The National Confectioners Association (NCA) recently released findings of a new survey of consumer preferences on summertime candy and treats. Chocolate and candy enhance summertime traditions and experiences, like going to the beach, embarking on a road trip, going camping, or enjoying an outdoor concert, says NCA. 

We connected with Carly Schildhaus, senior manager of public affairs, NCA, to learn more.

Liz Parker Kuhn: June is National Candy Month. Every U.S. confectionery manufacturing job supports 11 other American jobs in related industries—can you elaborate on this?

Carly Schildhaus: National Candy Month is a time to celebrate the people and communities who produce Americans’ favorite treats and make summer traditions even sweeter. The confectionery industry is a true American success story, generating $54 billion in annual sales in 2024. But the impact goes beyond just dollars: the industry employs nearly 58,000 people across the U.S., with almost 700,000 jobs supported in related industries, meaning one U.S. confectionery job supports 11 others in related industries.

National Candy Month is also a proven success for retailers looking to close the confectionery sales gap between Easter and Halloween. Since 2020, National Candy Month has grown from a one-month test in 570 stores to a summer-long promotion in more than 60,000 retail locations.

LPK: How can chocolate and candy enhance summertime traditions and experiences?

CS: Like summertime itself, chocolate and candy are savored as special treats. Eagerly-anticipated rituals—like beach trips, backyard barbecues, and bonfires—are made more memorable with the addition of chocolate and candy. For example, 75% of campers will pack chocolate and candy for their outdoor adventures, including evenings around the campfire roasting s’mores. The summer brings with it the opportunity for consumers to break out of their usual routines, and the addition of chocolate and candy make these moments even sweeter.

LPK: According to NCA, 86% of people going on a summer road trip will bring chocolate and candy—are there any that consumers purchase more than others, for this occasion? What about candy that people bring camping, as 75% of campers in the U.S. will treat themselves to chocolate/candy?

CS: Gummy candy, chocolate, hard candy, and taffy ranks as consumers’ favorite summer treats, offering a fun and exciting mix of flavors and textures that suit summer’s fun-filled vibe. When asked about their taffy preference, 66% of Americans said they’d opt for classic flavors like vanilla or chocolate, but 34% would go for fresh takes with interesting combinations or unusual flavors.

LPK: Anything more to add?

CS: Despite the laid-back pace of summer, people in the U.S. are still clear that chocolate and candy are treats, not center-of-the-plate foods. They enjoy chocolate and candy 2-3 times per week, averaging just 40 calories and about one teaspoon of added sugar per day.

Manufacturers, in turn, are meeting consumers where they want to be met, with more variety in pack sizes and portion options than ever before, helping them to manage their intake of calories and added sugar. During the summer and throughout the rest of the year, candy is a small part of our diet, but a big part of our lives.

Related: Trendspotting at the 2025 Sweets & Snacks Expo