AVENTURA, Fla. – Confectionery sales topped $54 billion in 2024, according to the 2025 State of Treating report published today by the National Confectioners Association. The report forecasts that U.S. confectionery sales will grow over the next five years, exceeding $70 billion in all outlets by 2029.

Why it matters: Across the board, consumers are concerned about the price of groceries, which has led to widespread shifts in food and beverage spending. However, 98 percent of shoppers reported that they had purchased confectionery products at some point in 2024, demonstrating that they continue to leave room in their budgets for treats like chocolate and candy that enhance special moments.

Quotable: John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said:

“Americans are still turning to chocolate and candy as a special way to elevate their celebrations, holidays, and even ordinary days. The connection between our industry’s products and emotional well-being is undeniable, and we are meeting consumers where they want to be met with options for the moment – no matter the occasion.”

What you need to know: The 2025 State of Treating report offers insights to help manufacturers and retailers take the confectionery category to the next level. Here are a few key takeaways:

• Chew On This: While a little more than half of confectionery sales were driven by chocolate, non-chocolate candy experienced standout results in 2024, growing by nearly $5 billion since 2019 – an increase of almost 70 percent.

• Season’s Treat-ings: The big four candy seasons (Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, and the winter holidays) accounted for 62 percent of all confectionery sales in 2024. Top reasons for people to buy chocolate and candy include seeing their favorite treats and brands, gifting, and special occasions.

• Always A Treat: The vast majority of consumers (85 percent) agree that it is fine to occasionally enjoy a piece of chocolate or candy, and 86 percent of parents are also on board with their children enjoying candy every once in a while. Consumers report that they are interested in different pack size options and resealable packaging to help them with portion control.

Learn more: The 2025 State of Treating report explores confectionery shopping and treating trends and is the definitive source for confectionery category performance data. For a Bite-Sized Taste of the 2025 State of Treating report, visit CandyUSA.com/2025BiteSized.

Survey Methodology: The State of Treating combines proprietary NCA consumer survey findings with syndicated data provided by Circana and Euromonitor. Shopper insights were collected using an online survey conducted in December 2024 among a national sample of 1,551 consumers between the ages of 18 and 75. The survey findings are overlaid with Circana retail measurement and household panel data. Future market predictions are provided by Euromonitor. The study was conducted by 210 Analytics.

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post Confectionery Sales Break Records, Surpass $54 Billion in 2024 appeared first on NCA.

WASHINGTON – The National Confectioners Association today announced that Jerry Hagedorn, executive vice president for Barry Callebaut, will assume the role of Chair of the NCA Board of Trustees for a two-year term. Hagedorn most recently served as Vice Chair and will take over for departing NCA Board Chair Tony Jacobs, president of Bazooka Candy Brands.

“As the confectionery industry faces unprecedented challenges and unique opportunities, Jerry Hagedorn’s proven steady leadership will be an enormous asset to our dynamic and diverse membership,” John Downs, NCA president & CEO, said. “He is an innovative thinker and a tremendous advocate with decades of industry experience, and he is a great fit to lead the way forward into our next chapter.”

“The $48 billion confectionery industry is a vital force in the American economy, so I am honored to step into this role at such a pivotal time,” Hagedorn said. “Consumers consistently turn to their favorite chocolate, candy, gum, and mints to enhance special moments. I look forward to working together with the NCA membership and staff to advocate for our great industry.”

Hagedorn previously served as the association’s Vice Chair and led NCA’s Chocolate Council. His career in the industry spans over three decades, having spent 14 years at Brach’s Confections before joining Barry Callebaut in 2006. He was inducted into the Candy Hall of Fame in 2019.

NCA also announced several appointments to its Board of Trustees. Mitchell Goetze, CEO of Goetze’s Candy Company, will become Vice Chair of the NCA Board and Ed Schultz, president of Hawaiian Host Group, will succeed Marty Palmer, president & CEO of Palmer Candy Company, as Treasurer. Eight industry representatives will join the Board, including:

• Tess Albanese, Albanese Confectionery Group
• Len Caric, Howe Company
• Lou DiMarco, Hilco Sweets
• Enrique Grajeda, Mount Franklin Foods
• Jack Jensen, Clasen Quality Chocolate
• Patrick Murnane, Murnane Companies
• Rachel Sweet, Sweet Candy Company
• Jean Thompson, Seattle Chocolate Company

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post National Confectioners Association Announces New Board of Trustees Members appeared first on NCA.

