This year's Expo anticipates over 1,000 exhibitors and more than 14,000 industry professionals, including manufacturers, retailers, brokers, and suppliers.
Price increases
But as the industry gathers to drive innovation, share insights, and shape the future of the confectionery and snack industries, Bloomberg reports that Nestlé USA is increasing prices for some chocolate products due to rising commodity costs despite revealing better-than-expected sales growth in the first quarter.
The company’s CEO, Laurent Freixe, said the group is taking “as much price as we can to cover our costs while being mindful of the consumer response in a competitive environment.”
Still, this latest move and competitors' similar price hikes suggest that confectionery will stay expensive for US consumers in the near term.
North America was one of the Swiss company’s weakest-performing regions in the first quarter and traditionally does not have a significant presence at the Sweets & Snacks Expo, compared to US rivals like Hershey, Mars, and Mondelēz International.
Earlier this month, Hershey revealed that its prices of everyday chocolates are up 8% year-to-date while volume is down 4.5%.
It is reported that Mondelēz is also reconfiguring its chocolate business to offer a range of pack sizes while keeping prices low for certain key products.
Anthony Myers
Consumer preferences
Hershey said as consumer preferences continue to evolve across the snacking landscape, its is strategically expanding its portfolio with innovative offerings that “blend beloved classics with new flavours and textures.”
Its new portfolio will be revealed this week in Indianapolis, where the company will showcase its commitment to product innovation and unveil a transformative packaging strategy designed to enhance the shopping experience and bring additional value to shoppers.
"The future of snacking is about meaningful innovation that resonates with evolving consumer preferences and creates value for our retail and distributor partners,” said Tiffany Menyhart, chief customer officer The Hershey Company.
“Our research shows that shoppers seek convenience and variety in their snacking choices, which is why we are investing heavily in stand-up bags for snack size chocolate and multipacks for our salty offerings. This strategic packaging transformation, plus a robust innovation pipeline across our entire snacking portfolio, solidifies Hershey as the category growth leader, while strengthening relationships with consumers and retailers for the long term."
Other highlights of the premier trade-only event include:
- Supplier Showcase (May 12–13): A dedicated marketplace for suppliers to present ingredients, machinery, packaging, and services supporting manufacturers in meeting evolving consumer needs.
- Educational Sessions: Over 40 sessions led by industry experts will delve into topics such as sustainability, artificial intelligence in product development, augmented packaging, and strategies for engaging future generations of consumers.
- Startup Street: A platform for emerging companies to showcase innovative products and concepts, providing attendees with insights into the industry's future.
- Specialty Market: Highlighting products in high-demand categories, including allergen-free, sustainable, organic, and gourmet options, reflecting the diverse preferences of today’s consumers.
Trends to watch
Attendees can expect to explore bold new flavours inspired by global cuisines, limited-time, seasonal offerings designed to create urgency and excitement, and products that enhance special moments and occasions through innovative packaging and portion sizes.
John Downs, NCA president & CEO, said: “The candy and snack industries continue to set the pace for innovation across the food industry, and the Sweets & Snacks Expo is where it all begins. Year after year, the show brings together a vibrant community that embraces bold ideas — driving manufacturers to create, inspiring retailers to surprise and delight, and ultimately delivering more exciting options for consumers.”
- For more information and registration details, visit the Sweets & Snacks Expo website: sweetsandsnacks.com.
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