If you’re a candy maker,
chocolatier, or confectionery retailer, mark your calendar—because the sweetest
event of the year is here! RCI has officially opened registration for the 2025 Annual
Convention & Industry Expo, happening June 16-19 at the Northern
Kentucky Convention Center in Covington, Kentucky—just minutes from
Cincinnati!
Why Attend?
This year’s theme, “Inspiring
Generations of Candy Makers,” celebrates the rich experiences and ideas
each generation brings to the industry. Whether you’re part of a
multi-generational business or just starting out, this convention is designed
to help you grow and innovate. Here’s what you can expect:
- Engaging Educational Sessions
– Learn from practical education designed uniquely for the retail confectioner.
Gain valuable insights on candy labeling requirements, alternative sugars,
vegan ingredients and more. Roundtable discussions allow you to choose topics
that best fit your unique needs and interests. Learn more.
- Two-Day Industry Expo –
Connect with the industry’s top suppliers, discover the latest ingredients,
equipment, and packaging solutions and explore innovations that could elevate
your products. Click
here to view the map of exhibitors.
- Networking Opportunities – Connect with other candy makers,
retailers, and suppliers in the industry. Build relationships, exchange ideas
and find new opportunities for collaboration.
- Behind-the-Scenes Tours – Get an insider look at some of the most iconic confectionery businesses in the Cincinnati area!
Confectionery Tour Highlights
One of the most anticipated features of the
convention is the behind-the-scenes tours hosted by local confectionery
businesses. Here’s a sneak peek at this year’s tour stops:
- Aglamesis Bros., Inc.
(Cincinnati, OH) – Established in 1908, this fourth-generation family
business will transport you back in time. Tour their new chocolate production
facility and see their classic ice cream and Italian ice-making process. Learn more.
- Graeter’s, Inc. (Cincinnati, OH)
– Famous for their small-batch French Pot ice cream, Graeter’s has been
family-run for five generations. Get an inside look at their unique production
process and watch confections like chocolate-enrobed butter cookies, peanut
brittle and chocolate barks come to life. Learn more.
- Schneider’s Sweet Shop (Bellevue, KY) – Founded in 1939, this beloved candy shop is operated by second, third and fourth generations of family. Best known for their Opera creams, Schneider’s continues to use the same recipes and equipment from the early 1900s. Learn more.
Register Today & Save!
Choose from a variety of ticket
options to customize your experience:
- Expo Ticket: Just $10 in advance ($25 onsite) for access to the two-day Industry Expo.
- 1-Day Education Ticket: Industry professionals attending their first RCI event can save $100 by using promo code “RCIFIRST” when registering.
- Convention Pass: Get the best value with access to all events Monday through Thursday.
Don’t miss out—register by April
25 for the best rates! Visit retailconfectioners.org/annual
to secure your spot today! For more details, call 417-883-2775. Join
us for an unforgettable experience that will inspire, educate and help you
grow your candy business!
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