“The National Confectioners Association congratulates Brooke Rollins on her confirmation as Secretary of Agriculture. We look forward to working with Secretary Rollins to ensure USDA delivers for American consumers, the nearly 58,000 workers directly employed by U.S. confectionery manufacturers, and the almost 700,000 jobs across all 50 states that rely on a thriving confectionery industry.”

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post NCA Statement on Confirmation of Brooke Rollins to Lead USDA appeared first on NCA.

Why it matters: Confectionery retail sales are expected to grow by up to three percent this Valentine’s Day, marking a major sales moment for the $48 billion confectionery industry. With 92 percent of people reporting that they would love to receive chocolate or candy for the holiday – more than any other classic gift – treats are essential in sharing the sweetness of the season with friends, family, and loved ones.

Quotable: John Downs, president and CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said:

“There is no pair more perfect than Valentine’s Day and candy. Year after year, people across the country turn to chocolate and candy to show their affection for others, creating lasting memories and spreading joy through simple, heartfelt gestures.”

Other insights from the NCA survey include:

• Be mine: Valentine’s Day is an ideal occasion to treat oneself, and nearly half of Americans say they will buy a box of chocolates just for themselves.
• Stuck on you: Seventy-five percent of people say a heart-shaped box of chocolates is the most classic Valentine’s Day treat. When selecting their piece, 43 percent consult the guide, 24 percent bite into a corner, and 23 percent randomly select one. No matter how they choose to go in, caramel, chocolate-covered nuts, and a chocolate center are the most hoped-for fillings.
• Choc-full: If you’re looking to make someone feel loved, the gift of chocolate is a fail-safe option for Valentine’s Day. Boxes of chocolate, bouquets of chocolate roses, and handmade chocolate truffles rank as the sweetest treats to receive.

What else you need to know: A little sweetness is all it takes to make Valentine’s Day special. Consumers understand that chocolate and candy are treats. People in the U.S. enjoy chocolate and candy 2-3 times per week, averaging just 40 calories and about one teaspoon of added sugar per day.

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post Valentine’s Day and Treats Are A Perfect Pair appeared first on NCA.

“Shelly has set herself apart as a leader in our industry,” John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said. “She’s not only an incredibly talented professional but has also spent countless hours lifting everyone around her to create a stronger, more inclusive industry. We’re thrilled to celebrate her with this well-deserved honor.” 

Clarey On Leadership 

Clarey’s leadership is based on empathy, integrity, and collaboration. Her passion for innovation and her dedication to mentoring and inspiring others have left a lasting impact on the confectionery industry.  

“In receiving the award this year, I celebrate everyone in the confectionery industry who has shared their experience and expertise with their peers, colleagues, and competitors in the name of progress,” Clarey said. “The Woman of Influence Award is an acknowledgment of the collective strength of all the women and men who generously contribute to the advancement of women within our industry.”  

Bio in Brief  

Clarey began her confectionery journey in 1984 in accounting at Sathers Candy Co., but quickly gravitated to sales and marketing, discovering her passion for connecting consumers with candy. After 20 years at Sathers and The Foreign Candy Company, Clarey joined Adams & Brooks in 2004, where she continues to drive innovation in product development, supply chain management, and developing partnerships with vendors and suppliers across the globe.  

She also volunteers her time in support of many NCA activities. Clarey currently serves as chair of NCA’s Women’s Leadership Group, which she helped create in 2015, and constantly works to build opportunities for the advancement of women across the industry.  

In 2017, she was recognized with the Silver Candy Dish and was inducted into the Candy Hall of Fame in 2016. She is currently chair of the National Confectionery Sales Association (NCSA). 
 
