If you represent a business, distributor, or investor and are stepping into the Indiana Convention Center this week, you'll be hit with bright colors and candy cravings. The 2024 Sweets & Snacks Expo, a premier event for the confectionery and snack industry in the US, opened downtown yesterday with record-breaking numbers.

“For more than 25 years, Sweets & Snacks Expo has served as a launchpad for new products across the candy and snack categories and that innovation is on full display this week in Indianapolis,” President and CEO of the National Confectioners Association John Downs said.

The expo was temporarily relocated from Chicago to Indianapolis in response to the pandemic in 2021 and Hoosier hospitality was on full display. Because of that, many involved in the show recognized Indy as a perfect fit and jumped at the opportunity to return.

The numbers

The Sweets & Snacks Expo will feature 1,000 exhibitors across more than 250,000 sqft of show floor. It's expected to draw 16,000 attendees to the Indiana Convention Center and generate $12 million in economic impact for the city and the state.

Rachel Klein stands at her booth for Revival which is featured in the Indiana Pavilion of the show floor. | Photo by INDYtoday team

Local love

The Sweets & Snacks Expo is bringing people and brands from all over the country and the world to Indianapolis, but City Editor Nicole wanted to hear from one that originated right here in Indy — Revival Food.

Founder Rachel Klein is a mother of three who lives right here in Indianapolis. It all started back in 2014 when she was looking to revive a healthier lifestyle, but found it challenging to find an almond butter that was both healthy and tasty. She came up with her own recipe and had a regular spot at the Broad Ripple Farmers Market for years. Since then, Revival has become a retail partner with Walmart, and has landed on grocery shelves in 48 states.

"It's really special to be here because it is in our hometown [...] so being here is a huge opportunity for me. I know that there are about 16,000 people attending, so I see that as 16,000 opportunities," Klein said.

The expo is here through Thursday, May 16 — but unfortunately you can't satisfy your sweet tooth here, as it's not open to the public. Learn more about attendee qualifications.