Twelve candy business professionals who have made lasting contributions to the candy industry and two confectionery pioneers are being honored with induction into the Candy Hall of Fame. The official induction will take place this October in Tampa, Fla. at the National Confectionary Sales Association’s (NCSA) 110th annual meeting.
The Candy Hall of Fame recognizes the achievements of industry leaders drawn from across the world.
Each year, up to 12 inductees are selected from numerous nominations of candy brokers, sales personnel, manufacturers, retail buyers, wholesalers, industry suppliers, retail confectioners and others allied to the industry. Past inductees have included industry legends from the U.S., Brazil, Germany, Canada, Mexico, Argentina and England.
This year’s honorees include Jack Bielat, BJ’s Wholesale Club Inc.; Dave Fleischer, Cadbury North America; George Kaye, Supreme Chocolatier; Dave Klabunde, Annabelle Candy Co.; John Leipold, Goetze’s Candy Co.; Getulio Ursulino Netto, ABICAB; Dan Phillips, George J. Howe Co.; Terry Richardson, Richardson Researches Inc.; Larry Hassler, Pearson Candy Co.; Ross Born, Just Born Inc.; Raymond “Buz” Heinz, Bell Flavors & Fragrances Europe; and Tom Scheiman, B.A. Sweetie Candy Co.
In addition, Russell Stover, founder of Russell Stover Candies, and H.B. Reese, inventor of the Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, will be posthumously honored with induction.
“Each inductee is a respected leader in their field and well-deserving of the honor, said Douglas Taylor, Sr., chairman of the NCSA. “They represent the best of our industry,” he added.
The 2009 inductees will be recognized at a black-tie gala dinner and featured in audio-visual biographies at the Renaissance Tampa Hotel International Plaza, where more than 300 industry dignitaries, family members and friends are expected to attend the induction.
Visitors to the All Candy Expo in Chicago on May 19-21, had the chance to view biographical details on hundreds of confectionery legends and pioneers. Built with generous support from Ferrara Pan Candy Co., the exhibit featured audio/visual presentations chronicling the past, present and future of the Candy Hall of Fame.