The snack and candy industry is gearing up for its biggest celebration of innovation, flavour, and networking at the Sweets & Snacks Expo 2025, set to take place at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis from May 13–15, 2025 (with a pre-show event on May 12). Hosted by the National Confectioners Association (NCA), this is North America's largest trade show dedicated to sweets and snacks.
This event is where global snack and candy leaders, food scientists, trend forecasters, and retail buyers come together to explore the future of the industry. It’s not just an expo—it’s where deals are made, trends are born, and brands connect with suppliers, distributors, and snack lovers.
What Is the Sweets & Snacks Expo?
The Sweets & Snacks Expo is an annual event that spotlights the latest developments in the snack and confectionery industries. Featuring over 1,000 exhibitors and more than 16,000 attendees, this massive expo spans several show floors showcasing:
- Chocolate, candy, and confectionery brands
- Chips, crackers, cookies, and functional snacks
- International and exotic treats
- New product launches
- Sustainable packaging solutions
- Retail technology and consumer insight tools
From multinational conglomerates to indie startups, this event unites all ends of the snack spectrum.
Why Indianapolis?
In recent years, the Sweets & Snacks Expo has rotated locations between major hubs. After a successful run in Chicago, and ahead of its 2026 move to Las Vegas, Indianapolis was chosen for its central location, modern convention space, and hospitality infrastructure. The Indiana Convention Center is also known for its efficiency and capacity to host large-scale industry gatherings.
What’s New for 2025?
Each year brings fresh ideas, and 2025 is shaping up to be the most dynamic edition yet:
- Flavour Discovery Pavilion: Spotlight on unique flavor profiles from around the world—think yuzu popcorn, black garlic gummies, and global spice blends.
- Startup Zone: Emerging brands get to showcase their disruptive takes on classic snacks.
- Retailer Education Sessions: Learn what consumers want in 2025 and beyond. Topics include supply chain sustainability, functional ingredient trends, and plant-based alternatives.
- Innovation Avenue: A corridor dedicated to new-to-market launches where attendees can vote for the most exciting product reveal.
A Must for International Snack Sellers Like InOutSnackz
As a Canadian brand that focuses on exotic, imported snacks, InOutSnackz keeps a close eye on events like the Sweets & Snacks Expo. It’s a goldmine for spotting trends that will soon hit the Canadian market. Last year’s event introduced new import favourites that we now carry—like Taiwanese bubble teas, Japanese corn snacks, and Brazilian chocolates.
Being ahead of the trend is crucial, especially with the growing demand for rare snacks. The Expo gives us the tools and insider access to bring those trends straight to our customers.
Events to Watch For:
- Most Innovative New Product Awards Ceremony – Discover the future bestsellers.
- Supplier Showcases – Meet and greet with manufacturers offering exclusive distribution deals.
- Retailer Networking Lounges – Ideal for building connections and partnerships.
- Happy Hour and Social Mixers – Perfect for informal conversations and collaboration.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the snack industry—or even just a hardcore candy and chip fan—the Sweets & Snacks Expo 2025 is your Disneyland. Whether you're seeking the next big hit or want to understand how industry leaders like Ferrero, Mondelez, and Mars are innovating, this expo has something for everyone.
Stay tuned to InOutSnackz as we follow updates from the expo. We’ll be covering new releases, must-try flavours, and maybe even bringing a few exclusives to our Canadian customers soon after the show.
Follow us for live updates and post-expo insights!
