• Scott Amoye, Vice President Corporate Procurement and Commodity Risk Management, Blommer Chocolate Company
• Hugo Van Der Goes, Vice President Cocoa North America, Barry Callebaut

This session explored critical insights into cocoa crop conditions in Africa, trends in commodity trading dynamics, shifting consumer demand, and expectations for the short- and long-term. Gain valuable perspectives to help navigate the complexities of the global cocoa supply chain and market dynamics.

The post SOTIC 2025 – Cocoa Today, Cocoa Tomorrow appeared first on NCA.

Dive into the 2025 State of Treating Report, NCA’s flagship analysis of the confectionery industry’s performance. This session highlights the latest insights into chocolate, candy, gum, and mint consumption patterns, addressing how evolving consumer behaviors and macroeconomic trends are shaping the industry. Discover how confectionery products continue to play a unique role in moments of joy and indulgence while adapting to changing consumer expectations around wellness, convenience, and value. Gain actionable takeaways on how to align with these trends, foster growth, and solidify your position in the marketplace.

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Uncover the power and potential of chocolate products, merchandising, and marketing in NCA’s third edition of Getting to Know Chocolate Consumers. This proprietary research combines consumer opinions, attitudes, and behavioral research with Circana’s MULO+ sales and performance data to help you optimize category engagement and support chocolate sales growth in 2025. 

The post SOTIC 2025 – Getting to Know Chocolate Consumers 2024 appeared first on NCA.

The story of confectionery innovation reflects shifting consumer tastes and technological advancements. This year, brands have explored new flavors, forms, and sizes to make treats more versatile, while functional benefits like added vitamins, probiotics, and reduced sugar have gained appeal.

Distribution is shifting as consumers seek value and turn to e-commerce for variety and convenience. Social and digital influencers drive growth, spotlighting new products and trends. Join this session to explore key growth levers shaping confections today and in the future.

The post SOTIC 2025 – Innovation Themes and Successes appeared first on NCA.

As retailers strive to create a seamless shopping experience, concerns about theft are driving the adoption of new deterrence measures—sometimes affecting categories like chocolate and candy. Join an industry expert for an insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of asset protection, the strategies retailers are implementing, and what these changes mean for your products. Gain valuable perspectives on navigating this shifting environment while maintaining security, accessibility, and sales.

The post SOTIC 2025 – Locked In: The Future of Retail Product Security appeared first on NCA.

There’s a better way to drive e-commerce sales and retail media networks are changing the game for search and brand awareness. This session will provide an overview of best practices for collaborating with retail media networks, strategies for determining the right investment levels for companies of all sizes, and effective methods for tracking and understanding return on investment (hint: ROAS as a measure is so 2019!).

The post SOTIC 2025 – Leveraging Retail Media to Drive Incrementality in E-Comm appeared first on NCA.

Your story is your superpower, and your career is the platform to share it. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to reflect on your personal and professional journey, identify strengths and opportunities, and create a plan to maximize your impact. Through practical tools and inspiring insights, you’ll own your story, elevate your career, and take charge of your next chapter. 

The post SOTIC 2025 – Own Your Journey: Harness Your Story & Career to Empower What’s Next appeared first on NCA.

The study takes a critical look at what has changed over the past year and why, and helps you get a read on future patterns and demand. Topics include generational insights, seasonal engagement, technology and social media, and confectionery in a world of transparency and social responsibility.

The post SOTIC 2024: State of Treating 2024 appeared first on NCA.

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