Goodbyes are never easy, but this one feels especially sour. I’m sad to say this is my final column for Candy Industry. 

Working on Candy Industry has been one of the most incredible experiences of my life. This job took me on my first international trip, allowing me to go to Colombia 10 years ago. After that, it was a whirlwind: Brazil, Ecuador, France, Ghana, Germany, Austria, Canada and too many states to count. 

I’ve toured candy factories, attended Willy Wonka-style candy conferences and even visited cocoa fields in South America and Africa. 

All of that would have been worthless if it wasn’t for the amazing people I’ve met along the way. 

First, being hired by former editor Bernie Pacyniak, and then spending the last four years working side-by-side with Alyse Thompson. They were truly the greatest coworkers I have ever had. Both of them are inspiring, motivational, funny and just genuinely warm people with good hearts. They were truly the best part of my job with Candy Industry. Better, even, than the trips to Europe.

Of course, so many in the industry have left their mark on my soul as well, especially everyone I met as part of the Kettle Committee and the related event. 

To be honest, writing about candy and chocolates for money always felt just a bit too good to be true, and looking back, it really was like a sweet dream. But as the old Semisonic song says, “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” 

The confectionery industry truly is a magical place, and I’d be honored to stay in touch. Feel free to reach out to me on my personal email, cs.lindell@gmail.com. Thanks for all the memories. It’s been sweet.