Sweets & Snacks Expo 2024: A Delightful Journey into the Future of Confectionery and Snacks

Stepping into the vibrant world of the Sweets & Snacks Expo, my inner child was instantly captivated by the kaleidoscope of colors, irresistible aromas, and boundless excitement. It was truly a land brimming with innovative treats, friendly mascots, and a tangible sense of delight – the perfect way to celebrate National Candy Month.

For years, the Sweets & Snacks Expo has been a highlight on my calendar. I relish the unparalleled opportunity to immerse myself in the latest industry trends, gaining firsthand insights into what’s shaping the future of confectionery and snacks. Equally rewarding is witnessing the year-on-year growth and success of the small businesses I’ve had the pleasure of discovering at this exceptional event. My past reviews of the Expo can be found here, here, here, and here, each reflecting the dynamic evolution of this fascinating sector.

Sweets & Snacks Expo Relocates to Indianapolis: A New Chapter

After a highly successful 25-year run in Chicago, the Sweets & Snacks Expo embarked on an exciting new chapter in 2024, relocating to Indianapolis. This move marks the beginning of a multi-year partnership with the vibrant city, signifying a strategic evolution for one of the most anticipated events in the food industry. John Downs, president & CEO of The National Confectioners Association (NCA), the esteemed host organization for the Expo, articulated the significance of this transition. “With the unwavering support of our Sweets & Snacks community and dedicated partners at Visit Indy – along with the enthusiastic endorsement of the Governor of Indiana, the Mayor of Indianapolis, and many other key stakeholders – we are proudly planting roots in a city that is undeniably on the rise,” explained Downs. This relocation not only offers new logistical advantages but also opens fresh avenues for growth and collaboration, promising a revitalized experience for exhibitors and attendees alike.

Opening Ceremony & Event Highlights

The 2024 Expo commenced with a prestigious press conference and an engaging opening ceremony, drawing notable figures from across the state and city. Among the distinguished attendees were Indiana Governor Eric J. Holcomb and Indianapolis Deputy Mayor Judith Thomas, underscoring the significant economic and cultural impact the Expo brings to its new home. Their presence highlighted the strong civic support and collaborative spirit that welcomed the industry’s premier event to Indianapolis.

Beyond the official proceedings, the Expo floor itself was a hive of activity, featuring an unparalleled number of exhibitors showcasing the latest innovations. The event thoughtfully integrated numerous networking opportunities, allowing industry professionals to forge new connections and strengthen existing ones. Complementing the bustling trade show, a comprehensive series of education sessions provided invaluable insights into market trends, consumer behavior, and business strategies, ensuring attendees departed with both inspiration and actionable knowledge.

Sweets & Snacks Expo 2024: Key Statistics at a Glance

• 1,000 Exhibitors: A groundbreaking record for the show, demonstrating robust industry growth and a diverse range of companies eager to showcase their products.
• 300+ First-Time Exhibitors: This significant number highlights the dynamism of the confectionery and snack sectors, with new players constantly bringing fresh ideas and competitive spirit.
• 16,000 Attendees: A testament to the Expo’s enduring appeal and its critical role as a central gathering point for buyers, retailers, and industry enthusiasts.
• 250,000+ Square Feet of Show Floor: An expansive layout providing ample space for discovery, product demonstrations, and engaging interactions across the vast landscape of sweets and snacks.
• 25+ Countries Represented: Emphasizing the Expo’s international reach and its position as a global platform for culinary exchange and cross-cultural business opportunities.

Most Innovative New Product Awards

A highlight of the Sweets & Snacks Expo is always the prestigious Most Innovative New Product Awards. This year, 13 categories celebrated groundbreaking ideas, visionary concepts, and truly innovative products spanning both the candy and snack industries. The top honor for “Most Innovative New Product” was proudly claimed by Nerdy Nuts for their exceptional Avalanche Peanut Butter Treat. Nerdy Nuts also demonstrated their mastery in the “Sweet Snacks” category, winning with their delightful Banana Cream Pie Peanut Butter Treat. These awards underscore the industry’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering exciting new flavors and experiences to consumers.

