The National Confectioners Association (NCA) has named Billie-Ann Plastics Packaging Corp. as the winner of the 2026 Ruby Award for Supplier Innovation for its RPET Clear Cylinder with Optional Snap In/Snap On Top and Printing.
The award was presented during the Sweets & Snacks Expo Awards Ceremony May 18 in Las Vegas.
Created in 2018, the Ruby Award recognizes breakthrough innovations from the supplier community that advance the confectionery industry. The award honors an NCA supplier member company that has developed an innovation in the past year that improves the ability of confectioners to manufacture, distribute, market, and/or sell chocolate and candy.
“The confectionery industry continues to evolve through investments in people, innovation, and new technologies that strengthen manufacturing and support long-term growth,” said John Downs, president and CEO of the National Confectioners Association.
“The Ruby Award recognizes supplier partners that are delivering creative solutions to help confectionery companies operate more efficiently, innovate responsibly, and meet changing consumer expectations.”
Sustainable packaging solution
The winning innovation from Billie-Ann Plastics is a recyclable confectionery packaging solution made with a minimum of 25 percent post-consumer recycled (PCR) PET content, offering confectionery companies a sustainable alternative to traditional virgin plastic cylinders without sacrificing premium shelf appeal or product visibility.
Billie-Ann Plastics developed the packaging solution in response to growing demand for more sustainable and reusable packaging options that could seamlessly integrate into existing manufacturing operations. The cylinders require no tooling changes, new equipment or filling-line modifications, making adoption accessible for confectionery businesses of all sizes.
Why this matters for independent grocers
For independent grocers, packaging innovations like Billie-Ann’s RPET cylinder address two converging trends.
First, consumer demand for sustainable packaging continues to grow, and candy displayed in recognizable eco-friendly packaging can serve as a point of differentiation at the shelf.
Second, because the cylinders require no new equipment or line modifications, smaller confectionery brands – including those that independent grocers might source from local or regional suppliers – can adopt the packaging without significant capital investment. Independent grocers looking to highlight sustainability in their candy sets may want to ask their suppliers whether they are using PCR materials like those recognized by the Ruby Award.
Finalist: Cargill
NCA also recognized Cargill as a finalist for NextCoa, a portfolio of cocoa-free confectionery alternatives developed in partnership with Voyage Foods. Made with upcycled grape seeds, NextCoa is designed to deliver a chocolate-like sensory experience while helping manufacturers address cocoa supply challenges, cost volatility and sustainability goals.
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