About the Woman of Influence Award 

Established in 2021 by NCA’s Women’s Leadership Group, the Woman of Influence Award honors female leaders with exceptional mentorship, leadership, and influence in the confectionery industry. The award will be presented at NCA’s 2025 State of the Industry Conference, March 2-4, at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort in Aventura, Fla. 

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post Shelly Clarey Receives NCA’s 2025 Woman of Influence Award appeared first on NCA.

“The Candy Dish Awards are a reflection of the incredible talent and dedication within the confectionery industry,” John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said. “Lyndi and Mike represent the best of our community, demonstrating leadership and collaboration between manufacturers and broker sales agents to inspire progress and innovation.” 

More About Lyndi Verstrate 

A Broker Who Stands Apart 

With a career spanning more than 32 years in the convenience store industry, Verstrate’s ability to cultivate strong relationships and drive category growth has made her a standout broker in the confectionery industry. After beginning her career with Speedway, Verstrate progressed to leadership roles with Exit 76 Corporation/J&H Family Stores and Schmuckal Oil. She has spent eight years excelling in sales and leadership at Shankman & Associates.  

“I am truly honored – and honestly a bit stunned – to be recognized with the Golden Candy Dish Award,” Verstrate said. “With so many talented salespeople in the broker community, this recognition means so much to me.” 

Bio in Brief 

Verstrate’s career began as a cashier and quickly progressed into leadership roles. She’s managed multiple categories through the years in various roles as store, district, category, and marketing manager. Since joining Shankman & Associates, Verstrate has been a driving force behind sales growth and relationship-building across multiple categories. 

More About Mike Farley 

A True Partner 

Since joining Goetze’s Candy Company in 2019, Farley has led national sales operations and managed a dozen separate broker partners, driving revenue growth and creating strategic partnerships. After launching his career with the broker sales agency François Schwartz in 1986, he spent 22 years at Hershey Foods, with subsequent roles at Godiva Chocolatier, Acosta Sales & Marketing, and Perfetti Van Melle. An active member of NCA, Farley has contributed to initiatives like the Sweets & Snacks Expo and industry mentorship programs. 

“I’m honored to receive this award from our broker community,” Farley said. “This recognition reflects the strong relationships and teamwork that have shaped my journey in the confectionery industry. I sincerely thank NCA and our broker network for their unwavering support and shared passion. Every day in this industry, working with our incredible broker partners is ‘Always A Treat!’”  

Bio in Brief  

Farley’s career in the confectionery industry spans more than 38 years, beginning with his work stocking shelves at a local grocery store and interning with Procter & Gamble during college. Today, Farley leads sales functions at Goetze’s Candy Company, drives innovation, and mentors the next generation of industry leaders. 

About the Candy Dish Awards 

The Candy Dish Awards are presented annually by NCA’s broker community, recognizing one broker and one manufacturer who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in confectionery sales, marketing, and management. Recipients are selected based on outstanding leadership qualities, their ability to build relationships, and cultivate new business opportunities. 

The 2025 Candy Dish Awards will be presented during the State of the Industry Conference, March 2-4, at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort in Aventura, Fla. 

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post NCA Announces Winners of 2025 Golden and Silver Candy Dish Awards appeared first on NCA.

“Food safety is the number one priority for U.S. confectionery companies, and we will continue to follow and comply with FDA’s guidance and safety standards. Our consumers and everyone in the food industry want and expect a strong FDA, and a consistent, science-based national regulatory framework. We have been saying for years that FDA is the rightful national regulatory decision maker and leader in food safety.”

Additional Background Information

What FDA said in its 1/15/2025 Constituent Update:

• “…claims that the use of FD&C Red No. 3 in food and in ingested drugs puts people at risk are not supported by the available scientific information.”

What happened:

• FDA’s evaluation and risk assessment concluded that Red Dye 3 “meets the safety standard of a reasonable certainty of no harm required for a color additive.”
• However, FDA revoked the use of Red Dye 3 in food and drugs because of a legal requirement known as The Delaney Clause.
• Read more information from the FDA

What we’ve been saying:

• For years, our industry has been calling for more transparency, more funding, and more staff resources for the FDA to continue fulfilling its mission, and it’s time to put politics aside and work together to fund the FDA at levels that will allow it to continue its work.  

