Showing posts with label Annual Convention. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Annual Convention. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Save with Great Deals from Suppliers at RCI's Expo

Professional candy makers, chocolatiers and confectionery retailers—don’t miss your chance to save big at Retail Confectioners International’s (RCI) Industry Expo, taking place June 17–18, 2025 at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington, Kentucky.

This two-day event will bring top suppliers from across the country together under one roof, offering exclusive show specials on packaging, ingredients, equipment, chocolate and finished confections—but only for those who attend in person.

💲 Get Your Expo Ticket for Just $5

Save with promo code SweetDeal to get a 2-Day Expo Ticket for only $5 when registering online by June 13. (Tickets are $25 at the door. RCI members attend for free.)

Admission is limited to confectionery professionals—industry credentials will be required for entry.

👉 Click here toregister and view the floor plan


Why You Should Attend the RCI Candy Convention

  • Unlock exclusive show specials by placing orders at the event
  • Connect with trusted suppliers and discover new products
  • Get inspired with packaging ideas, ingredients, finished goods and much more!
  • Every order placed enters you into a drawing for sweet prizes

Whether you’re shopping for your next big upgrade or simply looking to stock up, the RCI Candy Convention is your opportunity to save money and build valuable relationships with suppliers.


RCI has been supporting the retail confectionery industry since 1917, and the RCI Candy Convention is a must-attend event for professionals looking to stay competitive.

Register now and join us June 16–19, 2025, in Covington, Kentucky. The expo is open June 17–18—don’t miss out on sweet savings and smart connections!

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.

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

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.

Wednesday, March 19, 2025

Why You Can't Miss the RCI Candy Convention!

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!

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.

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

5 Smart Purchasing Habits for Candy Businesses

Purchasing for a business is a daily challenge, especially when balancing quality and cost. Adopting smart purchasing habits can help businesses manage expenses while maintaining or improving product quality. Here are five key strategies to consider.

1. Staggered Deliveries
Scheduling deliveries strategically can help maintain a steady workflow. Candy makers need to ensure they receive raw materials for production and packaging materials for finished goods while keeping storage space manageable. By staggering deliveries, companies can avoid overcrowding their facilities and optimize production. This approach also allows for better planning when hiring seasonal employees, as production schedules can be aligned with delivery dates.

2. Keeping Records
Maintaining detailed purchasing and sales records is essential for future planning. Businesses that track inventory levels, sales patterns, and seasonal demand can make more informed decisions for the following year. Reviewing past records helps determine whether the timing of purchases was effective and if inventory levels were adequate. By analyzing this data, companies can adjust their purchasing strategies to avoid shortages or excess stock.

3. Asking the Right Questions
Before making large purchases, especially for equipment, candy businesses should carefully evaluate their needs. Key questions to consider include:

  • Is this purchase necessary?
  • Will it improve efficiency?
  • Is there sufficient space for it?
  • Are electrical or plumbing modifications required?

By addressing these questions in advance, your business can avoid costly mistakes, such as purchasing equipment that does not fit in your facility or requires expensive modifications.

4. Tracking Weather Trends
Weather can significantly impact customer buying habits. Businesses that track weather patterns year over year can better predict demand. For example, a snowstorm before Valentine’s Day or an unusually warm Easter can influence sales. By understanding these patterns, businesses can adjust inventory and marketing strategies to maximize sales opportunities.

5. Cooperative Purchasing
Collaborating with other candy businesses can lead to better purchasing power. By combining orders, businesses can meet higher minimum purchase requirements and receive better pricing on supplies and ingredients. However, this approach requires flexibility. If this strategy interests you, it is important to identify the best partners for joint purchases, ensure they have adequate storage for larger shipments, and align their purchasing schedules with others. While it may require adjustments, cooperative buying can result in significant cost savings.

Adopting these purchasing habits can help businesses operate more efficiently and reduce unnecessary costs. Implementing even one or two of these strategies can lead to better financial management and long-term success.

Get ahead for the fall/winter holiday season! Make plans to attend RCI’s Annual Convention & Industry Expo, scheduled for June 16-19, 2025, at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington, Kentucky—across the river from downtown Cincinnati. Connect with fellow industry professionals and grow your business through impactful education, tours and collaboration. Explore what's new in the confectionery industry and take away effective business and production strategies. Sign up to get notified when registration opens for this event to secure the best rates!

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.

