National Confectioners Association Show Gets Even Sweeter

June 9, 2013

The National Confectioners Association’s Sweets & Snacks Expo, held May 21-23 at Chicago’s McCormick Place, not only snagged a 10-percent increase in attendees, but also the number of new exhibitors rose 17 percent and the showfloor grew 9 percent, compared with the 2012 event.


“For the fourth year in a row, the Expo demonstrated significant growth in all areas. Our 10- percent increase in overall Expo registration is an accomplishment we relish,” said NCA President Larry Graham.


He added, “In a challenging economy, it is apparent by the continued growth that our event provides vital tools, insights, innovations and resources that the industry values.”


The number of attendees at the 2013 show jumped to 15,389, new exhibitors increased to 164 and the showfloor expanded to 157,100 net square feet.


International attendees also saw a big boost, with a double-digit uptick coming from more than 90 countries.


“NCA recognizes the power of U.S. brands around the world and we feel the 2013 Expo successfully positioned itself as a destination for world markets to come together,” Graham said.


He added, “We plan to continue expanding our global efforts and outreach for future shows by partnering with firms including Planet Retail and Euromonitor.”


The Most Innovative New Product Awards showcase saw a 17-percent increase in entries, with more than 2,000, that were whittled down and voted on by 2,000-plus retailer ballots.


“This demonstrates how manufacturers see the Sweets & Snacks Expo as a vital vehicle in promoting and sharing product innovation within the candy and snack industry,” said Tim Quinn, vice president Trade Development of Mars Chocolate North America and Expo chairman.


Other highlights from the show included keynote sessions featured from Duke University’s “Coach K” about the value of leadership and teamwork, as well as Pulitzer-prizing-winning columnist George Will’s assessment of how politics affect your business.


The sold-out Gourmet Showcase also featured a ‘Taste of Gourmet’ area, showcasing artisans conducting upscale pairings and demonstrations throughout the show, and for the third year, startups showed off their wares in the Innovation Alley area.


The show’s social media presence also grew, with its official Facebook page seeing a 38-percent increase in ‘likes’ and the event app being downloaded by several thousand attendees.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
One of the most iconic names on the Las Vegas Strip just got an upgrade. Mandalay Bay has everything that your business needs from a refreshed convention space designed to inspire productivity and creativity, to an impressive selection of world-class restaurants and amenities. If you're looking for a venue that's both inviting and innovative, you have to be here. New Wave Experiences Mandalay Bay continues to invest in a new wave of enhancements both in the convention space and within the resort as a whole. New restaurant openings including Orla by Michael Mina, drawing inspiration from the award-winning chef’s childhood in Egypt and with flavors and décor inspired by the spices found in markets common to coastal Mediterranean towns, as well as Caramá by Wolfgang Puck, bringing the essence of Italy and spirit of Wolfgang into one concept, are recent additions. The Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas also experienced a recent remodel of all 424 rooms. Swingers, a high-end, adults-only golf and entertainment concept will debut in Fall 2024. Enhanced Technology Creating a truly effective conference venue requires careful thought into what a business needs: the right technology, capacity, and inspiration to bring ideas to the next level. As part of the resort’s refresh, Mandalay Bay implemented state-of-the-art technology upgrades, installing cutting-edge Cat6A Ethernet cabling throughout the convention center. This advancement doubles the frequency of data transmission, enabling lightning-fast speeds up to 9400% faster. The convention center now boasts 11 dynamic digital walls, spanning up to 24' x 13', strategically positioned for brand placements, sponsorships and targeted event messaging. Additionally, attendees can benefit from 20 double-sided 55" mobile flexible display units, facilitating effortless navigation to meeting rooms and events. RFID locks were installed on all meeting room doors, and over 200 motion detection cameras have been placed throughout the space. Refreshing New Design & Fine Art The newly remodeled convention space provides a bright and vibrant atmosphere that complements Mandalay Bay's tropical-inspired brand. Featuring white-washed walls and ceilings adorned with bold floral patterns in cerulean and coral tones, the space is complemented by warm walnut accent walls. In addition to the redesign of all pre-function spaces, meeting rooms and ballrooms, Mandalay Bay's 1 million square feet of exhibit space has undergone a rejuvenation, including new paint, covered pillars and relocated strobe lights. Sustainable Spectacles Mandalay Bay is committed to Focused on What Matters and creating more responsible meetings. Refillable water stations all available around the resort, cutting unnecessary plastic usage from single-use bottles. The Mandalay Bay campus’ recent upgrades represent a bold step forward in redefining the Las Vegas experience. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and unparalleled service, Mandalay Bay sets a new standard for excellence in business hospitality. Whether you're seeking cutting-edge conference facilities, world-class dining options, or simply a luxurious retreat, an unparalleled meeting experience awaits.