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post NCA Statement on Red Dye 3 appeared first on NCA.

“The Future Leaders are movers and shakers who represent the promise of the confectionery industry, driving innovation while preserving cherished traditions,” John Downs, NCA president and CEO, said. “Over the last ten years, the Future Leadership Program has ensured our best and brightest have the tools to reach their career potential – and we’ve got the track record to prove it. I am excited to work alongside these dedicated professionals and see where they take us next.”

The 2025 class includes:

• Charlotte Ashcraft, Manager, Packaging & Graphic Development, Just Born Quality Confections
• Emily Goetze, Manager, Inventory of Palletized Materials & Finished Goods, Goetze’s Candy Co., Inc.
• Hope Hebenstreit, Director, Strategy & Business Development, creative werks
• Daniel Mattera, Director of Sales – Grocery, HWY Partners
• Mike Pedi, Director, Retail Design, Mars Wrigley
• Endri Shtylla, Marketing Director, Ferrero NA
• Bryan Young, Manager, International Strategy and Insights, The Hershey Company
• Chao Zhou, Corporate Director, Regulatory Compliance, Blommer Chocolate Company

Launched in 2016, the Future Leadership Program provides support, education, access, and opportunity to young professionals wanting to develop leadership skills and grow their careers in the confectionery industry. Participants are matched with a highly regarded industry leader as a mentor. They are also invited to attend NCA’s signature events and other industry gatherings, including the State of the Industry Conference, Sweets & Snacks Expo, NCA’s Leadership Summit, the Washington Forum, and Candy Hall of Fame weekend. For more information, visit CandyUSA.com/FutureLeaders.

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post NCA Announces 10th Future Leadership Program Class appeared first on NCA.

“The Confectionery Leadership Awards recognize the people who make our industry so special, and Mike and Robin are tremendous examples of that,” John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said. “Their innovative ideas, leadership, and ability to bring joy to consumers in the confectionery aisle truly set them apart. They’re making a big impact, and it’s an honor to celebrate them.” 
 
More About Mike Keller  
Driving Transformative Initiatives 
Mike Keller has dedicated more than 25 years to the convenience store industry, with the last seven spent as a category manager at Circle K. His leadership has driven transformative initiatives, including developing the “Sweet Spot,” an end-cap display featured in more than 450 stores. The “Sweet Spot” highlights seasonal candy, limited-time offers, and the latest trends while incorporating key NCA initiatives like National Candy Month. 

“I’m deeply grateful for this incredible honor,” Keller said. “Confectionery is about more than products – it’s about creating moments of joy, and I’m so fortunate to collaborate with innovative and dedicated partners in this space. Thank you to my amazing team and the manufacturer and broker communities for their continued support.” 

Bio in Brief 
Keller’s career journey began as a sales associate, progressing through roles as store manager, district manager, and manager of merchandising. His expertise spans merchandising, strategic planning, market analysis, and vendor relations.  
 
More About Robin Gutridge  
Championing Confectionery Excellence 
Robin Gutridge’s career in retail spans more than 30 years, with the last 14 at Raley’s. Since adding candy to her responsibilities in 2013, Robin has become a champion for the confectionery category, combining strategic leadership with creative merchandising to delight shoppers and drive results. Her efforts have strengthened Raley’s candy offerings while fostering collaboration and innovation across the industry. 

“Becoming the candy category leader for Raley’s changed my life in an unimaginable way,” Gutridge said. “My creativity and business smarts have been tested. I’ve met people who’ve become friends and mentors. Receiving this award is an honor, and I’m humbled to be part of an industry that builds traditions and lifelong memories for both industry members and consumers.”  

Bio in Brief 
Gutridge began her career in buying and planning roles at Macy’s West and Saks Fifth Avenue. She now leads the general merchandise and candy categories for Raley’s, driving growth through strategic leadership and creative merchandising. Her recently-expanded portfolio includes non-edible grocery, health and beauty, seasonal, and floral. Robin is also a board member of Raley’s Food For Families, the company’s non-profit which strives to end hunger in the community. 