Monday, January 13, 2025

Stay Connected: Get Notified when Registration Opens for RCI’s 2025 Annual Convention

Relationships are the key to success in any industry. The chocolate and candy industry is no different—this industry thrives on connection and collaboration. Building strong relationships with fellow candy makers and suppliers is not just beneficial—it’s essential for growing your business. That’s why you won’t want to miss RCI’s 2025 Annual Convention & Industry Expo, where networking meets inspiration in the sweetest way possible.

This year’s theme, “Inspiring Generations of Candy Makers,” celebrates the diverse experiences and ideas that every generation brings to the industry. Whether you’re part of a multi-generational business or in your first generation, this event promises something for everyone. From valuable educational sessions, a two-day industry expo to insightful confectionery tours, you’ll leave with new ideas and connections to take your business to the next level.

Mark your calendars now!

This year's candy convention will take place June 16-19, 2025 at the Northern Kentucky Convention Center in Covington, Kentucky, just across the river from downtown Cincinnati. Over the course of the week, you’ll have the chance to:

  • Meet and learn from other candy makers and industry experts.
  • Explore the latest products and innovations from exhibitors during the two-day expo.
  • Attend educational sessions packed with tips and strategies tailored for the confectionery industry.
  • Participate in a full day of confectionery tours to see fellow candy makers in action.

Want to be the first to know when registration opens? 

Signing up for notifications ensures you’ll have access to early-bird registration rates and can start planning your trip well in advance. Whether you’re an RCI member or not, all industry professionals are welcome to join this one-of-a-kind candy convention. Visit retailconfectioners.org/annual to sign up and learn more.

While you’re at it, stay connected year-round by signing up for the RCI NewsBrief, our free weekly e-newsletter. Delivered straight to your inbox, it’s packed with updates on the chocolate and candy industry, plus insights on marketing, business trends, and more. Sign up today and stay in the know!

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow alongside the best in the confectionery industry. We can’t wait to see you in 2025!

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.

Tuesday, April 11, 2023

Invest in Your Business: Register now for RCI’s Annual Convention & Industry Expo

Do you ever feel like you’re stuck in a rut? Are you looking for ways to gain momentum and taking your business to the next level? If so, then you don’t want to miss RCI’s Annual Convention & Industry Expo in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on June 12-16, 2023!

Join fellow confectioners, candy retailers and suppliers looking to gain momentum in their businesses through impactful education and collaboration. Get inspired to take the next step and gain momentum for your business through two days of education led by experts in their fields and designed to meet the unique needs of the retail confectioner.

Learn game-changing retail and merchandising techniques from retail strategists and professional store planners, KIZER & BENDER. In two unique education sessions, this dynamic duo will teach attendees how to engage and connect with customers and offer a better understanding of what you need to do—and how to do it—to take your sales to insane, new levels, as well as create store layouts that sell, sell, sell!

As a new addition to this year’s educational programming, attendees will have the opportunity to select topics that best fit their unique needs and interests during Roundtables: Conversations for Candy Businesses. Participants can join up to three different small groups to discuss specific topics relevant to their confectionery business. Each group will have a moderator to guide the conversation and address questions.

Topics to include:

  • Business Operations
  • Candy Formulations/Troubleshooting
  • Human Resources/Hiring
  • Marketing/Merchandising
  • And more!

Attendees will also gain clarity on FDA packaging and nutrition labeling regulations, as well as how to capture consumer demand by identifying key flavor trends and executing successful new product launches. Click here for a full description of the education sessions offered at RCI’s 2023 Annual Convention & Industry Expo.

Educational sessions will be presented on Tuesday, June 13 and Wednesday, June 14. A variety of ticket packages are available, giving attendees the option to create an experience that fits any schedule and budget. RCI offers a 1-Day Education Ticket for just $225 for those looking to focus strictly on education.

RCI will conclude the week with off-site tours of local candy maker and supplier business, which takes education to the next level. Discounted early-bird tickets are available through April 28, 2023. Visit retailconfectioners.org/annual now to grab your ticket!

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.

Tuesday, May 4, 2021

2 Ways to Invest in Your Business Right Now

Now, more than ever, is the time to invest in your business! Many would agree that education is the best investment you can make in yourself, your team and your business.

Education is deeply rooted in Retail Confectioners International’s (RCI) mission, which is to advance the confectionery industry by offering members the knowledge to build sweet businesses from entrepreneurial passion. For over 100 years, RCI has developed a reputation as a valuable resource for small business owners both established and new to the industry. With that said, we’re thrilled to share two opportunities for you to invest in education, (1) RCI’s Virtual Merchandising Boot Camp and (2) RCI’s 2021 Annual Convention and Industry Expo. Both events are designed to help you expand your knowledge to build an even sweeter business.

