LAS VEGAS — The National Confectioners Association (NCA) today announced Billie-Ann Plastics Packaging Corp. as the winner of the 2026 Ruby Award for Supplier Innovation for its RPET Clear Cylinder with Optional Snap In/Snap On Top and Printing. The award will be presented during the Sweets & Snacks Expo Awards Ceremony on Monday, May 18 in Las Vegas.
“The confectionery industry continues to evolve through investments in people, innovation, and new technologies that strengthen manufacturing and support long-term growth,” John Downs, president and CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said. “The Ruby Award recognizes supplier partners that are delivering creative solutions to help confectionery companies operate more efficiently, innovate responsibly, and meet changing consumer expectations.”
Created in 2018 to celebrate breakthrough innovations from the supplier community that advance the confectionery industry, the Ruby Award for Supplier Innovation recognizes a National Confectioners Association supplier member company that has developed an innovation in the past year that improves the ability of confectioners to manufacture, distribute, market, and/or sell chocolate and candy.
The winning innovation from Billie-Ann Plastics is a recyclable confectionery packaging solution made with a minimum of 25% post-consumer recycled (PCR) PET content, offering confectionery companies a sustainable alternative to traditional virgin plastic cylinders without sacrificing premium shelf appeal or product visibility.
Billie-Ann Plastics developed the packaging solution in response to growing demand for more sustainable and reusable packaging options that could seamlessly integrate into existing manufacturing operations. The cylinders require no tooling changes, new equipment or filling-line modifications, making adoption accessible for confectionery businesses of all sizes.
NCA also recognized Cargill as a finalist for NextCoa™, a portfolio of cocoa-free confectionery alternatives developed in partnership with Voyage Foods. Made with upcycled grape seeds, NextCoa™ is designed to deliver a chocolate-like sensory experience while helping manufacturers address cocoa supply challenges, cost volatility and sustainability goals.
For more information, check out the official Sweets & Snacks Expo Media Kit for additional show details and media resources.
To set up an interview with a Sweets & Snacks Expo spokesperson, please email candy@teamlsg.com.
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About Sweets & Snacks Expo
The Sweets & Snacks Expo is the premier event for the confectionery and snack industries. Featuring new product launches, business-building solutions, and merchandising innovations, this annual trade show brings together qualified candy and snack retail professionals and company representatives who showcase the latest in candy and snack products. The event is hosted by the National Confectioners Association. Learn more at SweetsAndSnacks.com.
About the National Confectioners Association (NCA)
The National Confectioners Association is the voice of the U.S. confectionery industry. Our member companies create moments of joy with chocolate, candy, gum, and mints, drive $55 billion in retail sales, and add a little sweetness to life. NCA champions policies that help candy makers and other stakeholders in this unique category thrive while reminding consumers that chocolate and candy are treats. Learn more at CandyUSA.com or follow NCA on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
