Candy In Combat Zones

by KELLI FONTENOT
Published in the May/June 2010 issue of Candy & Snack TODAY

In areas of conflict, candy serves as a welcome boost of energy for hard-charging soldiers, a valuable reminder of home and a bridge-builder to the local population.

In a massive show of support, suppliers, retailers, individuals and volunteer organizations send out millions of care packages and cases of candy to U.S. troops each year. John Hanson, senior vice-president of marketing and communications at the United Service Organizations (USO), reveals it sent almost two million care packages in 2009.

“Chocolate and candy have been a part of the military experience for a long, long time,” he says, noting candy ties in with the overall purpose of care packages, which he says is to let troops know U.S. citizens are thinking about them and hoping for their safe return. He says the USO looks for items that stand up to the conditions in combat zones and provide a lift to soldiers both physically and mentally.

Social Media: Reaching Out To Consumers

by KELLI FONTENOT

Published in the November/December issue of Candy and Snack Today magazine

The Internet connects suppliers and retailers with millions of consumers every day. Discover how networking sites can gauge shoppers’ attitudes, raise brand awareness and reinforce positive associations with the category.

As candy retailers and suppliers explore sites such as Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, they are realizing their impact on brand awareness and company credibility.

Social media is definitely sparking consumers, with more than 105 million in the U.S. using these sites. What’s more, two out of three participants in a recent social media marketing industry report noted an increase in web site traffic, subscribers or opt-in lists after investing just six hours per week.