Emerging Trends Shaping the Sweets & Snacks Industry

The Sweets & Snacks Expo is not just a marketplace; it’s a crystal ball for consumer preferences, revealing the top trends that will soon dominate candy and snack aisles. Here are the most significant shifts consumers can anticipate in the coming months, as unveiled at this year’s Expo:

1. Enhancing Special Moments and Occasions

Companies are keenly attuned to consumer desires, developing innovative new products designed to elevate every occasion. Whether it’s celebrating the major four seasons or adding sparkle to spontaneous gatherings, a wide array of package sizes and themed treats are emerging. From Super Bowl parties to festive summer barbecues and spooky Halloween celebrations – and everything in between – candy and snacks are increasingly positioned as essential components for enhancing family traditions, social gatherings, and seasonal festivities. This trend reflects a broader consumer need for joy and connection, with food playing a central role in creating memorable experiences.

2. Social Media Stars: Interactive & Gamified Products

The digital age has transformed how we discover and enjoy food, with candy and snacks frequently taking center stage on social media platforms. Consumers are eager to share their favorite innovations, creating buzz and driving viral trends. Expect upcoming feeds on TikTok and Instagram to be filled with interactive and gamified products – treats that not only taste good but also offer an engaging, shareable experience. This trend capitalizes on the desire for novelty and connection, turning a simple snack into a digital moment worthy of sharing.

3. Multisensory Experiences: The Power of Texture and Flavor

Consumers are actively seeking delights that engage more than just their taste buds. The “multisensory experiences” trend promises fun and unique textures alongside exciting flavor combinations. Whether it’s the satisfying crunch of freeze-dried candy, the airy lightness of puffed snacks, or an entirely new fusion of tastes and mouthfeels, the industry is innovating to deliver truly immersive snack experiences. This trend caters to a sophisticated palate that values complexity and surprise in every bite.

The Rise of Freeze-Dried Candy and Produce

Trend number three, focusing on multisensory experiences, was particularly pronounced at this year’s Expo, evidenced by an impressive variety of freeze-dried options. As a long-time enthusiast of freeze-dried fruits – which I incorporate into my baking and enjoy as healthy snacks (discover some of my uses here, here, here and here) – I was thrilled to see its expanding presence. Online studies consistently project robust growth for freeze-dried produce, as consumers increasingly appreciate its inherent healthfulness, preserved nutritional value, and unparalleled convenience through easy storage and extended shelf life. The unique texture and intensified flavors achieved through freeze-drying make it an exciting frontier for both health-conscious consumers and culinary innovators.

Freeze-dried candy, in particular, has emerged as a super-trendy phenomenon, directly fueled by consumers’ burgeoning interest in multi-sensory sweet and snack experiences. The desire for fun, unique, and never-before-tried combinations of flavors and textures is driving this innovation (candyusa.com). For those interested in a deeper dive, a thorough analysis of this captivating trend in confectionery can be found here. The process of freeze-drying locks in intense flavors and creates an entirely new textural dimension, transforming familiar candies into novel, exciting experiences.

Featured Products: Innovations and Discoveries at the Expo

One of the most rewarding aspects of the Sweets & Snacks Expo is the chance to discover groundbreaking products and re-connect with inspiring businesses. Here are some of the most exciting brands and their offerings that captured my attention this year:

LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW: A Licorice Revelation

• Are you a fan of licorice (or liquorice)? Historically, I have not been. Its distinct, often potent flavor profile typically deterred me. However, my recent tasting of Danish licorice in Indianapolis was a truly transformative experience, compelling me to fundamentally reconsider my long-held opinion.

The fascinating journey of Lakrids by Bülow began with Chef Johan Bülow’s vision: to craft high-quality licorice, a beloved Scandinavian delicacy, and share its exquisite potential with the world. From modest beginnings, the company has achieved remarkable milestones, culminating in their Passionfruit Chocolate-Coated Licorice winning the prestigious award for “Most Innovative New Product in the Gourmet/Premium Candy category” at the Sweets & Snacks Expo. Lakrids by Bülow boasts a truly captivating story, and their products are globally recognized for their unparalleled flavor, distinctive uniqueness, and unwavering commitment to sustainability.

