The National Confectionery Sales Association (NCSA) has announced 11 inductees for the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2026 and named Michael Rosenberg, President and CEO of PIM Brands, Inc., as the recipient of the 2026 Distinguished Service Award.
Both honors will be presented at the NCSA’s annual meeting on Oct. 22-24 at the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek in Orlando, with the formal induction ceremony on Oct. 24.
Class of 2026 inductees
The 11 inductees span manufacturing, distribution, retail buying and industry services:
- Allison Miazga-Bedrick, Mars Snacking;
- Dale Buys, The Walt Disney Co.;
- Michael Flynn, Stribbons Inc.;
- Juan Gallicchio, Thayer Distribution (posthumous);
- Tim Galloway, Galloway Co.;
- Debra Harris, Shankman & Associates Inc.;
- Taz Murray, Murray Asset Management;
- Katherine Phegley, Brown & Haley;
- Kaye Powell, S. Abraham & Sons Inc.;
- Michael Sitarz, Elmer Chocolate; and
- Alan Yarmaloff, CVS Health.
NCSA President Byard Ebling said the class reflects the full range of the confectionery industry’s talent pipeline.
“This year’s inductees represent the very best of our industry – visionary leaders, innovators and mentors who have strengthened the confectionery community through decades of dedication and service. We look forward to celebrating their extraordinary careers with family, friends, and colleagues this October in Orlando,” Ebling said.
The Candy Hall of Fame has recognized lifetime career achievement in the confectionery industry since 1971. Candidates must have at least 20 years of industry service – 10 years for buyers – and be at least 50 years old at the time of nomination. Honorees must also demonstrate active involvement in the industry beyond their primary professional responsibilities.
Rosenberg honored for association leadership
Rosenberg, who founded PIM Brands as a young entrepreneur and has led the company through decades of growth, was cited for his sustained contributions to NCSA operations and governance. He serves on the association’s Manufacturer Advisory Council, works closely with its board of directors, and was instrumental in bringing The Kettle Award — an 80-year-old industry honor — under the NCSA banner. He is also a member of The Kettle Club.
Ebling said Rosenberg’s impact on the association has been both practical and generational.
“The confectionery industry has always been more than a business to Michael — it’s a lifelong commitment. From founding his company as a young entrepreneur to leading one of the industry’s most dynamic organizations, he has consistently paired innovation and growth with meaningful service. Michael has given his time, expertise and leadership to strengthen the NCSA. His impact spans generations, and we are proud to recognize him with the NCSA Distinguished Service Award,” Ebling said.
Registration details for the October induction ceremony will be available in early summer at candyhalloffame.org.
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