Press Releases

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.

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.

Statement from the National Confectioners Association on the confirmation of Brooke Rollins as Secretary of Agriculture:

“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.”

New data from the National Confectioners Association reveals that 91 percent of Americans will mark Valentine’s Day with chocolate and candy. Whether it is a celebration of romantic, platonic, or self-love, chocolate and candy make every moment of the season more memorable.

The National Confectioners Association (NCA) and its Women’s Leadership Group proudly announce Shelly Clarey, senior vice president of sales & marketing at Adams & Brooks, Inc., as the 2025 Woman of Influence Award recipient. This prestigious honor recognizes Clarey’s outstanding leadership and contributions to the confectionery industry. 

The National Confectioners Association (NCA) announced today the recipients of the 2025 Golden and Silver Candy Dish Awards. Lyndi Verstrate, business manager at Shankman & Associates, will receive the Golden Candy Dish Award, and Mike Farley, vice president of sales at Goetze’s Candy Company, will be honored with the Silver Candy Dish Award. These awards celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional ability to strengthen the connection between manufacturers, brokers, and retail customers.  

“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.”

The National Confectioners Association (NCA) today announced the eight industry professionals selected for the 2025 Future Leadership Program. The program, which is dedicated to helping young professionals in the confectionery industry access networking and professional development opportunities to gain career experience, will also celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2025.

WASHINGTON – The National Confectioners Association (NCA) and Candy & Snack TODAY have announced the recipients of the 2025 Confectionery Leadership Awards: Circle K’s Mike Keller, Senior Category Manager for Confections; and Raley’s Robin Gutridge, Director of Non-Edible Grocery, General…

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.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and 95% of Americans are ready to celebrate the winter holidays with chocolate and candy, according to a recent survey from the National Confectioners Association. Whether it’s hanging candy canes on the tree or gifting festive treats, candy can add the sweet touch that makes cherished moments feel merry and bright.