Conference Agenda
Theme: Innovation - Thinking Outside the Box
Join us for an unforgettable experience of innovation, networking, and industry insights!
1:00 PM - 5:30 PM – Registration Opens
Kick off your conference experience by getting checked in.
5:00 PM - 5:30 PM – New Members Reception
A warm welcome for our newest members—network, meet, and mingle with the industry’s brightest minds.5:30 PM - 7:00 PM – Welcome Reception
Let the networking begin! Enjoy drinks, appetizers, and a chance to connect with peers in a relaxed setting.7:00 PM - 10:00 PM – Dinner Hosted by Blommer, Barry Callebaut, Clasen, Guittard, and IRCA
We invite everyone to join us directly after the reception as the evening continues with an engaging and relaxed gathering featuring networking and chocolate-focused hospitality.
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM – Breakfast
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day.
8:00 AM – Chairman's Welcome
Our Chairman, Philippe Tytgat, will open the conference with a warm welcome and highlight exciting moments ahead.8:30 AM - 9:30 AM – Matt Paige – AI in Action
Transforming the Power of AI to Value for Your Organization.9:35 AM - 10:20 AM – Anita Anello - Managing Change Within Rapidly Evolving Organizations
How to align people, processes, and expectations to successfully navigate change and drive adoption.
10:20 AM - 10:35 AM – Networking Break
Grab a coffee and connect with fellow attendees.
10:35 AM - 11:35 PM – Taz Murray, Building & Scaling Brands
Lessons from building and scaling confectionery brands, creating new categories, and unlocking growth opportunities.
11:35 AM - 12:00 PM – Michael Caughlan - Membership Update
12:30 - 4:00 PM – Roundtables (By Invitation Only - Lunch Provided)
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Manufacturers' Senior Leadership Roundtable - Rick Kay, Host, with Mike Jones, Facilitator
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Next-Generation Roundtable - Cody Heinz, Host
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Suppliers' Leadership Roundtable - Mike Caughlan, Host
4:30 PM - 5:30 PM: Buses pickup at Hotel
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM: Dinner & Activities at The Buckhorn Saloon & Texas Ranger Museum, Downtown San AntonioJoin us for a one-of-a-kind adventure "where it all began". From Teddy Roosevelt's Rough Riders to Pancho Villa and the Mexican Revolution, this is where history was made. In addition to great food and a unique atmosphere, we have a number of special activities that will make this a night to remember. Two blocks from the historic Alamo and a block from the famous River Walk, this is an event you don't want to miss!
8:30 PM - 9:30 PM: Buses depart for Hotel
You are welcome to stay and enjoy the River Walk and downtown San Antonio. Transportation back to the hotel is available by taxi or ride share options.
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7:30 AM - 12:00 PM – Golf Tournament (additional registration and cost)
Tee off with industry professionals at the championship Hill Country Golf Club featuring a diverse terrain, from link-style, rolling meadows to tree-shaded plateaus and tranquil (dreaded) lakes and ponds. Lunch is included.7:45 AM - 11:00 PM – Pickleball Tournament (additional registration and cost)
We’re excited to bring Pickleball to our activities once again! Get your game on and join us for an exciting and fun tournament. Lunch is included.
12:00 PM - 2:30 PM – Lunch Buffet (additional registration and cost)
Didn't play golf or pickleball? You can still enjoy a delicious lunch with your peers, with plenty of time for networking!(Golf & Pickleball Awards will be presented)
Dinner on your own – More opportunities to explore the city or dine with fellow conference-goers!
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM – Breakfast
Start your final day of the conference with a fresh, energizing breakfast.8:15 AM - 9:15 AM – WCA Annual Business Meeting
Catch up on the latest updates and exciting developments within the Western Candy Association.9:15 AM - 10:00 AM – Annie Starke Lange, The Regulatory Landscape
A timely update on key policy issues shaping the confectionery industry—from tariffs to the evolving regulatory landscape.
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM – Supplier Tabletop
Discover new products and innovations from top suppliers. This offers a unique opportunity to have direct discussions with candy manufacturer owners and senior leadership teams. It’s a chance to connect, collaborate, and discover new opportunities!12:00 PM - 1:30 PM – Keynote Speaker
We’re excited to welcome Dan McCoy, MD, founder and executive chocolatier of Hill County Chocolate, as our 2026 Keynote Speaker!
Dr. McCoy will share real-world insights on applying AI in a small-batch manufacturing company. A rare blend of leadership, innovation and craft - this is a keynote you won't want to miss!
6:00 PM - 10:00 PM – Closing Reception and Dinner
End the conference on a high note with dinner, music, dancing, and more!
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to connect with the brightest minds in the candy industry, gain valuable knowledge, and have some fun along the way!