Non-chocolate candy is a consumer favorite during prosperous, inflationary and pandemic times, reveals the National Confectioners Association in a new report out today. The second-largest selling confectionery category, non-chocolate candy represents 32% of all U.S. confectionery dollar sales and growth is outpacing that of all other segments, reports data partner IRI.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year for the confectionery industry: the winter holidays. Chocolate and candy can play a role in year-round celebrations, but the $4.9 billion winter holidays season is where these treats shine, with more than half of Americans saying they plan to celebrate the season by gifting confectionery products.

Is there a better debate than the one surrounding candy corn? Love it or hate it, consumers report that there is a right way to enjoy it – and the National Confectioners Association has done the heavy lifting in terms of public opinion research to get to the bottom of this burning question. A recent NCA survey found that 33% of candy corn loyalists nibble the narrow white end, just 16% start with the wider yellow end – and more than half of all consumers just go for it and eat the entire piece at once.

Spooky, ooky, creepy and crawly? It must be Halloween – and this year, 93% of Americans intend to celebrate in a big way with plans to enjoy their favorite chocolate and candy treats, according to a recent survey from the National Confectioners Association. Whether consumers are enjoying new and innovative offerings or classic candy corn, confectionery is an iconic part of the season’s celebrations.