floor this year as the Sweets & Snacks Expo continues to be the premier, must-attend event in the confectionery and snack business," said John Downs, president and CEO of NCA. "Expo was the perfect venue to introduce the chocolate and candy industry's recent leadership commitment to our retail and wholesale customers.

"As we work to provide Americans with transparency, portion guidance and consumer education as they enjoy their favorite treats, attendees got to experience first-hand what this groundbreaking initiative means for our industry," he added.

More than 75 percent of the snack category's buying power was in attendance this year. Showgoers were able to visit 217 new exhibitors, view 45 retailer-approved New Product Award nominees, and attend more than 20 educational sessions.

"Year after year, the Sweets & Snacks Expo proves to be the leading business event for the candy and snack categories, and 2017 was no different," said Barry Rosenbaum, Expo chairman and president of Nassau Candy Distributors Inc. "We are proud to provide a focused environment where attendees can meet with current and future partners, and learn about the latest trends affecting the industry."

Click here for an inside look at day one from the 2017 Sweets & Snacks Expo and find out the top seven trends Convenience Store News editors spotted on the show floor.

The 2017 Sweets & Snacks Expo took place May 23-25 at Chicago's McCormick Place West.