Washington, D.C. (April 23, 2019) – Debuting at the 2019 Sweets and Snacks Expo is a completely redesigned Destination Retail. This exciting new space features the latest in front-end merchandising, new candy and snacks shopping occasions, and merchandising solutions to transform the candy and snack buying experience.

“Although many categories are accelerating online sales, shoppers still value the in-store experience as 97% of candy and snack sales still come from brick-and-mortar,” Larry Wilson, NCA Vice-President of Industry Affairs, said. “We continue to see growth opportunities by offering a Continuum of Choice at checkout, shopper engagement in the center of the store, and incremental occasions like June’s National Candy Month and Super Bowl that are becoming as big as traditional seasons.”

Located in the main exhibit hall, Expo attendees will explore the interactive space, including a storefront replica and interior walking path that mirrors the in-store shopper experience. The area will also highlight new technology to attract shoppers as well as many innovative display vehicles.

At Destination Retail, attendees will be able to view:

  • Front-end checkout and self-checkout examples, highlighting recent research and insights on the advantages to offering a Continuum of Choice that meets shopper need states;
  • In-aisle technology driving greater shopper engagement;
  • Incremental merchandising occasions for candy and snacks;
  • Innovative merchandising solutions from candy and snack companies exhibiting at Expo.

Destination Retail will be open during all show hours and is presented jointly by NCA and IMC. To register for the show and view the full Expo schedule, visit SweetsAndSnacks.com.

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About the Sweets & Snacks Expo
Sponsored by the National Confectioners Association, the Sweets & Snacks Expo is the confectionery and snack industry’s most successful, world-class event. It is unrivaled in new product launches, business building solutions and innovations in merchandising. More than 15,000 qualified professionals attend with global presence from 90 countries. More than 800 companies displaying more than 4 acres of candy and snack products participate in the Expo. The event is held each May at Chicago’s McCormick Place.

About the National Confectioners Association (NCA)
The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization that advances, protects and promotes chocolate, candy, gum and mints, and the companies that make these special treats. As the leading association for the U.S. confectionery industry, NCA helps ensure the public understands and appreciates the unique role that chocolate and candy can play in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more about the economic impact of the confectionery industry at PowerOfSweet.com, and follow NCA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Contact
Carly Schildhaus
202-534-1440
Carly.Schildhaus@CandyUSA.com