My aversion to licorice stemmed from its often overwhelming and medicinal taste. Yet, trying Lakrids by Bülow was a revelation. The delicate, perfectly balanced mélange of passion fruit and licorice flavors I sampled in Indianapolis was unlike anything I had encountered before. It offered a sophisticated sweetness with a subtle, nuanced licorice note that harmonized beautifully. This is a truly exceptional, high-quality product, backed by impressive credentials and clearly poised to charm a global audience.

Alter Eco: Delicious, Sustainable Chocolate

• Alter Eco was founded in 2005 by friends and passionate activists Mathieu Senard and Edouard Rollet. Their ambitious mission was clear: “to bring delicious foods to conscious consumers, while simultaneously addressing critical issues of fair trade and environmental impact.” In 2009, Alter Eco achieved Certified B Corporation status, a significant milestone. This was soon followed by the innovative launch of compostable packaging and the establishment of the impactful Alter Eco Foundation, dedicated to combating climate change and inequality through regenerative agriculture practices.

I thoroughly enjoyed sampling Alter Eco’s latest product innovations, including the exquisite Creme Brulee, vibrant Orange Creme, and delicate Raspberry Creme Truffle Thins. Alongside these new delights, I revisited a variety of their classic chocolate bars and renowned chocolate truffles. Their clean, organic treats are not only incredibly delicious but also profoundly inspiring. Alter Eco’s unwavering commitment to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices sets a remarkable standard, serving as an exemplary model for other companies to emulate in the industry.

Nick’s: Guilt-Free Indulgence

• The inspiring journey of Nick’s began in 2014 when Niclas “Nick” Luthman received a pre-diabetes diagnosis, prompting a significant shift in his diet and lifestyle. As a mechanical engineer by profession, Nick leveraged his innate problem-solving skills, embarking on thousands of culinary experiments to master food engineering. This tireless dedication led him to create delectable treats that uncompromisingly balanced exceptional flavor with genuine health benefits. Remarkably, after declining an offer to become Chief Food Engineer for the Swedish Space Agency (a testament to his talent!), Nick channeled his passion entirely into building his business. The results are truly impressive: a range of delicious, better-for-you snacks. At the Sweets & Snacks Expo, I thoroughly enjoyed sampling Nick’s vegan, low-carb, and keto-friendly bars. The harmonious combination of crunchy whole roasted peanuts, chewy caramel, and rich chocolate was an absolute delight – a resounding yes to guilt-free indulgence.

Uglies: Rescuing Potatoes, Crafting Chips

• It’s a startling fact that in the United States alone, an estimated 6 billion pounds of produce goes unharvested or unsold each year, primarily due to minor aesthetic imperfections. Uglies is a brand on a powerful mission to confront this pervasive food waste issue. By skillfully utilizing potatoes with slight cosmetic flaws – those deemed “ugly” by conventional beauty standards but perfectly delicious – they craft exceptional kettle-cooked potato chips. Their commendable efforts extend beyond reducing waste; Uglies actively supports local farmers and contributes to fighting hunger. Over the years, the company has successfully rescued over 25 million pounds of these otherwise discarded potatoes, transforming them into popular, savory snacks.

Uglies kettle chips are available in seven delicious varieties, catering to diverse palates, including several vegan options like Sea Salt, Salt & Vinegar, BBQ, and Jalapeño, alongside Cheddar & Sour Cream and Sweet Potato. I particularly appreciate their commitment to transparency and quality, reflected in their impressive certifications: non-GMO, kosher, gluten-free, nut-free, and crucially, upcycled. Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of hosting a giveaway collaboration with Uglies on my Instagram channel, a partnership I was proud to undertake. I will continue to champion Uglies and their admirable dedication to creating delicious, high-quality snacks from produce that would otherwise be needlessly discarded.

