Retail & shopper insights

The snack segment will gain $16bn in the next few years, as consumers keep snacking at all times of day. Pic: ©GettyImages/Rimma_Bondarenko

Snacks category outpaces F&B ‘yet again’: IRI

By Kristine Sherred

The ‘snack evolution’ will continue for the foreseeable future as half of consumers are snacking at least three times a day, according to IRI’s Sally Lyons Wyatt.

Jellybeans and sour gummies have left their mark on Easter candy, too, where non-chocolate sales reach nearly 30% of total sales, according to Brach's. Pic: Getty Images/Roberto Machado Noa

Easter

Easter 2019: classic treats get an upgrade in color, shape and flavor

By Kristine Sherred

More than two in three US parents make Easter baskets, according to the National Confectioners Association – here are several that might find a new home this year: Hershey put Reese’s Pieces inside other candy, Cadbury added shimmer to its chocolate eggs,...

Kallari Chocolate from Ecuador will open a chocolate factory near its plantations in Tena this year. Photo: Kallari.

Industry insights

Cocoa origin claims on chocolate – who benefits?

By Anthony Myers

Cocoa origin claims on chocolate products are rare and at odds with the main sourcing regions of cocoa, a study from Lumina Intelligence has found, is it worthwhile for brands to indicate cocoa origin on-pack and online?

Pic: GettyImages

Technology

Blockchain innovation in the cocoa supply chain

By Anthony Myers

Technology is creating consumer expectations on privacy, trust and traceability and cannot be overstated, said mobile and digital marketing guru Tom Daly. His answer? Blockchain.

Free2b's sunflower chocolate cups were one of many allergen-friendly chocolates showcased at Expo West in Anaheim, March 6-9, 2019. Pic: K. Sherred

Expo West

Free-from and alt-sugars rule chocolate offerings at Expo West

By Kristine Sherred

Confectionery and chocolate might not seem an ideal fit for a natural foods show, but longstanding artisan chocolate brands found their place at Expo West alongside new companies looking to make their mark on the industry.

NCA SOTIC 2019: ‘Digital is the new front door’ for candy sales - video

NCA SOTIC 2019

NCA SOTIC 2019: ‘Digital is the new front door’ for candy sales

By Anthony Myers

The 135th gathering of the NCA State of the Industry Conference ended as it began on a high, more Queen songs blasting over the PA and a promise to return next year with an even better event. Here’s a brief roundup of some of the discussions that took...