Dive Brief:
- Candy-making has a sweet effect on the U.S. economy with a 1:7 multiplier for job creation, according to economic impact data recently presented by the National Confectioners Association (NCA).
- In other words, for every one of 55,000 U.S. candy industry jobs, another seven are created in related industries, such as agriculture, retail, and transportation.
- "The candy industry is comprised of hundreds of small and medium-size, family-owned businesses as well as the multi-national companies with global brands that operate more than 1,000 manufacturing facilities in all 50 states," according to a news release.
Dive Insight:
"This is an industry positioned for growth and opportunity, and we are creating American products with American workers in cities and towns throughout America," said John H. Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association in a statement. "Our products represent honest, affordable, great tasting, fun, transparent treats. Our 1:7 multiplier effect is a huge benefit to our economy – and that is the power of sweet."
Consumers for the most part seem to eat candy in moderation, about twice a week, according to the NCA. Despite widespread efforts to eat healthier foods, consumers still enjoy indulging themselves with sweet treats, as executives from Hostess and Mars, Inc. have confirmed. As a result, the candy industry has been able to weather the issues seen by much of the rest of the processed foods industry.
Snacking is on the rise as well, and candy has benefited from on-the-go consumers' desire for fast and convenient food options. The industry has further adapted by developing innovations like re-sealable stand-up pouches, smaller bite-size portions, and shareable packaging to encourage an easier eating experience.
Some in the candy industry have come out in support of further transparency, such as Mars' backing of legislation for a label that would require companies to include the amount of added sugar contained in their products on the Nutrition Facts label. Earlier this year, Hershey said it would retool some of its candies with simpler, more natural ingredients and offer more transparency. Nestle also vowed to remove artificial colors and flavors from its chocolate by the end of the year.