Neptune: Sustainable Seafood Snacks

• Sophisticated fish jerky for snacking? Indeed, and why not? Neptune’s Founder, Nick Mendoza, developed a profound passion for sustainable aquaculture and marine science during his tenure at Stanford. This experience ignited his “obsession with inspiring people to fight for a better global seafood industry through something they could hold, touch, and taste.” Neptune is actively working to reduce seafood waste, provide crucial support to local wild-caught fisheries, and empower consumers to advocate for and build a more responsible and efficient food system.

Neptune fish jerky is meticulously crafted using fresh, sustainably sourced, and natural ingredients. It is proud to be gluten-free, preservative-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and non-GMO, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences and health-conscious consumers. I was profoundly impressed not only by the robust and authentic flavors of these unique snacks but also by the unwavering transparency of the business and its overarching, impactful mission. Neptune truly offers a savory snack that aligns with modern values.

Vermont Smoke & Cure: Artisanal Meat Snacks

• Nestled in Hinesburg, Vermont, Vermont Smoke & Cure is an artisanal smokehouse renowned for its high-quality, gluten-free meat snacks. Their products are carefully made without sodium nitrites, artificial colors, preservatives, or artificial flavors, prioritizing natural goodness. They rely on real spices and wholesome ingredients to achieve their rich flavors. Furthermore, all their offerings are commendably free from MSG and major allergens, including milks, eggs, gluten, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and soy, ensuring they are accessible and safe for a broader consumer base.

I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to the Vermont Smoke & Cure booth, where I learned about their diverse product range and the foundational principles that guide their business. I was particularly impressed by their thoughtful use of authentic spices and their commitment to sourcing responsibly grown meats. Moreover, their dedication to upholding high animal welfare standards resonated deeply with me, reflecting a holistic approach to quality and ethics in food production.

AshaPops: Ancient Superfood, Modern Snack

• Having previously highlighted popped water lily seeds in connection with the Sweets & Snacks Expo, I was particularly thrilled to discover AshaPops – another inspiring small business offering these scrumptious and remarkably healthy treats. This woman-owned company, built upon a heartwarming story, specializes in Ayurveda-inspired, plant-based superfood alternatives to traditional snacking puffs and popcorn. Their popped water lily seeds come in four delicious varieties, all proudly vegan, gluten-free, corn-free, and non-GMO.

I cherished the opportunity to visit the AshaPops booth and connect personally with Asha and her son. Their dedication to crafting wholesome, flavorful snacks is truly commendable, and I eagerly anticipate continuing my support for their delicious and health-conscious mission.

SENECA: The Pure Goodness of Apple Chips

• My family and I are long-standing aficionados of SENECA Apple Chips, cherishing them as a go-to healthy snack. Thus, I was genuinely excited to meet their representatives at the Sweets & Snacks Expo. SENECA Apple Chips proudly sources 100% of its apples from orchards nestled in the fertile, mineral-rich volcanic soils of the Pacific Northwest’s Yakima Valley region in Washington State. Seneca’s commitment to quality is evident in their meticulous process: apples are hand-picked and then carefully selected for their optimal firmness, perfect color, and refreshingly sweet, juicy taste, coupled with a satisfyingly crisp texture.

I was surprised to learn that Seneca offers such a wide array of apple chip varieties, and I truly appreciated the opportunity to delve deeper into their product line and sample new flavors. The Granny Smith chips, with their tart and crisp profile, have now become my absolute new favorite. Have you had the pleasure of trying these delightful apple chips before?

Newfangled Confections: Indianapolis’ Sweet Legacy

• One of the most enriching aspects of the Sweets & Snacks Expo is the opportunity to connect with innovative small local businesses. Indianapolis-based Newfangled Confections perfectly exemplifies this vibrant spirit.

Newfangled Confections beautifully encapsulates candy-maker Carrie Abbott’s contemporary interpretation of beloved grandma’s candy dish favorites. Her creations are deeply “inspired by fond childhood memories that included many trips with her grandfather to Hook’s Drugstore in the late 1970s.” This nostalgic foundation, combined with modern craftsmanship, yields truly unique treats.

