2025 State of Treating Report

The 6th annual State of Treating report reflects on confectionery shopping and treating trends in 2024 — a year when many consumers altered their purchases to make the most of their budgets. The study includes an in-depth category performance review along with the how and why behind the numbers to help uncover category growth opportunities in 2025 and beyond.

Analysis Provided By:

Made Financially Possible By:

Sales Data Provided By:

Circana

Dive Into Our Custom Research

In addition to our robust annual State of Treating report, each year NCA releases an in-depth look at one segment of the category – probing consumer attitudes and behaviors, shopping trends, market data, and more. We rotate annually between chocolate, non-chocolate candy, and seasonal confectionery. 

Our Story

Our Strong Economic Impact
Power of Sweet

For 250 years, the confectionery industry has been a stable force in the American economy. We create tens of thousands of good-paying jobs manufacturing chocolate, candy, gum, and mints. Plus, our industry supports many additional jobs in agriculture, transportation, retail, and other sectors. Wages earned and taxes paid in the supply chain benefit communities across the United States, generating additional jobs and strengthening local economies nationwide.

Chocolate and Candy Are Different From Other Foods
Always a Treat

To help consumers choose the right treat for any occasion, chocolate and candy companies are offering more variety in pack sizes and portion options than ever before—all while reminding consumers that candy is a treat and not a center-of-the-plate food. We’re helping consumers manage their intake of calories and added sugar while still enjoying fun and unique confectionery products.

The Role of Confections in our Lives
Fun & Unique

Confectionery is more than a sweet treat. It’s a spark of joy that turns everyday moments into something special and special occasions into truly memorable events. Chocolate, candy, gum, and mints make memories a little brighter and a lot more fun. American confectioners are proud to craft products that have connected generations, inspired celebrations, and delivered delight for more than 250 years.

Candy Moments

Special candy moments like Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, and the winter holidays bring people closer together and help them connect through the sharing and gifting of candy, chocolate, gum and mints. Dive into how we’re celebrating each of these special seasonal occasions and join us by participating in the festivities.

Lynn Wylie

Vice President of Industry Affairs