About the CLAs  
The Confectionery Leadership Awards (CLAs), established in 2011 by NCA in collaboration with Candy & Snack TODAY, honor exceptional retailers and wholesalers for their leadership, collaboration, and innovation within the industry. The program highlights individuals who elevate the confectionery category through creative and impactful initiatives. 

The 2025 Confectionery Leadership Awards will be presented during the State of the Industry Conference, March 2-4, at the JW Marriott Turnberry Resort in Miami, Florida. 

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post 2025 Confectionery Leadership Awards Honor Circle K’s Mike Keller and Raley’s Robin Gutridge appeared first on NCA.

“NCA is proud to be part of this sweet collaboration with The White House, bringing to life the magic of chocolate and candy and the joyous spirit of the winter holidays. In addition to supporting candy-inspired décor in several spaces throughout The White House, our member companies also provided real treats to deck the halls of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and send visitors home with a bite of the wonder. From your house to The White House, chocolate and candy are always a treat.”

ABOUT OUR COLLABORATION

• NCA’s support of The White House holiday experience includes hand-crafted candy ornaments and themed decorations in multiple spaces including the official White House tree in the Blue Room, as well as in the State Dining Room and Library.
• NCA and its member companies also provided chocolate and candy used to fill candy jars, decorate trees, and add a touch of sweetness throughout the space.
• Additionally, NCA supplied custom chocolates that thousands of White House visitors will receive during the holiday season.  

ADDITIONAL BACKGROUND

• Chocolate and candy play a fun and unique role this time of year. Seasonal treating is an important part of family traditions and celebrations across the country and around the world. Whether playing dreidel for chocolate coins, decorating a gingerbread house with gum drops and peppermints, or delivering a gift to a loved one, chocolate and candy enliven the spirit of togetherness that is so emblematic of the season. Visit AlwaysATreat.com/WinterHolidays to learn more.
• People in the U.S. enjoy chocolate and candy 2-3 times per week, averaging just 40 calories and one teaspoon of added sugar per day, which includes special moments like the winter holiday season.
• The confectionery industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields.
• More information about the holidays at The White House is available at WhiteHouse.gov/holidays-2024.

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post NCA Provides Chocolate and Candy for White House Winter Holidays Decor appeared first on NCA.

Why it matters: Confectionery sales around the holidays reached nearly $7 billion in 2023 and are expected to grow up to three percent in 2024. The winter holidays are one of the big four seasons (which also include Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Halloween) that account for 64 percent of annual sales for the $48 billion confectionery industry.

Quotable: John Downs, president and CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said:

“Chocolate and candy are essential parts of the winter holidays, deeply connected to the traditions that define this time of year. From candy canes and chocolate coins to advent calendars and décor for gingerbread houses, confectionery products have been central to how families celebrate and create lasting memories across generations.”

Other findings include:

• How do you eat candy canes? When asked about the right way to eat a candy cane, 54% of people say they begin with the straight end while 30% start with the curved end. Another 16% of respondents break their candy cane into pieces.

• It’s the season of giving. More than half of people in the U.S. share chocolate and candy as part of their winter holidays gifting. Foil-wrapped chocolates, a small box of chocolate, and candy canes ranked as the best treats for stocking stuffers.

• Deck the halls! Candy is a key element of delicious decorations. Half of Americans will adorn their Christmas tree or decorate packages with candy canes. The top treats to adorn a gingerbread house are gumdrops, chocolate pieces, candy canes, gummy candies, and peppermints.

The difference between confectionery and other holiday foods: While many will see visions of sugar plums this holiday season, consumers understand that chocolate and candy are treats. People in the U.S. enjoy chocolate and candy 2-3 times per week, averaging just 40 calories and about one teaspoon of added sugar per day – and this includes special moments like the winter holiday season.

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the $54 billion U.S. confectionery industry. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and works to ensure that chocolate, candy, gum and mints are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. The industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states and supports an additional 635,000 jobs in related fields. The U.S. confectionery industry has made a commitment to increasing transparency, providing more portion guidance options and educating consumers about the role of confectionery in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X and Instagram.

The post Consumers Bring Good Tidings to Winter Holidays with Chocolate and Candy appeared first on NCA.