What made you want to write a book about the candy industry?I am always intrigued by situation. That, for me, is where each of my five novels has always begun.

Sweet and sour fruit flavors, liquid-filled centers and natural ingredients are making new gummy products better-tasting …and better for you, too.

At World Market, candy is a foreign and domestic affair. The Oakland, Calif.-based retailer brings together brands from internationally known confectioners and chocolatiers as well as nostalgic American sweets, seasonal favorites and value-priced private label products.

Groceries are just an online order and delivery away for many consumers nationwide, thanks to Internet retailer Peapod.

Celebrities flock to Las Vegas’ Sugar Factory, where fashion and flavor combine for a unique take on the traditional lollipop, among other confections. Soon tourists, locals and the stars will be able to shop at one of four Sin City locations.

Sin City tourists marvel at M&M’S World, with its floor-to-ceiling-high wall of customizable chocolate candies in 22 colors and a whopping 28,000 sq. ft. of merchandise for fans of the international confectionery brand. The licensing story continues at retail stores nationwide.

It's not just the English who love the buttery, textural crunch of toffee. New American and international takes on the traditional treat are conversation starters for toffee fans and retailers alike.

Tulsa, Okla.-based QuikTrip convenience stores boast an aesthetic all their own, built on high-quality products, programs and employees.

Batavia, Ill.-based ALDI, Inc. creates a captive candy and snack audience through its purposeful store layouts and a blend of well-known name brands and private label products at recession-friendly price points.

Handmade and moulded chocolates and lactose-free/kosher parve confections are among the many niche offerings at Illinois Nut & Candy, where kids are always welcome, repeat customers are common and the community matters.