DEC/JAN 2025


EDITORIAL Editor


Kiran Grewal kgrewal@kennedys.co.uk


Features Editor Suzanne Callander


scallander@kennedys.co.uk


Production & Design Marc Miller


ADVERTISING


Business Development Manager Gary Smythson


gsmythson@kennedys.co.uk 01622 699183


Subscriptions Manager Nic Wood


nic.wood@c-cms.com Events


Gary Smythson


gsmythson@kennedys.co.uk 01622 699183


ACCOUNTS accounts@datateam.co.uk EDITOR’s LETTER


As the pages of this magazine mark the start of 2025, I can’t help but marvel at how the confectionery industry continues to surprise, delight, and innovate. Whether it’s AI quietly reshaping production lines or next-gen machinery streamlining sustainable practices, the future of sweets is more connected—and more exciting—than ever.


Speaking of connections, I stumbled upon a charming one


myself recently in a charity shop: a Mackintosh Quality Street tin. Its vivid illustrations and retro charm transported me to an era when packaging was as much about storytelling as it was about storage. Finding treasures like this reminds me how confectionery, at its core, is about nostalgia and joy. And while today’s smart and connected packaging, featuring AI- driven designs and augmented reality experiences, might seem a world away from those tin-can origins, the goal remains the same: to create memories.


In this issue, we look ahead to what’s taking focus in


confectionery for 2025, with a lineup of features that highlight the ingenuity of the industry. From plant-based and upcycled ingredients (p.10) driving double-digit growth to AI’s transformative role in production (p.42), our stories reflect an industry that’s as committed to sustainability as it is to delivering indulgent experiences. The shift toward cleaner, greener products isn’t just a trend, it’s actually redefining how confectionery is made, marketed, and enjoyed.


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Kennedy’s Confection magazine is available by subscription at the following rate for 10 issues: UK £99 • Europe £149


Rest of World £149 • Online £75 All enquiries to nic.wood@c-cms.com


Published by:


Kennedy’s Publications, 15A London Road Maidstone, Kent ME16 8LY Tel +44 (0) 1622 687031


www.kennedysconfection.co.uk


Kennedy’s Confection ISSN 1474-3841


Set up in 1890, Kennedy’s Confection is the longest– established magazine in the trade and is distributed exclusively worldwide to manufacturers of chocolate, sugar confectionery and bakery products.


Kennedy’s Publications


Part of the Datateam Media Group Media Director Paul Ryder


Our feature on smart and connected packaging (p.48) explored all the exciting ways


brands are creating deeper connections with consumers. From AR-powered Snickers campaigns that bring American football to life to bespoke Nutella labels crafted using AI-driven personalisation, packaging is no longer just functional, it’s becoming an interactive, creative medium.


We also preview the must-attend events of the season, including Chocoa 2025 (p.8)


and ISM/ProSweets, where the world’s finest sweets and snacks take centre stage. This year’s ISM/ProSweets promises to be particularly exciting, with cutting-edge technology, packaging solutions, and trend-setting products all under one roof. At the time of writing we are still approaching this event, and I can’t help but feel the buzz of anticipation. We can’t wait to see what this year’s edition will bring! Find the full preview on page 16.


So, whether you’re looking for the latest industry insights or a bit of sweet inspiration,


this issue has you covered. Here’s to a new year filled with bold ideas, innovation, and, of course, plenty of chocolate and confectionery.


Registered in England No. 1771113. Entire contents © 2024 Kennedy’s Publications, part of the Datateam Media Group. Material may not be reproduced in any form without the publisher’s written approval. For details on reprints and permissions, contact the director of Kennedy’s


KennedysConfection.com Kiran


Kiran Grewal, Editor kgrewal@kennedys.co.uk


Kennedy’s Confection December/January 2024/25 3


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