Exclusive: Final countdown for Sweets & Snacks Expo 2026

The deserts of Nevada are calling for a debut appearance for the Sweets & Snacks Expo, as NCA president John Downs discusses with editor Neill Barston, discussing hopes for an eventful 2026 extravaganza.

With countless cultural references conjuring images of Elvis Presley’s late career residency, Oceans Eleven casino heists, through to Mike Tyson’s tiger being kidnapped in The Hangover movie, it seems nowhere dazzles quite as brightly as Las Vegas.

Staking a claim to being the entertainment capital of the world, for a few nights only, it is set to become the global confectionery HQ, as the Sweets & Snacks Expo rolls into town for its Nevada debut.

In the wake of the State of the Industry Conference, which revealed some notable resilience in the face of market headwinds, the showbiz glitz on offer in Vegas seems a strong fit for an industry that delivers big on fun and engagement factor.

With just days to go before the event opens its doors between 19-21 May at the Las Vegas Convention Centre, there’s a key industry buzz around the event is clearly palpable, as the industry heads out West to make its mark on one of the country’s most iconic settings.

There’s plenty to discuss on the agenda at this year’s event, from exploring how the industry is shifting to AI-enhanced production measures, digital commerce channels, through to growing demand for premium, and interactive product ranges that excite and delight consumers.

For its part, Confectionery Production has continued to support the event, and will be looking forward to playing its part once again in reporting on proceedings from the US. (See our exclusive video preview interview with the National Confectioners Association’s Carly Schildhaus below),

This year, the event is hoping to match its impressive tally of more than
1,000 exhibitors from across the global confectionery industry, with more than 15,000 attendees, as well as around 200 companies participating in its linked supplier showcase.

From its original setting of the candy capital of Chicago over two decades ago, the event has boldly spread its wings in recent years, finding a warm reception in Indianapolis with which it co-locates.

Another notable aspect which continues to shine for the event, is the inclusion of its Start-Up Street, offering a valuable platform for emerging brands to shine right at the heart of the industry’s most prominent annual gatherings.
The significance of this year’s iteration being held in such a high-profile location is certainly not lost on the NCA, and its leader.

Speaking to our publication, John Downs enthused: “That same drive to innovate and lead comes to life at Sweets & Snacks Expo, taking place this year for the first time in Las Vegas. Bringing together the full breadth of confectionery and snack industries, Sweets & Snacks is where new products are introduced, emerging brands gain momentum, and established leaders continue to raise the bar.

“It offers a singular view of how both industries are evolving in real time — uniting breakthrough start-ups, fast-growing companies, and iconic brands that continue to push the categories forward,” he notes of the key event in Nevada taking place next week.

Indeed, Sweets & Snacks has thrived on a providing a sense of putting on an engaging show, with plenty of added elements including a dynamic programme of presentations to complete the experience. Expect contributions from the likes of Barry Callebaut, Ferrara, PepsiCo, Circana, Walmart, Hershey, Mars, Mintel and many others.

“Hosting the show in Las Vegas elevates that experience even further, opening the door to new opportunities for connection, visibility, and growth in a setting that matches the scale and ambition of the industries it represents. More than a showcase, it is a catalyst, shaping what consumers will discover, what retailers will put on store shelves, and how confectionery and snacking will continue to lead in the years ahead.
Grounded in a remarkable legacy and driven by continuous innovation, our industry plays a defining role in American history and holds a special place in our country’s bright future,” adds John of what promises to be another memorable showcase.

Supplier showcase
Having built-up a strong head of momentum over the past few years since its revival to the event, the supplier showcase has forged itself a strong place within Sweets & Snacks Expo.

This year will be no exception as the event takes to Nevada, with these sessions taking place on Monday, 18 May, 1-5pm, and 19 May, 9-12noon, at the Las Vegas Convention Centre.

At the time of going to press, there were more than 170 companies registered to exhibit at the event, across equipment, systems and ingredients segments of the market.

There will be plenty of leading machinery businesses that will be making the most of this table-top exhibition, which has evolved into a fast-paced gathering that is now bolstered with its own programme of education sessions.
Among prominent names at this year’s event, are GEA north America with a wealth of tech for the industry, Egan Food Technologies, DT&G Ltd chocolate coating systems, Heat and Control, IMA North America, which also offers a broad array of equipment.

Sollich North America will once again be represented, as will Latini Hohberger Dhimantec, TNA North America, WRH Industries.

On the ingredients front, the likes of Capol, Oterra, Pecan Deluxe Candy, and California Natural Colour, and Bell Flavours and Fragrances, and Kraft Heinz Ingredients, will all be present at this year’s show.

These sessions have come to be regarded as a highly-prized aspect of the expo offer a valuable insight into the region’s full value chain of the confectionery and snacks market, with a number of fresh innovations being anticipated for the 2026 edition.
• Registration for the Expo at sweetsandsnacks.com  If you’ve any show news or views contact myself, editor Neill Barston at [email protected] if you would like to meet up or have any content to share regarding this year’s must-attend show.