Americans are enthusiastic about the winter holiday season and the important role chocolate and candy play in their traditions and celebrations, according to data released by the National Confectioners Association (NCA) and IRI.
Total seasonal confectionery sales are up by 20% over last year, the NCA said in a statement, with winter holiday chocolate sales up by more than 16% and winter holiday non-chocolate sales seeing an increase of more than 34% from 2020.
Iconic holiday retail sets are hot for the 2021 season, with retailers reinvesting in seasonal chocolate and candy. Total holiday candy offerings are up by more than 9% on average. The seasonal increase in in-store products is driven by non-chocolate products – up by nearly 23% – with holiday chocolate products up by more than 3%.
The data is source from the NCA/IRI multi outlet report for the five weeks ending Dec. 5.
“A holiday season without seasonal chocolate and candy just wouldn’t be the same,” said NCA President and CEO John Downs in a statement earlier this month. “And I’m proud that our industry plays such a big part in the creative ways that families across the country celebrate special moments and create heartwarming memories during the winter holidays.”
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the U.S. confectionery industry, which generates more than $37 billion in retail sales each year. Making chocolate, candy, gum and mints, the industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states.