NCA reveals Ruby Award for Supplier Innovation winner
Billie-Ann Plastics Packaging Corp. took home this year's honors for its clear cylinder.
The National Confectioners Association (NCA) announced Billie-Ann Plastics Packaging Corp. as the winner of the 2026 Ruby Award for Supplier Innovation for its RPET Clear Cylinder with Optional Snap In/Snap On Top and Printing. The award will be presented during the Sweets & Snacks Expo Awards Ceremony on Monday, May 18 in Las Vegas.
"The confectionery industry continues to evolve through investments in people, innovation, and new technologies that strengthen manufacturing and support long-term growth,” says John Downs, president and CEO of the National Confectioners Association. “The Ruby Award recognizes supplier partners that are delivering creative solutions to help confectionery companies operate more efficiently, innovate responsibly, and meet changing consumer expectations.”
Created in 2018 to celebrate breakthrough innovations from the supplier community that advance the confectionery industry, the Ruby Award for Supplier Innovation recognizes a National Confectioners Association supplier member company that has developed an innovation in the past year that improves the ability of confectioners to manufacture, distribute, market, and/or sell chocolate and candy.
The winning innovation from Billie-Ann Plastics is a recyclable confectionery packaging solution made with a minimum of 25% post-consumer recycled (PCR) PET content, offering confectionery companies a sustainable alternative to traditional virgin plastic cylinders without sacrificing premium shelf appeal or product visibility.
Billie-Ann Plastics developed the packaging solution in response to growing demand for more sustainable and reusable packaging options that could seamlessly integrate into existing manufacturing operations. The cylinders require no tooling changes, new equipment, or filling-line modifications, making adoption accessible for confectionery businesses of all sizes.
NCA also recognized Cargill as a finalist for NextCoa, a portfolio of cocoa-free confectionery alternatives developed in partnership with Voyage Foods. Made with upcycled grape seeds, NextCoa is designed to deliver a chocolate-like sensory experience while helping manufacturers address cocoa supply challenges, cost volatility, and sustainability goals.
Related: Cargill unlocks cocoa-free alternative for producers
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