The National Confectioners Association (NCA) announced today that Anton Vincent, president of Mars Wrigley North America, was recognized with NCA’s Distinguished Service Award at the 2023 State of the Industry Conference. This award honors individuals who have worked to make a positive and lasting impact on the confectionery industry, often in cooperation with NCA.

The National Confectioners Association (NCA) announced today that Ross Born, who served as chief executive officer of Just Born Quality Confections before his recent retirement,was recognized with NCA’s Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2023 State of the Industry Conference. The award recognizes his vision, hard work and dedication that has significantly contributed to the confectionery industry.

The National Confectioners Association announced Kevin Jenkins and Sharon Montgomery as the recipients of the 2023 Golden Candy Dish and Silver Candy Dish Awards, respectively. The Candy Dish Awards are presented each year by NCA’s broker community to recognize one broker and one manufacturer who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in the fields of confectionery sales, marketing and management.

The National Confectioners Association today announced Audra Vogler, CEO of Hoffmann Vogler, as the recipient of the 2023 Woman of Influence Award. Created by NCA’s Women’s Leadership Group, the award honors a woman who has demonstrated superior leadership and industry mentorship and has a proven record of growth, success and influence in the confectionery industry.

The National Confectioners Association and Candy & Snack TODAY have announced the recipients of the 2023 Confectionery Leadership Awards: Target’s Tiffany Trombley, director of seasonal candy and snacks; and Sam’s Club’s Todd Budzinski, senior director of merchandising, candy & commercial bread.  

In a clear sign of continued enthusiasm for seasonal celebrations, 92% of Americans plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day with chocolate and candy. With offerings that range in price, variety and size, there’s never been a better time to share these holiday treats with your friends, family and loved ones. 

The National Confectioners Association today announced six confectionery industry professionals selected for the 2023 Future Leadership Program. The program is dedicated to helping young professionals across the confectionery industry access networking and professional development opportunities to grow their careers.  

In response to the December 15, 2022, Consumer Reports study 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. The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) guidelines cited in the Consumer Reports study are not food safety standards.