As the U.S. approaches its 250th anniversary, we have a unique opportunity to tell the story of confectionery in America — focusing not just on where it’s made, but what it means to Americans.
Chocolate and candy have been part of American life since the beginning. These treats are a key piece of holidays, traditions and occasions — the big and small moments that connect us. We knew that telling that story in a fresh way required us to think differently.
So we did something unexpected: We created a song.
At the center of the National Confectioners Association‘s Sweet Land of Liberty campaign is an original, AI-powered anthem designed to give us a sonic identity. And we’re breaking ground when we do it: It’s the first time a trade association has launched a national advocacy campaign with its very own soundtrack.
Music evokes emotion, builds memory and brings people together — all things that chocolate and candy are known for, too. With that spirit in mind, we sought to create something people could connect with — and share — immediately.
While our industry generates $55 billion in annual retail sales and supports tens of thousands of American jobs, the story is bigger than the numbers. It’s about how candy fits into everyday life, and this anthem helps to communicate that.
It also reflects who we are as an industry that is always seeking to innovate and meet consumers where they want to be met. Confectionery has always balanced heritage and innovation, and using AI to help create and distribute this song allowed us to reach audiences in a modern, engaging way on the streaming platforms and digital channels where people already are.
The song is just the beginning. Throughout 2026, the Sweet Land of Liberty campaign will come to life through events, partnerships and activations. The soundtrack ties it all together and gives the campaign a unique voice.
As we look ahead to America’s 250th birthday, we’re proud to celebrate an industry that has been there since the start — and to tell that story in a way that’s just as memorable as the products we create.
Listen to the anthem and learn more at CandyUSA.com/SweetLand.
Recent related stories:
- Q&A: NCA’s John Downs shares insights on the state of the confectionery industry
- Q&A: From bold flavors to “new-stalgia” — what’s next in candy and snacks
- Three companies looking to transform the grocery technology landscape
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