Colombia has prioritized cacao not only for its quality, but also because it offers the country a chance to improve farmer livelihoods, bring security to growing regions, and expand its presence on the global stage.

We asked our readers to decide which products previously featured on CandyIndustry.com represented the best of the best for the holiday season.

Dream Pops has set its sights on the confectionery arena, announcing plans to launch plant-based, shelf-stable confections next year and in 2023.

Chef Christophe Rull won the U.S. selection round of the Cacao Barry World Chocolate Masters, held Oct. 7-8 at the Chocolate Academy in Chicago. He’ll face the best pastry chefs from around the world next year in the World Chocolate Masters final.

Michael Allured, third-generation publisher of MC Publishing Company, producer of Manufacturing Confectioner, passed away Oct. 24 at UW Hospital and Clinics. He was 68.

Phil DeConto, v.p. customer marketing, Ferrero USA, notes that with available vaccines and people becoming accustomed to taking safety precautions, families are looking forward to returning to Halloween traditions.

Retail buyers attending ECRM’s virtual Everyday and Summer Seasonal Candy Planning session Aug. 30-Sept. 10 have selected winners of the 2021 Buyer's Choice Awards.

Paul Chibe has been named Ferrero Group's global president, sugar confectionery and gums. Todd Siwak, former president and CEO of Ferrara Candy Co., will lead Ferrero's North American business as president and chief business officer.

Barry Callebaut has launched Caramel Aura, premium caramelized white chocolate solutions with no added flavors or colors, for customers in North America.

Gum sales began to rebound earlier this summer as mask mandates and other restrictions were lifted. Gum manufacturers hope this, along with product innovation, will draw consumers back to the category.