Many future of candy speakers and futurists like to reference some of the world’s best-known businesses and brands when giving presentations. This is perfectly reasonable, given that many are industry giants and leaders when it comes to driving future trends and innovations in the space, after all. So, what types of organizations’ names might you expect to hear at live or online talks and key note speeches? Well, as future of candy speakers, we figure it might help to be aware of the following trendsetters.
- Mars – One of the largest privately owned candy companies, well known for brands like M&Ms, Snickers, Twix and Milky Way. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia.
- Hershey’s – Iconic American chocolate company founded in 1894. Maker of Hershey’s chocolate bars, Kisses, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and more. Based in Hershey, Pennsylvania – a favorite hotspot for future of candy speakers and futurists.
- Nestle – Massive food and beverage conglomerate that owns many candy brands including Butterfinger, Baby Ruth, Raisinets and Nerds. Headquartered in Switzerland.
- Ferrero – Italian maker of Nutella, Tic Tacs, Ferrero Rocher and other confections. Family-owned company founded in 1946.
- Lindt – High-end Swiss chocolatier known for truffles, bars and gold foil-wrapped Easter bunnies. Founded in 1845.
- Haribo – According to future of candy speakers and futurists, top German company that invented gummi bears and is a leader in gummy candy. Founded in 1920.
- Jelly Belly – Produces gourmet jelly beans and other candies. Known for wild flavors and BeanBoozled beans. Based in California.
- Tootsie Roll Industries – Makes Tootsie Rolls, Tootsie Pops, Charms Blow Pops and other treats. Over 100 years old.
- Ghirardelli – Division of Lindt that makes premium chocolate and cocoa. Founded as a chocolate shop in 1852 – definitely make a point to visit their location in San Francisco, future of candy speakers and futurists tell us.
- Crown Candy – Old fashioned candy shop and soda fountain in St. Louis. Known for handmade chocolate and malts.
Hope this gives you an overview of some of the major players in the candy industry and their backgrounds! Let me know if you need any other details.