Candy making fuels the American economy to great effect, according to a new report released by the National Confectioners Association. U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH) and U.S. Representative Steny Hoyer (D-MD) joined industry leaders at The Newseum in Washington, D.C., to unveil the new economic impact data. The confectionery industry directly employs 55,000 people in the United States, and more than 400,000 jobs in agriculture, retail, transportation and other industries rely in part on the sale of confections for their livelihood. For every job that is created in confectionery another seven are supported in related industries, which means that candy drives a multiplier effect of 1:7 or an impact of 700 percent.

"This is an industry positioned for growth and opportunity, and we are creating American products with American workers in cities and towns throughout America," John H. Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said. "Our products represent honest, affordable, great tasting, fun, transparent treats. Our 1:7 multiplier effect is a huge benefit to our economy – and that is the power of sweet."

The candy industry is comprised of hundreds of small and medium-size, family-owned businesses as well as the multi-national companies with global brands that operate more than 1,000 manufacturing facilities in all 50 states. This week, confectionery industry leaders from across the country are in Washington to share this new economic impact data with Members of Congress, government officials and other stakeholders. Executives from top confectionery companies are advocating for a policy and regulatory environment that will foster business growth and unlock more potential for job creation.

"The candy industry is one of the bright spots of our economy that has seen continued growth," Senator Ayotte said. "Last month I visited Lindt- Sprüngli USA's headquarters in Stratham, New Hampshire, and learned about their plans to expand and hire additional workers. Lindt also partners with local technical high schools and community colleges to educate students about potential career opportunities. In the Senate, I'm working on multiple pieces of bipartisan legislation aimed at bringing together business and education institutions to build help build a stronger workforce and create a better environment for job creation and growth."

The confectionery industry is doing its part to help address the ongoing conversation about food and nutrition policy, wellness and food safety. NCA member companies are providing consumers with the information, options and support they need to make the choices that are right for them. NCA's front-of-pack labeling program puts calorie information right at consumers' fingertips. Candy companies also make a wide variety of options - available in packages ranging from fun size to share size - that can bring a little sweetness to any occasion. America's leading candy companies are committed to marketing their products responsibly. Companies representing the majority of the industry and its products have joined the Children's Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative, including The Hershey Company, Mars, Inc., Nestlé USA, Mondelēz International, Inc., Ferrero USA, Inc., and American Licorice Company. Most of the candy on store shelves today is made by companies that do not advertise on children's programming.

Consumers understand the role of confections in their lives and choose to enjoy candy in moderation. In fact, most people in the United States enjoy candy about twice a week, averaging less than 50 calories per day from confectionery items.