WASHINGTON – For the first time in its 20-year history, NCA’s Sweets & Snacks Expo has been named to Trade Show Executive’s Gold 100 list. Trade shows named to the Gold 100 list include the largest trade shows in the world as well as those that have a track record of excellence in their sectors.
“Earning a coveted spot on the Gold 100 is a reflection of the tireless efforts of our team and our loyal retail customer attendees and exhibitors who have all helped make the show the success it is today,” commented John Downs, NCA president and CEO. “Receiving three ‘Fastest 50’ awards, marketing recognition awards and making the Gold 100 list all in a five year period is no small feat and I am proud of what we have accomplished so far. Our trade show reflects the strength and vibrancy of the confectionery and snack categories.”
Sold out for the fifth straight year, the 2017 Sweets & Snacks Expo welcomed more than 800 exhibitors and more than 160,000 square feet in exhibit space. Held at Chicago’s McCormick Place every May, the 2017 Expo had 18,000 registrants, increasing the number of retail customer attendance and quality.
With more than 80 percent of the buying power in the candy category and more than 75 percent of the snack category’s buying power in attendance, the Sweets & Snacks Expo has singled itself out as the most vital industry event to find solutions and grow business. Attendees were able to visit the 217 new exhibitors, view the 45 hottest retailer-approved New Product award nominees, and learn from any of the targeted knowledge-building sessions.
“The Gold 100 Class of 2017 represents another all-star collection of the biggest and best exhibitions of the previous year,” said TSE Publisher/Editor Gabrielle Weiss.
The 2018 Sweets & Snacks Expo is more than 90 percent sold out and will be held May 22-24 at Chicago’s McCormick Place. Registration will open in early 2018. For more information visit www.Sweets&Snacks.com.
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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA):
The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization that promotes the unique role of chocolate, candy, gum and mints in a happy, balanced lifestyle and the companies that make these special treats. Through advocacy and regulatory guidance, communications, industry insights and retail and supply chain engagement, NCA helps create an environment that enables candy makers and confectionery retailers to thrive. As the leading association for the $36 billion U.S. confectionery industry, NCA works to ensure that chocolate and candy are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy. Confections are produced in all 50 states, creating jobs for approximately 55,000 workers in more than 1,300 manufacturing facilities across the country. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Sponsored by the National Confectioners Association, the Sweets & Snacks Expo is the confectionery and snack industry’s most successful, world class event. It is unrivaled in new product launches, business building solutions and innovations in merchandising. 17,000 qualified professionals attend with global presence from 90 countries. More than 800 companies displaying more than 4 acres of candy and snack products participate in the Expo. The event is held each May at Chicago’s McCormick Place.
