WASHINGTON – With the winter holidays in full swing, the National Confectioners Association (NCA) is sharing four fun facts about this prime candy shopping season.
"The winter holidays are a special time in the candy industry," said NCA President and CEO John Downs. "[T]here are dozens of ways Americans celebrate with confectionery this time of year. And behind those special treats are 55,000 confectionery employees in communities across the country working hard to make the treats that Americans will enjoy as part of a happy, balanced lifestyle."
NCA cited four fun facts about how Americans enjoy holiday confections:
1. Teach Children About Balance
Throughout the year, Americans eat candy two or three times per week, averaging about 40 calories per day. A full 90% of parents use the holidays to prioritize setting guidelines and talking to their children about balance. While most report having these conversations year-round, many use the holiday as a conversation starter.
2. Good Things Come with More Information, Options and Support
Earlier this year, global chocolate and candy companies announced a five-year commitment with the Partnership for a Healthier America to provide consumers with more information, options and support as they enjoy their favorite treats. The companies participating include Mars Wrigley Confectionery, Nestlé USA, Ferrero, Lindt, Ghirardelli, Russell Stover and Ferrara Candy Company.
3. Americans Share Holiday Treats
More than 3/4 of Americans say they will likely include chocolate and candy in stockings or give confections as gifts to friends and family this holiday season. Foil-wrapped chocolates (36%) and candy canes (22%) top the list of the best candy for stocking stuffers, while peppermints, gumdrop-adorned ginger bread houses and chocolate coins all play a role in important holiday traditions.
4. Americans will spend $1.9B on Winter Holiday Treats
NCA estimates that Americans will spend $1.93 billion on sweet treats. Beyond the industry's 55,000 jobs, this economic boost helps an additional 410,000 Americans employed in candy-supported industries like retail, transportation and agriculture.