Virtual Merchandising Boot Camp
May 18-19, 2021

Get your business on track and on point with 2 half days of in-depth training where you’ll learn how to engage and connect with customers in your store, online and on social media. Retail strategists, professional store planners and the instructors of this course, Rich Kizer and Georganne Bender, KIZER & BENDER, will break down the essentials and offer a better understanding of what you need to do–and how to do it–to increase store traffic and explode your sales.

RCI’s Virtual Merchandising Boot Camp will take you through each of the steps necessary to build a merchandising strategy that gets results. During the course you’ll learn how to:

  • Build a consistent brand inside your store and out.
  • Set your sales floor to sell with effective visual merchandising and displays.
  • Back up your brand with a successful website and strategic digital marketing tactics.
  • Better understand four generations of today’s consumer.

The course will be presented virtually via ZOOM. Students will have the opportunity to interact and ask questions live with instructors. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to build a merchandising and marketing strategy that will take your business to the next level—all without having to leave your desk. Visit retailconfectioners.org/page/VirtualMerchBootCamp for complete course details. Registration is open now!

Annual Convention & Industry Expo
July 19-23, 2021 – Columbus, Ohio

If you attend one in-person event in 2021, this is the one to attend! Join RCI for the 2021 Annual Convention & Industry Expo at the Greater Columbus July 19-23.

Safely explore what’s new in the confectionery industry and take away effective business and production strategies to help you build a more successful business. Designed uniquely for the retail confectioner, this event will continue to offer attendees educational sessions, a two-day expo, confectionery tours and connection opportunities.

As part of this year’s educational programming, attendees will join the discussion with a panel of retail confectioners whose businesses have adapted or pivoted to not only survive, but thrive, despite the challenges presented in 2020 and today. Learn how they made the most of their opportunities with strategic thinking and action, as well as what worked and what didn’t.

In addition, attendees will take away effective business and production strategies with thought-provoking education on the following subjects:

  • Build an Exceptional Team Through Coaching and Mentoring
  • Positioned for Growth
  • Nougat: An Artisan Approach

Educational sessions will be presented on Tuesday, July 20 and Wednesday, July 21. While the convention is hosted by RCI, all confectionery professionals are invited to attend. A variety of ticket packages are available, giving attendees the option to create an experience that fits any schedule and budget. RCI offers a 1-Day Education Ticket for just $225 for those looking to focus on strictly on education.

RCI will conclude the week with off-site tours of local candy businesses, which takes education to the next level. Register by May 14 for best rates. Visit retailconfectioners.org/annual for complete details on this year’s convention.

Don’t miss an opportunity to invest in yourself and your business. Focus on learning this year and watch your business benefit as a result.

Crave more? If you like what you read here, look for the "Subscribe now" box on the right to enter your email address 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.

Tuesday, May 28, 2019

Throwback Tip #269: Celebrate National Almond Buttercrunch Day


This buttery and crunchy treat is “one of the finest confections made,” according to Walter Richmond, author of Choice Confections.

With National Almond Buttercrunch Day at the end of June, now is the time to make plans to perfect your recipe or introduce this popular confection into your product line. Keep reading for expert tips on how to achieve the signature crunch as well as a formulation worthy of a national holiday.

So how do you get the perfect crunch? This confection’s signature crunch comes from a high cook temperature and the right formulation of ingredients, namely butter and sugar. Typically made by caramelizing sugar with butterfat at a high temperature of 290-300° F. Equally important, the ratio of butter and sugar will have an effect of the grain of the crunch. Richmond recommends 37-42 percent butter and 63-58 percent sugar (nuts excluded) for the confection to gradually become softer and melt in your mouth when eating.

Use the following formulation to adapt this classic recipe in your own candy kitchen.
Click here to download formulation

Whether it’s the crunch or rich buttery goodness, consumers love buttercrunch enough to honor it with a national holiday. If you’re looking for opportunities to learn more about improving your buttercrunch and other candy recipes, connecting with fellow candy makers is one of the best ways to do so. It’s not too late to register for RCI’s Annual Convention & Industry Expo in Hartford, Connecticut June 3-7, 2019 at the Connecticut Convention Center. Attend RCI’s two-day Industry Expo for only $5 with promo code RCIHigh5. Click here to register online today!

As always, attending RCI’s Industry Expo is free to members! Extend your stay and we’ll extend the early-bird discount to offer you the best value! Register now and save $100 on the Convention Pass or 3-Day Pass when you use the promo code SAVE100.

Crave more? If you like what you read here, look for the "Subscribe now" box on the right to enter your email address and start receiving weekly tips, like this, delivered straight to your email inbox. RCI's Tip of the Week 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.

