Path to Purchase: The In-Store Experience
Keith Albright, Cargill Cocoa & Chocolate

Join us for Part 2 of our Path to Purchase series, focused on what happens once customers arrive at your shop—no prior participation required. From the moment they step out of their car to the time they make a purchase, we’ll explore the in-store cues, experiences and touchpoints that influence what they buy and how much they spend. You’ll gain practical, actionable ideas to enhance the shopping experience, drive sales and build lasting customer loyalty.

Keith Albright is the Consumer Insights Lead for Cargill’s North America Bakery & Confection team, with 25 years of experience in consumer insights and analytics. His background spans the food and beverage industry, where he focuses on identifying consumer needs and uncovering opportunities for growth.

Kettle Talk
RCI Member Exclusive
Tuesday, June 9  |  9:00 AM

Unlock the secrets to making exceptional confections during this open forum discussion. Come with your questions and expect to cover topics ranging from production, marketing and merchandising to business operations and more. Participants may submit questions at the registration desk in advance or pose questions directly to the group during the session. Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Candy Clinic
RCI Member Exclusive
Tuesday, June 9  │  10:00 AM

NEW for 2026! Candy Clinic setup is Monday, June 8 from 4:30–5:30 PM at The Westin.

Candy Makers: Bring your best ideas, from product and packaging innovations to new holiday creations! Compete for the most votes from your peers and take home an award!

This interactive session is a long-standing RCI favorite where members present their most successful ideas in short presentations. It's a great opportunity to see what's working for others across the industry and gather fresh inspiration for your business. Attendees vote for their favorite entries, with winners announced at the Awards Banquet on Wednesday evening. Additional honors include Best First-Time Entrant and the President's Choice Award. Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

To participate, email events@retailconfectioners.org. Companies may enter up to two categories.

Categories include:

• Best Summer Idea
• Best Fall Idea
• Best Christmas Idea
• Best Valentine's Day Idea
• Best Easter Idea
• Best Marketing/Merchandising Idea
• Best Packaging Idea
• Best New Piece
• Best Innovation

Roundtable Discussions: Conversations for Candy Businesses
Wednesday, June 10 │ TBA

Back by popular demand!

You choose the topics that best fit your unique needs and interests. During this education session, participants will have the opportunity to join different small groups to discuss specific topics relevant to confectionery business.