Magazines Archives - 2009 July

US candy fair’s record crowd displays upbeat mood
Story 4 - Review

JUDGING by the record numbers and upbeat mood displayed at All Candy Expo 2009, it was apparent that no economic gloom was stopping the exhibitors and visitors from forging ahead in business. About 14,000 snack-andconfection industry professionals from 69 countries worldwide walked the halls of McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois, USA, where the fair, sponsored by the US National Confectioners Association (NCA), was held from May 19-21.

“Exhibitors were very excited that our registered buyer attendance grew by an amazing 7% this year,” said Jenn Ellek, director of trade marketing and communications, NCA.

The association was “very forward” in impressing upon participants that “sweets and snacks are among the few growing food categories in a down economy”, she added, noting that the message was well received.

“Sales in the confectionery industry were up in 2008. Although all but one of our four seasonal holidays did not grow [last year], we still posted a positive return of 3%. It’s worth noting that seasonal sales accounted for over 25% of all confectionery sales — [implying] retailers did a fantastic job of merchandising their everyday and front-end confectionery in 2008. The NCA expects a very strong year for both seasonal and everyday confectionary sales,” Ellek indicated.

NCA president Larry Graham pointed to the higher attendance as “a clear indicator that our exhibitors and attendees trust us to provide them with tangible value and benefits they need to grow their business”.

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