America’s biggest confectionery trade show runs from Tuesday May 19 to Thursday May 20 at McCormick Place, Chicago, U.S.
The NCA has released the supporting program that features presentations on shopper insights, leveraging the seasons and understanding how health & wellness awareness will impact the category. All events are free for attendees.
Growth through premiumization
The NCA’s new president John Downs told ConfectioneryNews: “In the next five years we’re expecting growth in the entire category. If you look at the last year or so obviously the premium category has a nice growth trajectory…that’s been the case in 2014.”
He said the Expo would highlight innovations in the premium confectionery in a dedicated specialty market – formerly called the Gourmet Marketplace.
“One thing people, are really focused on is the emotional connection and the experience in store,” continued Downs.
The Expo will also feature Innovation Alley, a zone for smaller startups that are new to the industry. Downs said they needn’t be worried by the might of Mars and Hershey
“There’s a lot of growth for everybody….It’s a big category, it’s a growing category and there’s space for everyone,” he said.
Supporting program
Downs will kick off the show with a keynote session at 8.15am on the Tuesday by outlining the NCA’s strategic priorities. The Atlantic’s contributing editor David Freeman will then discuss the right and wrong way to address obesity before IRI Worldwide presents shopper insights for candy & snacks.
Day Two’s keynote session features a retailer impact forum featuring speakers from Meijer, Schnuck Markets and GetGo, who will discuss the changing retail environment. Keynote sessions will be held in room 183 on level one - See HERE for the full program.
The NCA is also running a Sweet Insights Theater with 20-minute engagement sessions. The program includes speakers from Nielsen and My Web Grocer. The NCA’s Larry Wilson will also offer insights on how confectioners can maximize seasonal sales. See HERE for the full schedule.
The Most Innovative New Products Awards is back and the winners’ ceremony will be held on Tuesday May 19 at 4.45pm.
ConfectioneryNews will also be bringing you the latest from the show floor. To meet our editorial team, please contact Oliver Nieburg by email – oliver.nieburg@wrbm.com.