Confectionery sector continues resilient mood ahead of Sweets & Snacks Expo
The 2024 Sweets & Snacks Expo successfully moved to Indianapolis. Pic: Neill Barston
Our May edition of Confectionery Production has freshly hit the printing presses, and is now also available digitally, with two prime focuses in the form of the fast approaching Sweets & Snacks Expo, as well as our own World Confectionery Conference.
The former is taking place between 12-15 May in Indianapolis US and the global industry is priming itself for what will no doubt be an extremely engaging event that will shine a light on major brands as well as smaller to medium-sized manufacturers from around the world. You can watch our exclusive video preview of the 2025 event below.
Confectionery Production will once again be playing its part in the show, so pleased do let us know all your news and views in the build-up to this international sector extravaganza that is destined to unveil plenty of trends, as well as address some of the major challenges that are remaining in the market.
Perhaps the most testing of these remains the volatility surrounding the cocoa market as prices remain relatively steep in the sector due to the ongoing crisis in West Africa that has seen a combination of adverse weather conditions, crop disease and long-term under investment in payment for farmers significantly impacting yields. It’s not a topic that is likely to feature heavily on this particular event’s agenda with the focus being largely on finished product developments – but the organising group, NCA did in fact give the subject its due prominence at the recent State of the Industry Conference in Miami.
The other major issue of the moment is that the uncertainty surrounding tariffs, which has caused considerable concern within the industry in the US, as well as around the world, with economies already experiencing a sustained period of turbulence prior to the sparking of a global trade war that holds the prospect for a large degree of market disruption.
However, as we have reported many times over the years, the confectionery industry remains a remarkably resilient one in spite of such combined challenges – so it is likely that through collaborative working and a spark of innovation that the sector remains renowned for, it will find a positive way forward.
As for our own event in Brussels on 11 September, I am pleased to say that preparations are progressing strongly for the show, which promises to be another memorable occasion in the Belgian capital, as we return to the venue that formed the backdrop of our first event there, the Marriott Hotel, Grand Place.
With the city being renowned as a confectionery hub, including for pralines and other fine chocolates, it remains a location that has served our event well – as we seek to shine a light on developments right across the full supply chain of the industry.
Notably, this month has been our early bird entry rate, as well as for exhibiting sponsorship, so for all those who are planning on attending, make sure to make the most of those savings. Any feedback on the show ahead of this year’s event is very much welcome indeed – as are your entries to our World Confectionery Awards, which will be presented at our conference in Brussels.
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