WASHINGTON — The National Confectioners Association has officially unwrapped the latest candy and snack industry trends of 2016 as the Sweets & Snacks Expo kicks off in Chicago from May 24 through May 26 at McCormick Place. Covering four acres of chocolate, candy, cookies and savory snacks, several trends emerged that are setting the course for the future of the candy industry. From bites, barks and thins to unconventional ingredients, the newest products continue to evolve in both the areas of taste and packaging.
"This year's Sweets & Snacks Expo is host to more than 750 exhibitors all sharing the most innovative offerings from their respective companies," said NCA President & CEO John H. Downs, Jr. "With the use of unique ingredients and flavor combinations, the tastes of 2016 are bigger, bolder and more groundbreaking than ever before. The Expo is a showcase of the ways in which our industry is working hard to provide consumers with choices, information and the support they need to make decisions that are right for them."
The Sweets & Snacks Expo attendees represent 90 percent of the buying power in the candy category and 75 percent of the buying power in the snack category in the U.S. The addition of a new hall led to a 22 percent increase in exhibit space for 2016 allowing more than 200 new companies to participate this year. Whether representing large multi-national brands or small regional favorites, the exhibitors at the Expo make a wide variety of options – available in packages ranging from fun size to share size – that can bring a smile to any occasion.
At this year's Sweets & Snacks Expo, the following trends emerged:
Bites, Barks and Thins
Good things do come in small packages – especially when it comes to treats. Confectioners and snack makers will be consistently creating big tastes in small products this year, often under labels like "thins" and "barks." These products don't skimp on ingredients or quality, but focus on delivering a delicious product that's easy to snack on while on-the-go or to simply enjoy in moderation.
Fantastic Fruits and Noteworthy Nuts
With chocolate and fruit or chocolate and nut combinations performing increasingly well over the last three years (increasing 116 percent and 63 percent, respectively), a multitude of innovative fruit and nut products are being launched in 2016. New mouthwatering fruit and flavor pairings will emerge introducing many of us for the first time to combinations like mango and chocolate, blueberry and acai or fig with vanilla. Similarly, the industry is going nuts for new nut innovations. Expect to see the inclusion of more hazelnuts, pistachios, cashews and salted almonds in candies and snacks in 2016. Coconut, a botanically curious fruit/nut hybrid, will also be paired with flavors like caramel, peanut butter and chocolate.
Far-Out Flavor
Today's flavor profiles are bigger and bolder than ever before with unique flavor combinations taking the confectionery and snack industry by storm. This category includes many kitchen-inspired flavors including pumpkin, fiery spices and robust international flair. Saigon cinnamon, Sriracha and chimichurri are a few flavors that are expected to pack a punch at the Expo and beyond. Other notable ingredients within this category include coffee, espresso and cappuccino flavors, which have increased 30 percent over the last three years.
Innovative Ingredients
Coconut palm sugar, coconut milk, chia and pumpkin seeds highlight only a handful of the variety of noteworthy ingredients in this year's new product launches. These creative ingredients are far from ordinary and guaranteed to take taste buds to new levels.
Taste of Luxury
Over the past three years premium chocolate sales increased 56 percent, so it's no wonder that confection- and snack-makers have their eyes on luxury and gourmet markets this year. Even candies known for their mass appeal are creating premium products. Candy companies incorporated high quality ingredients and flavors like champagne, muscadine grape and Himalayan sea salt, to name a few.
The National Confectioners Association also released the following information about the confectionery industry's 2015 performance at the Sweets & Snacks Expo:
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The overall confectionery category increased 3.2 percent in 2015.
- Chocolate grew 3.1 percent with increased interest in premium chocolate, dark chocolate, fruits and nuts.
- Non-chocolate confection sales increased 3.7 percent with solid performances from fruity candies, gummies, sour candies and breath fresheners.
- Gum sales rose 1 percent with sugarless gum leading the way.
- Top outlets for candy sales in 2015 included grocery stores, super centers and drug stores, however consumers also shopped online for confections. In 2015, 30 percent of people bought candy online (up from 24 percent in 2014 and 21 percent in 2013).
For more information about the National Confectioners Association or the Sweets & Snacks Expo visit www.candyusa.com.
About the National Confectioners Association (NCA)
The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization representing the $35 billion U.S. confections industry. NCA and its members value the fun and enjoyment of chocolate, candy, gum and mints, serving as a transparent and trustworthy source while building and promoting a responsible industry. As the leading trade association for the industry, NCA is proud of the role it plays in the public's understanding and appreciation of candy's unique role in a happy, balanced lifestyle. For more information, visit www.CandyUSA.com.
About the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Sponsored by the National Confectioners Association, the Sweets & Snacks Expo is the confectionery and snack industry's most successful, world class event. It is unrivaled in new product launches, business building solutions and innovations in merchandising. Nearly 17,000 qualified professionals attend with global presence from 90 countries. More than 750 companies displaying more than 4 acres of candy and snack products participate in the Expo. The event is held each May at Chicago's McCormick Place.
Source: National Confectioners Association