Wednesday, April 11, 2018

3 Ways RCI's Annual Convention & Industry Expo Will Help You Rock Your Candy Business


Wanna ROCK your candy business or chocolate shop? Retail Confectioners International (RCI) is cranking up the volume for the 2018 Annual Convention & Industry Expo in Cleveland, Ohio on June 18 through 22. Keep reading for three ways attending RCI's Annual Convention & Industry Expo will help you ROCK your candy business.

Education That Rocks
Get ready to rock with an energetic, interactive and funny keynote designed for the retail confectioner. Discover how to reinvent and revolutionize your candy business using innovative success secrets that created household names like The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Tina Turner and Aerosmith. Using the same techniques as these bona fide rockstars, attendees will learn how to:
  • Create a grand vision
  • Channel uniqueness into huge growth
  • Use the three keys of awesome teamwork
  • Build an action-oriented culture
  • Drive and lead change
In addition to the keynote session “Opportunity Rocks,” attendees will learn how to outshine the competition through two days of education sessions led industry experts on the subjects of merchandising, product development and hiring. Attendees will also have the opportunity to apply key merchandising concepts during a hands-on workshop.

Game-Changing Insight

RCI takes education to the next level through exclusive behind-the-scenes tours. Gain a new perspective of your craft while touring the following rockstar local businesses, sure to inspire ideas to take home to your own retail shop.
  • B.A. Sweetie Candy Company
  • Gorant Chocolatier
  • Linnea’s Candy Supplies, Inc.
  • Malley’s Chocolates
  • Mitchell’s Fine Chocolates
  • Popped!
  • Sun America LLC
  • Tap Packaging Solutions

Rock Star Networking

Join RCI for a red-carpet after party you won’t forget! Dressed as your favorite rockstar, roll VIP-style with private access to all seven floors of exhibits at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame! Jam with an 80s tribute band, enjoy a hosted bar, capture memories in photos taken by the “paparazzi” and more!

Simply attending this event will expose you to relevant education, inspiring and insightful behind-the-scenes tours and network opportunities fit for rockstars. Don't miss this great opportunity to learn, connect and discover how we can help you build your sweet business!

Registration by April 20 and save $100 on the Convention Pass! Registration is open to RCI members and non-members with industry credentials. Visit retailconfectioners.org/annual or call 800-545-5381 for more details.

Tuesday, March 27, 2018

Tip #260: Help Build the Next Generation of Sweet Leaders


As an association, RCI is committed to supporting the next generation of confectionery leaders. In 2012 RCI developed the Next Generation group as a platform to encourage members in their twenties and thirties to build relationships and connect through fun, interactive events.

Being part of a multi-generational, family business, RCI Board President Steve Vande Walle, shares his first experience as the new kid on the block and why supporting young confectionery professionals is important to the industry as a whole.
"[RCI's Next Generation event was created to help the younger generation] develop relationships with members their age, many of whom will turn out to be life-long friends, creating a network of confectionery colleagues facing many of the same challenges who can turn to each other to solve problems and learn from, "says Vande Walle. 
"I wish they had something like this 30 years ago, when I first started attending conventions. I remember attending a networking reception in those days, and seeing all of the “older” members chatting and socializing like they were all best friends."
As a reminder for the more "seasoned" professionals, Vande Walle states, "as leaders of RCI, it is our responsibility to make sure professional growth and networking opportunities for our younger members continues to be available as a way to help our next generation flourish. I believe the next generation events are a step in that direction. Please encourage all young RCI members to attend Next Generation events and even consider becoming a member of our Next Generation Committee. Being a part of the inner workings of the association is very interesting and even more rewarding." 
Regardless of your age, you, too, can help foster the success of future industry leaders by mentoring younger staff or members of your community, encouraging them to participate in local organizations for young professionals, enrolling them in an education course or by sending them to a industry-related conference. 

Consider bringing a young member of your team to RCI's Annual Convention & Industry Expo in Cleveland, Ohio June 18-22, 2018. Aside from all the great education, networking and tours, these "next geners" will leave having made meaningful and lasting connections with colleagues their age that could have an impact on their professional careers for years to come. Visit retailconfectioners.org/annual to learn more and register to attend.

Stay connected with RCI through Facebook for more tips and inspiration dedicated to the retail candy maker. Not a member? Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business.

Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Tip # 234: How to Apply Water Marbling Effect to Moulded Chocolates


For members looking to gain creative ideas at RCI’s 2017 Annual Convention & Industry Expo, Candy Clinic did not disappoint. Since the thirties, this member-exclusive event has allowed RCI members from across the United States, Canada and abroad to share their best ideas and gain inspiration from fellow candy makers. Keep reading for an idea that won the award for best innovation at the latest Candy Clinic.