The company is proudly based in Indianapolis, where Carrie resides with her husband and two daughters. Since its inception, this handcrafted candy company has embarked on an incredible journey, transitioning from “small batch” production to widespread “big box” retail availability. Their products are now accessible in major retail outlets nationwide. I had the pleasure of trying Newfangled Confections’ Frittles – a delightful combination of peanut fudge and brittle – and was absolutely captivated by their deliciousness! These are truly difficult-to-stop-eating treats, embodying both innovation and nostalgic comfort.

Tastelli: Healthy, Portable Konjac Jelly

• You might recall my previous discussions about konjac jelly snacks. At this year’s Expo, I was thrilled to encounter a new-to-me business that expertly crafts these healthy and delicious treats: Tastelli. Founded by three graduate school friends – Jet, James, and JK – who initially struggled to find healthy and affordable snack options, Tastelli has delivered a compelling solution. Their konjac jellies are made with sugar-free, low-calorie, plant-based, and genuinely better-for-you ingredients. They are not only deliciously refreshing but also incredibly portable, making them an ideal snack for any time and place.

Tastelli Konjac Jelly is designed to be a versatile snack, perfect for a morning boost, a late-night treat, an in-between-meals pick-me-up, or simply whenever a craving strikes. As eloquently stated on their website, “Everyone should indulge in snacks throughout the day, but there is no reason why snacks can’t be good for you.” I wholeheartedly concur with this philosophy, embracing the idea that enjoyment and wellness can, and should, go hand-in-hand.

Latest Innovations from Established Favorites

Beyond new discoveries, the Expo also provided a valuable opportunity to catch up with companies I’ve admired and reviewed in the past, showcasing their latest product offerings:

• TCHO: Single Origin Chocolate Bars

As one of my all-time favorite chocolate brands (previously reviewed here and here), TCHO launched an exciting new line of single-origin chocolate bars, further expanding their commitment to premium, ethically sourced cacao.

• Chocxo: Dark Chocolate Lemon Crème Cups

Chocxo (reviewed here) unveiled their tantalizing Dark Chocolate Lemon Crème Cups. These delightful treats feature rich 72% dark chocolate shells enveloping a creamy, zesty lemon-infused white chocolate center – a perfect balance of bold and bright flavors.

• Endangered Species: Dip’n Joy Dark Chocolate Batons

Indianapolis-based Endangered Species (reviewed here) showcased their innovative Dip’n Joy range. These convenient on-the-go dark chocolate batons and accompanying dips offer a delicious and effortless way to enjoy premium chocolate, catering to busy lifestyles without compromising taste.

• Frooze Balls: New Fruit Varieties

Frooze Balls (one of my favorite discoveries at last year’s Expo) expanded their delicious range with new Apple, Strawberry, and Orange varieties, continuing their commitment to plant-powered, natural energy snacks.

• Crunchy Rollers: Apple Cinnamon & Original Brown Rice

Crunchy Rollers (reviewed here) introduced two appealing new varieties: Apple Cinnamon, offering a comforting spiced flavor, and Original Brown Rice, a wholesome and versatile option.

• BeeFree Warrior Mix: New Mini Bar Flavors

BeeFree Warrior Snack Mix (reviewed here) showcased their delightful new Apple Caramel and Salted Caramel mini bars, expanding their range of gluten-free, wholesome snack options.

A Resounding Success in Indianapolis

My overall experience at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo was nothing short of amazing. I had eagerly anticipated observing how the Expo would thrive in its new host city, Indianapolis, and I can confidently say that the experience far surpassed all my expectations. The vibrant atmosphere facilitated invaluable connections, offered profound learning opportunities, and provided immense enjoyment, leaving me with a collection of truly delicious memories. The seamless transition and enthusiastic reception in Indianapolis bode well for the future of this pivotal industry event. I am already looking forward to the next gathering, and I can’t wait to see you all next year!

*Disclaimer: I was not financially compensated by any of the companies mentioned or shown in this post. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own, based on my personal experience and observations.