The 2021 Sweets & Snacks Expo took place on June 22-25 in Indianapolis, showcasing more than two years’ worth of products from the confectionery and snack industries on the show floor.
Recently, the Sweets & Snacks Expo released the top trends for the 2021 confectionery and snack categories, and these explosive trends will be seen on the show floor in Indianapolis.
“The Sweets & Snacks Expo is where the top candy and snack companies showcase their newest products, and this year is even more important as we get back to business,” says John Downs, president and chief executive officer of the National Confectioners Association. “While consumer purchasing habits may have shifted to meet the new environment, manufacturers are exceeding expectations with new products, flavors and innovations.”
Here are some of the trends highlighted at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo:
- Smaller pack sizes – More companies continue to develop smaller pack sizes containing 200 calories or less. This trend empowers the consumer to make informed choices when they are ready to treat themselves to their favorite snack or candy
- Tropical flavors – This year, tropical flavors are taking center stage with a focus on pineapple and coconut
- Mix and match – Candy and snack manufacturers are bringing consumers the best of both worlds, whether they are looking for sweet, salty, fruity or tart
- Spice it up – Spicy snacks featuring flavors like chili, sriracha, jalapeño and habanero will be hot this year
All of these trends and more were on display on the Sweets & Snacks Expo show floor and in the show’s Destination Retail, which provides ideas for driving excitement around the four big confectionery sales seasons – Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween and the winter holidays.
