Niche followings, small batches give premium chocolatiers flexibility to try new things without much risk.

The newest addition to the THINaddictives product line are Dark Chocolate Almond THINaddictives.

The U.S. confectionery market is expected to see about $6 billion in increased sales in the next five years, and premium products are driving the growth. But the industry is growing faster globally than it is domestically and commodity costs are impacting costs from the farm to the finished product.

What once began as a hobby evolved into a full-blown international obsession.

There are several factors at play: heightened consumer interest in small batch, artisanal foods; a desire to know where food comes from; clean labels; and health considerations.

Five confectionery buyers from five different candy stores gathered in a small conference room - and once they started talking, they didn't stop.

The new TCHO Pairings bar take common flavors and turn them into extraordinary chocolate bars.