Why You Can't Miss the RCI Candy Convention: Education Highlights

If you’re a candy maker, chocolatier or own a retail candy shop, this event is for you! RCI’s Annual Convention & Industry Expo is coming up June 16–19 at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington, Kentucky—just across the river from Cincinnati.

Education Highlights
RCI’s education is designed specifically for the retail confectioner. Keep reading for this year's education lineup scheduled for June 17 and 18:

• The Well Oiled Machine – Learn how to build systems and processes that make your retail business run smoothly. Retail expert Kathy Cruz will share expert tips to improve time management, delegate tasks and boost efficiency—even if your business lacks structure today.
• Label Smarter: Candy Labeling 101 – Navigate labeling laws and regulations, ingredient listings and nutritional requirements in a clear, practical way. Learn who is required to label products, how to create eye-catching designs and tips for efficient production.
• Exploring Alternative Sugars & Vegan Ingredients – Reach new audiences by exploring innovative ingredients and taste-tasting a variety of sugars and compare vegan and traditional ganache.
• Roundtable Discussions – Choose topics that matter most to your business and join small-group conversations to learn from peers.

Exclusive Member Events
Not a member? No problem! Click here to apply for membership if you're a professional retail candy maker, chocolatier or confectionery supplier looking to grow your sweet business.

• Candy Clinic – Members show off their best ideas for new products, packaging and promotions. You’ll leave with tons of inspiration!
• Kettle Talk – An open discussion where you can ask questions and share advice on everything from production to marketing.

More Reasons to Attend

• 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!

Ready to Join Us? 

Don’t miss this chance to learn, connect and be inspired alongside fellow candy professionals. 
👉 Register now for RCI’s 2025 Annual Convention & Industry Expo!

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Fresh-Squeezed Ideas: 4 Citrus Confections to Brighten Your Candy Case

Citrus flavors like lemon, orange and lime are perfect for spring and summer. They’re fresh, vibrant and always popular this time of year. If you’re looking to add some zing to your candy case, try these citrus-inspired ideas.

Photo credit: Olympian Candies

Lemon Twist Bark
Layer dark chocolate with lemon-flavored white chocolate. Sprinkle crushed lemon candies and a pinch of lemon sea salt. Finish with a dark chocolate drizzle for a sweet, salty and sour treat.

Photo credit: Abdallah

Orange Creams
Classic orange creams feature a soft orange-flavored center covered in white chocolate, topped with an orange drizzle. For a fun twist, take a cue from RCI member Abdallah Candies and display them in ice cream cones—perfect for summer merchandising and social media posts.

Photo credit: Fazio’s Chocolate

Key Lime Pie Truffles
RCI member Fazio’s Chocolate offers a bright key lime pie truffle filled with key lime ganache, covered in white chocolate and finished with graham cracker crumbs. Consider adding this flavor to your summer collection.

Lemon Blueberry Caramel
Blend lemon oil and dried blueberries into your caramel for a bold, fruity combination. Walker’s Chocolates created this award-winning piece, and citrus-berry pairings continue to be a customer favorite.

Photo credit: Water’s Edge Chocolates

Bonus Idea: Lemon Cut-Outs
RCI member Water’s Edge Chocolates created cheerful lemon-shaped cut-outs. Use a cookie cutter to shape crispy rice treats, lemon fudge or even brownies, then dip in yellow chocolate for a fun, summery treat.

New flavors spark curiosity and keep customers coming back. Promote your citrus creations on social media and encourage fans to spread the word. Limited-time flavors can boost excitement and sales!

Crave more? Click here to subscribe and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's blog is just one of the many resources we offer to help candy makers refine their craft and build upon their business and marketing practices. Follow us on Facebook for even more sweet inspiration.

Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.