The National Confectioners Association (NCA) has identified four top trends that will be on display at the 2021 Sweets & Snacks Expo, set for June 23-25 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

“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,” said John Downs, NCA president and CEO. “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 expected at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo:

• Smaller pack sizes: Companies continue to develop smaller pack sizes containing 200 calories or less. This trend allows 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. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a tropical treat.
• 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, shoppers can’t go wrong when mixing up their favorite combinations.   
• Spice it up: The hottest new spicy snacks featuring flavors like chili, sriracha, jalapeño and habanero will be on full display. 

These trends will also be visible in the show’s Destination Retail, which showcases ideas for driving excitement around the four big confectionery sales seasons – Valentine’s Day, Easter, Halloween, and the Winter Holidays – and National Candy Month as these incremental sales opportunities continue to grow. National Candy Month, which occurs each June, presents the opportunity to bridge the gap between the major holidays in the spring and fall for retailers across the country.