Major accolades will be taking centre stage again with the National Confectioners Association 2027 industry accolades, with nominations now open for next year’s honours, writes Neill Barston.

As the major US trade body explained, its annual celebration of the sector’s finest talents seeks to recognise individuals whose leadership, partnerships and contributions help move the confectionery industry forward.

Nominations are open for the Confectionery Leadership Award, Golden Candy Dish Award, Silver Candy Dish Award, and Woman of Influence Award and will be accepted through Friday, Oct. 9.

As the organisation confirmed, award recipients will be recognised during NCA’s 2027 State of the Industry Conference SOTIC, led by the group’s president and CEO, John Downs, pictured main image, taking place February 28 – March 2 at the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, with the awards taking place on the Sunday evening.

Confectionery Production has played its part in the event, which forms a major celebration of achievements within the region, as well as setting the scene for the sector’s innovation landscape ahead.

Notably, the Confectionery Leadership Award will recognise two exceptional retail and wholesale professionals who lead and inspire, bring fresh ideas to the confectionery category, drive measurable growth, and build strong industry partnerships. Retail and wholesale buyers, category managers, and retail executives are eligible to receive the award, with nominations accepted from NCA broker and manufacturer members.

The Golden Candy Dish Award is the highest honor presented to a broker/sales agency industry member who goes above and beyond the call of business to promote, grow and advocate for the confectionery industry. NCA broker and manufacturer members may submit nominations.

The Silver Candy Dish Award recognizes a standout broker/sales agency partner whose leadership, business impact and strong relationships within the manufacturing community help elevate the confectionery category. Eligible nominees include sales, marketing, or management professionals within confectionery manufacturing, with nominations submitted by NCA broker members.

Moreover, the Woman of Influence Award, presented by NCA’s Women’s Leadership Group, honors a woman who demonstrates outstanding leadership and mentorship, inspires others and creates opportunities for women’s advancement across the confectionery industry. Any woman active in the confectionery industry is eligible, and nominations may be submitted by any confectionery industry professional.

To learn more about these awards and submit a nomination, visit CandyUSA.com/AwardsNominations.