Inspired by an associate’s manicured finger nails, RCI member Cher Diamond of Maurie’s Fine Chocolates of Madison, shared a creative technique for applying cocoa butter to moulded chocolates. Water marbling is a technique used to create a unique nail polish design by adding droplets of nail polish to water before applying it to the nail. A similar effect can be achieved with cocoa butter and water.

Start by filling a bowl with room temperature water. If you read tutorials online for water marbling, they recommend using filtered or bottled water. Get cocoa butter spray, shake it up and spray it into the water. Because the oils in cocoa butter resist the water, the cocoa butter will float on top of the water, allowing you to create a unique design with a variety of different colored cocoa butters. Drag a toothpick or other similar object through the cocoa butter, cleaning it after each use.

Once the desired marbleized effect is achieved, take a finished moulded piece or just the shell and run it through the cocoa butter. Let each moulded piece dry for three hours or overnight. You may finish the piece by applying a glaze spray, but according to Cher, the cocoa butter will not rub off or detemper the chocolate.

If you’re looking to create stunning chocolate pieces, give this simple and fun water marbling technique a try and let us know how it turns out by leaving a comment below.

Want to learn more innovative ideas like this one? Idea sharing is just one of the many benefits of membership with Retail Confectioners International (RCI)! Click here to learn how RCI can help you build your sweet business

Tuesday, April 11, 2017

Tip # 228: Get More at RCI’s Annual Convention & Industry Expo


We're giving you more than ever before at RCI's 2017 Annual Convention & Industry Expo at The Westin Lombard! In addition to the same great benefits of attending as a candy maker or a supplier, we're giving you more in terms of education, tours and networking! Keep reading for reasons why you don't want to miss out on this event!

More Education
For as long as RCI has existed, education has played an integral role in the convention experience. This year, attendees can expect a more individualized educational experience with the addition of new one-on-one appointments and interactive workshops.

RCI members looking for solutions to problem candies or to maximize their social media presence, have the opportunity to schedule personal 30-minute consultations during our new one-on-one appointments. Consultations are exclusively available to RCI members registered for the event and are available by appointment only. View retailconfectioners.org/annual for more information on how to schedule a consultation.

Also new for 2017, two interactive workshops designed to equip attendees with the tools needed to successfully engage consumers and to create a pipeline of new and innovative products. Workshops are exclusive to Convention Pass holders, interested parties may reserve their seats when registering. Space is limited.

More Tours
One of the most popular components of RCI events are the behind-the-scenes tours, which take place on the final two days of the week. This June, RCI tours will include eight tour locations.

  • Albanese Confectionery
  • Arway Confections
  • Barry Callebaut
  • Blommer Chocolate Co.
  • Long Grove Confectionery Co.
  • Morkes Chocolates
  • Primrose Candy Co.
  • Savage Bros. Co.

See what chocolate looks like at every step of the process, how state-of-the-art confectionery machinery is built and experience candy production from hand-dipped chocolates to full-scale robotics. Each tour location has been selected to help attendees gain a new perspective of the craft and inspire new ideas to use in their own retail stores.

More Networking
After the conclusion of the first meeting of retail confectioners, attendees recognized the value in connecting with industry colleagues to share ideas and learn from each other. Since that time, these relationships have been a driving force in the continuation of our association.

No doubt, one's 100th anniversary is cause for celebration! We have scheduled more social events to mark RCI's significant milestone anniversary and make it easy for attendees to mingle and build relationships. Make plans now to attend the following new social events for 2017, included in the Convention Pass, 3-Day Pass or A La Carte (as a package or as individual tickets).

New Networking Events For 2017:

   Welcome Reception
   Monday, June 12 | 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
   Reconnect with industry friends and meet new colleagues as we gather together for this
   opening reception to kick off the convention week.

   100th Anniversary Gala
   Wednesday, June 14 | 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
   Celebrate RCI's rich history in grand fashion during our 100th Anniversary Gala. Relive
   memories of the past through a visual tribute while enjoying a five-course meal, live music
   and dancing.

   The Finale Reception
   Thursday, June 15 | 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
   Watch the 1920s come to life during this fun, interactive farewell reception and murder
   mystery party! An experience you'll never forget, attendees get the chance to play a role in
   a murder mystery, win prizes at the gaming tables, have their likenesses drawn by a
   caricature artist and more!


Be part of this historic event by celebrating with us! Register at retailconfectioners.org/annual by April 28 and save $100!
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