Registration opens for US Sweets and Snacks Expo 25th anniversary event
Organisers of the Sweets and Snacks Expo have officially opened registration for this year’s event, as it returns to Chicago in celebration of its 25th anniversary edition, writes Neill Barston.
The major industry showcase is re-adopting its long-term home at McCormick Place, between 23-26 May, after pandemic measures resulted in its temporary relocation to Indianapolis last year.
This year’s trade event is expected to attract hundreds of the world’s most renowned candy and snack makers, as well as suppliers, showcasing their latest industry developments, as well as education and insight sessions.
Confectionery Production has previously covered the key trade fair, but Covid-19 restrictions last year meant that the event remained off-limits to many global locations, due to flight bans in place including for Europe, which have recently been lifted.
The 2022 Sweets and Snacks show will kick off with the annual Most Innovative New Product Awards, showcasing groundbreaking ideas, concepts and products in the candy and snacks categories.
As its organisers, the National Confectioners Association, note, the four-day event brings product innovations, actionable insights and unparalleled access to thousands of confectionery and snack retailers, manufacturers and suppliers. This trade show offers attendees unique opportunities to glean new insights while safely getting back to business in person.
“The Sweets & Snacks Expo serves as the launch pad for innovative new products and industry-shaping trends. There’s no better way to get a taste of the best in candy and snacks than by experiencing it in person,” John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said. “We’re thrilled to celebrate 25 years of success by providing this opportunity for attendees to return to business, get inspired and create valuable connections with the best minds in the industry.”
In addition to the new products and trends that will be unveiled at the Sweets & Snacks Expo, the 2022 show will also offer a robust educational programme. The popular Eye-Opener sessions and trend forecast presentations will tackle topics like the future of e-commerce and the disruption of front-end merchandising. The event also features the Sweets & Snacks Supplier Showcase, a marketplace dedicated to helping confectionery and snack suppliers highlight the ingredients, machinery, packaging and other services that help manufacturers address evolving consumer needs and desires.
The health and safety of the Sweets & Snacks Expo community remain a top priority. Show management will abide by state and local public health COVID-19 requirements and CDC guidance to keep visitors at the show safe. The current protocols include vaccination and/or testing requirements, mask usage and enhanced hygiene protocols. Visit SweetsAndSnacks.com/COVID-19 to learn more about the Sweets & Snacks Expo’s COVID-19 safety policies. For more details, visit www.sweetsandsnacks.com