May 2026 Issue

As the confectionery industry progresses through 2026, innovation, sustainability and evolving consumer expectations continue to shape every stage of production and product development. In this latest issue of International Confectionery Magazine, we explore how manufacturers are balancing efficiency with creativity while responding to demand for cleaner ingredient systems, flexible production and environmentally conscious solutions.

Production and automation technologies remain central to the industry’s evolution. Our Production & Processing feature investigates how depositing and aeration technologies are improving consistency, efficiency and product complexity across confectionery manufacturing. Bühler showcases its new SoftDrop depositor, designed to combine precision with operational simplicity for high-quality production environments. In this month’s Innovator interview, TNA Solutions CEO Michael Jonson discusses how connected technologies and simplified integration strategies are helping manufacturers future-proof operations.

Packaging innovation and sustainability continue to dominate industry conversations throughout the sector. Our Packaging feature explores how compostable materials and digital traceability technologies are reshaping confectionery packaging strategies in response to consumer expectations and regulatory pressures. CAMA GROUP highlights how growing demand for greater product variety is driving opportunities for automation and flexibility within multi-flavour packaging systems.

Finally, we review key developments from this year’s interpack exhibition, where automation, sustainability and efficiency were once again major themes.