There’s no clearer sign that the winter holidays are here than the emergence of candy canes on store shelves – but what is the “right” way to eat them? In a new consumer survey, the National Confectioners Association found that 55% of people start with the straight end, 28% go for the curved end first and 17% of consumers choose to break it into pieces. It makes sense that this debate heats up as the weather cools down: 93% of Americans say they plan to share chocolate and candy with friends and family for the winter holiday season.
Press Releases
NCA Statement on White House Winter Holidays Decor Collaboration
In response to the announcement and unveiling of The White House 2023 holiday theme and decor by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, the National Confectioners Association released the following statement from Christopher Gindlesperger, NCA’s Senior Vice President of Public Affairs & Communications. NCA is a key collaborator with The White House, helping bring the “Magic, Wonder and Joy” of the winter holidays to life throughout the executive residence.
New NCA Report: Seasonal Confectionery Is Key Driver of the Category and Business
Throughout the year, American consumers look forward to celebrating their favorite holidays and seasons with friends and family. Whether it’s exchanging heart-shaped chocolate boxes on Valentine’s Day or roasting s’mores around a summer bonfire, chocolate and candy play an important role in these special moments and seasonal celebrations.
NCA Statement on Recent Consumer Reports Chocolate and Cocoa Article
In response to an October 25, 2023 Consumer Reports article on chocolate and cocoa, the National Confectioners Association released the following statement:
“Chocolate and cocoa are safe to eat and can be enjoyed as treats as they have been for centuries. Food safety and product quality remain our highest priorities and we remain dedicated to being transparent and socially responsible.”
NCA Seeking Nominations to Honor Confectionery Industry Leaders
The National Confectioners Association is currently seeking nominations of outstanding industry leaders across several disciplines for awards that will be presented at the 2024 State of the Industry Conference (March 10-12 at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort).
NCA Statement on California Governor Newsom Signing Bill (AB 418) to Ban Certain Food Ingredients
In response to California Governor Newsom signing a bill to ban certain food ingredients, the National Confectioners Association released the following statement:
“California is once again making decisions based on soundbites rather than science. Governor Newsom’s approval of this bill will undermine consumer confidence and create confusion around food safety…
98% of Americans Will Welcome Trick-or-Treaters With Chocolate and Candy
Don’t be spooked by the most important question on everyone’s mind at this time of year: trick or treat? The answer is resoundingly in favor of treats, with 93% of Americans saying they’ll share chocolate and candy with friends and family to celebrate the Halloween season this fall. Chocolate and candy play an important role in special occasions, seasonal celebrations and the American economy – and the Halloween season is an integral component of that, driving about $6 billion in confectionery retail sales each year.
NCA Honors U.S. Representative Annie Kuster with Inaugural Jackie Walorski Award
As National Candy Month comes to a close, the National Confectioners Association honored U.S. Representative Annie Kuster (D-NH) with an award named in honor of the late Representative Jackie Walorksi (R-IN). This award honors members of Congress who show a commitment to supporting the confectionery industry and the significant impact that manufacturers of chocolate, candy, gum and mints have on the U.S. economy.
Consumers Kick Off the Summer With National Candy Month in June
June is National Candy Month, and there is no better way to kick off the summer than by embracing this month-long celebration that is gaining momentum with retailers and consumers nationwide. Major retail activation of National Candy Month started in 2020 with just 570 stores and by 2022, more than 50,000 stores participated in summer promotions that showcased the fun and unique nature of chocolate and candy.
NCA’s Always A Treat Campaign Wins Gold Stevie for ESG PR Campaign of the Year
The National Confectioners Association’s industry-shaping Always A Treat campaign won a Gold Stevie for ESG PR Campaign of the Year in the 21st Annual American Business Awards®. The Stevie Awards are the only national, all-encompassing business awards in the United States that recognize excellence in public relations, technology, human resources, social media and other categories.
NCA’s Always A Treat Campaign Wins 2023 PRNews Social Impact Award
The groundbreaking and innovative Always A Treat campaign, spearheaded by the National Confectioners Association, took first place in the 2023 PRNews Social Impact Awards Cause Branding Campaign category. The PRNews Social Impact Awards honor organizations that use their platforms to better their community and the global community at large.
