The Sweets & Snacks Expo brought a surge of excitement to Indianapolis, attracting over 14,500 attendees and more than 1,000 exhibitors to the Indiana Convention Center. Hosted by the National Confectioners Association (NCA), the event highlighted the latest trends and innovations in the confectionery and snack industries, all while delivering an estimated $12 million economic impact to Central Indiana.
The Expo spanned an impressive 250,000 square feet of exhibit space, where manufacturers, retailers, brokers and suppliers converged to share ideas and unveil cutting-edge products. With 300 exhibitors participating for the first time and attendees representing 85 countries, the event solidified its reputation as the premier showcase for candy and snack innovations.
“When we selected Indianapolis to become one of the host cities for Sweets & Snacks Expo, we knew it would be a success, but we could not have predicted just how far our expectations would be exceeded,” said John Downs, president and CEO of the NCA.
Indianapolis proved to be a dynamic host city, seamlessly blending its reputation for hospitality with offsite experiences that immersed attendees in the city’s unique culture. A lively happy hour at Gainbridge Fieldhouse provided opportunities for networking and socializing, while a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway during Indy 500 practice offered attendees a quintessential Hoosier experience.
Beyond showcasing the latest in candy and snack trends, the Expo also emphasized the importance of promoting diversity within the industry. Minority, women and veteran-owned businesses were given a prominent platform to display their products and connect with key players in the confectionery and snack sectors.
Belle’s Gourmet Popcorn, a Black- and woman-owned business, took home the Best in Show award for their Matcha Latte Popcorn. The product, praised for its bold flavor and innovative appeal, was a highlight of the event’s Most Innovative New Product Awards. These awards, which span 12 categories, celebrate creativity and originality, offering a glimpse into the future of consumer trends.
“Indy is no stranger to large, buzzworthy events, but Sweets & Snacks Expo is in a category of its own,” said Leonard Hoops, president and CEO of Visit Indy. “We’re thrilled not only by the economic impact but also by the joy and innovation this event brings to our city.”
For attendees, the Expo offered more than just a trade show experience. Educational sessions led by industry experts provided valuable insights into market trends, consumer behavior, and emerging challenges in the snack and confectionery industries. Attendees also appreciated the opportunity to build lasting relationships with industry peers.
“This event is amazing. I found some incredible new products to stock in our stores … I also connected with people and folks who look like me, selling products I’d buy. That’s really important to me,” said Darnell Katy, a buyer from Texas attending the Expo for the first time.
The Expo’s commitment to giving back was another standout feature. In partnership with organizations like the USO and Give Kids the World Village, the event donated products to service members and children in need across the country.
As the Expo wrapped up its 2025 event in Indianapolis, plans for the future were already underway. The show will move to Las Vegas in 2026 before returning to Indianapolis in 2027 and 2028.
Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
Hanna Rauworth is the Health & Environmental Reporter for the Indianapolis Recorder Newspaper, where she covers topics at the intersection of public health, environmental issues, and community impact. With a commitment to storytelling that informs and empowers, she strives to highlight the challenges and solutions shaping the well-being of Indianapolis residents.
