Christopher Gindlesperger, NCA: “The confectionery industry consists of some of the world’s most iconic brands. Innovation drives our industry from product development to new packaging designs, to technology, to seasonal line extensions. Our member companies are innovative on the business side too with exclusive retail partnerships for seasonal/new products.”
With members in more than 40 states employing approximately 55,000 workers in more than 1,000 facilities across the U.S., National Confectioners Association (NCA) exists to advance, protect and promote the confectionery industry. This month we are together with the Vice President of Public Affairs & Communications Christopher Gindlesperger. Stating that The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization represents the $35 billion U.S. confections industry, Gindlesperger gives us information about the American confectionery industry, the place of technology in the industry and consumption habits in USA. We take details from Christopher Gindlesperger.
Mr. Gindlesperger, firstly could you please give us some information about NATIONAL CONFECTIONERS ASSOCIATION? How many members do you have and what are your activities as an association in the industry?
The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization representing the $35 billion U.S. confections industry which includes $2B in exports. We represent a core group of about 250 member companies, as well as hundreds of buyers and suppliers to the industry. NCA and its members value the fun and enjoyment of chocolate, candy, gum and mints, serving as a transparent and trustworthy source while building and promoting a responsible industry. As the leading trade association for the industry, NCA is proud of the role it plays in the public’s understanding and appreciation of candy’s unique role in a happy, balanced lifestyle.
Could you please give some information about American confectionery industry? What can you say about technology usage level and manufactured product groups?
The confectionery industry consists of some of the world’s most iconic brands. Making candy, chocolate, gum and mints, our industry plays an important role in the U.S. economy. The confectionery industry has a direct economic impact of $35 billion and provides 55,000 jobs in more than 1,000 manufacturing facilities across the country. More than 400,000 jobs in agriculture, retail, transportation and other industries rely in part on the sale of confections for their livelihood. In fact, for every one job that we create in the confectionery industry, another seven are supported in related industries. Our industry is comprised of hundreds of small, family-owned businesses that pass on candy-making expertise from generation to generation.
How is the approach of confectionery producers towards the new technologies? Is there any increase in the technology investments?
Innovation drives our industry from product development to new packaging designs, to technology, to seasonal line extensions. Our member companies are innovative on the business side too with exclusive retail partnerships for seasonal/new products.
Could you please give us some information about confectionery consumption culture of USA? For instance; what are the preferences of your consumers in confectionery consumption?
Consumers understand the unique role that confections can play in a happy, balanced lifestyle and they are choosing to enjoy candy in moderation. Most people in the U.S. enjoy candy about twice a week, averaging less than 50 calories per day and about one teaspoon of added sugar per day from confectionery items. Chocolate, candy, gum and mints account for less than 2 percent of the average American’s overall caloric intake.
Could you give us some information about your works for the confectionery customers?
We are providing consumers with the information, options and support they need to make the choices that are right for them. Our front-of-pack labeling program puts calorie information right at consumers’ fingertips. And we make a wide variety of options - available in packages ranging from fun size to share size - that can bring a little sweetness to any occasion.
As especially an association, do you have any projects for your industry that are being realized right now or will be realized in the coming years?
We are committed to advertising our products responsibly. Most of the candy on store shelves today is made by companies that do not advertise on children’s programming. Leading candy companies have joined the Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative (CFBAI), including The Hershey Company, Mars Chocolate North America, Nestlé USA, Mondelēz International, Inc., Ferrero USA, Inc., and American Licorice Company. And six companies have joined the Children’s Confectionery Advertising Initiative (CCAI): Ferrara Candy Company; Ghirardelli Chocolate Company; Jelly Belly Candy Company; Just Born Quality Confections; The Promotion in Motion Companies, Inc.; and R.M. Palmer Company. The commitment of these companies to CFBAI and CCAI solidifies their commitment to being responsible advertisers.