The 2014 Sweets & Snacks Expo, sponsored by the National Confectioners Association (NCA), continues to expand its status as a global resource for products, innovations and insights. To be held May 20-22 at Chicago’s McCormick Place, the expo already is boasting a sold-out show floor with a double-digit wait list and exhibitors from around the world, according to NCA.
“Last year, the expo hosted a sold-out show to an audience of more than 15,000 qualified industry professionals,” says NCA president Larry Graham. “For the fourth year in a row, we experienced significant growth in not only floor size, but also number of attendees; this is a proven trend reflecting the value that our event and NCA provide to the industry.”
“The power of U.S. brands around the world is truly harnessed at the expo, which serves as a destination for global confectionery and snack markets to come together,” adds Tim Quinn, expo chairman and vice president, trade development, Mars Chocolate North America. “Our attendees know not to overlook the selling power of sweets and snacks. Globally, sweets and snacks are a $416 billion category and, collectively, they grew 3% in 2012—twice the pace of overall store sales at only 1.5%.”
The 2014 show will welcome back the Brazilian, Chinese, German, Ecuadorian and Mexican pavilions and host the European Confections pavilion for the first time. The expo also will feature a new product showcase, a floor plan highlighting export-friendly companies and a guided retail tour. An International Welcome Lounge, located adjacent to the show floor, offer concierge services and provide a space where translators and representatives can answer questions and global visitors can be comfortable and productive during their visit.
For more information about the 2014 Sweets & Snacks Expo or to register for the event, visit www.sweetandsnacks.com.
