The National Candy Wholesalers Association (NCWA) as a standalone entity and its “Marketplace” event no longer exist in their original form. The NCWA merged with the National Association of Tobacco Distributors (NATD) in 1991 to form the American Wholesale Marketers Association (AWMA), which later evolved into the Convenience Distribution Association (CDA) in 2015.

The primary event for this segment of the industry is now the Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX), hosted by the CDA. This event serves the convenience distribution industry, which includes candy, snacks, tobacco, general merchandise, and other convenience products.

Therefore, the content below will reflect the current structure under the CDA and its CDBX event, providing information relevant to what the “NCWA Marketplace” has become for the modern industry professional.

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Sweet Success and Strategic Partnerships: Your Guide to the Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX)!

In the fast-paced world of convenience retail, where consumer demand shifts in an instant and product innovation is key, there’s one event that stands as the strategic epicenter for distributors, manufacturers, and retailers. This is the Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX), hosted by the Convenience Distribution Association (CDA). While the name “National Candy Wholesalers Association (NCWA) Marketplace” might resonate with industry veterans, its legacy lives on through the CDBX, which represents the evolved and expanded scope of what was once a confectionery-focused gathering. This isn’t merely a trade show; it’s a meticulously designed platform for high-level business meetings, a forum for crucial industry insights, and an unparalleled networking opportunity for professionals across the entire convenience products supply chain. Imagine stepping into a dynamic environment where the latest trends in snacks, beverages, confectionery, tobacco, and general merchandise are on full display. You’re surrounded by the industry’s most influential decision-makers: wholesale distributors, major manufacturers, emerging brands, and key service providers, all poised to forge partnerships that drive sales and streamline distribution. The CDBX is where the deals are struck that put products on shelves across convenience stores, gas stations, and other quick-turn retail formats, shaping what consumers grab on the go. For any company involved in supplying, distributing, or retailing convenience products, attending this event is not just beneficial; it’s absolutely essential for staying competitive, discovering new opportunities, and ensuring your business is poised for future growth.

The convenience distribution industry is a vital, yet often unseen, engine of the retail economy. It ensures that everything from a bag of chips to a new energy drink makes its way efficiently from manufacturer to retailer, satisfying immediate consumer needs. This sector is constantly adapting to new consumer preferences, regulatory changes, and technological advancements. From sustainable packaging and digital ordering systems to the latest flavors in confectionery and innovative vape products, the industry is tirelessly innovating to keep pace. The CDBX serves as the essential meeting point for this innovation. It’s where a candy manufacturer can secure new distribution channels, where a wholesale distributor can discover the next trending snack, and where technology providers can demonstrate solutions that enhance supply chain efficiency. The unique format of the event, prioritizing one-on-one business appointments, ensures that both buyers and sellers maximize their time and achieve tangible outcomes. If you’re a manufacturer aiming to expand your product’s reach, a distributor looking to optimize your portfolio and operations, or a professional eager to deepen your understanding of the trends and challenges facing convenience distribution, attending the CDBX offers a highly efficient, insightful, and profoundly strategic experience that directly contributes to your success in this incredibly dynamic sector.

The Strategic Nexus: Venue and Time

The Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX), following the tradition of its predecessors like the NCWA Marketplace, emphasizes a dynamic approach to its venue, often choosing a different major U.S. city each year. This rotation allows the event to remain fresh, accessible to different regional participants, and leverage various convention facilities.

A Rotating Stage for Business: The CDBX typically selects major convention-friendly cities across the United States. While specific future dates and locations are confirmed annually by the CDA, recent and typical venues include prominent convention centers in cities known for their business infrastructure.

• Recent Examples (though not exhaustive, as the venue varies): Past locations have included cities like Orlando, Florida; Scottsdale, Arizona; and Dallas, Texas.
• What this means for venues: The choice of such cities ensures the event utilizes well-equipped convention centers or integrated resort convention spaces. These facilities provide:
  • Ample Meeting Space: Dedicated areas for the crucial one-on-one business appointments (“Business Exchange” sessions), along with exhibit areas for showcasing products and services.
  • Modern Amenities: State-of-the-art technology for presentations, comfortable meeting environments, and supporting services.
  • Accessibility: Located in cities with major airports, ensuring convenient travel for attendees and exhibitors from across the nation.

Optimizing for Business: The Schedule The CDBX is an annual event, typically held in late winter or early spring (e.g., February or March). This timing is strategic, allowing businesses to finalize plans and secure deals for the upcoming year’s product cycles.

• Duration: The Expo generally runs for three focused days, designed for efficient and high-impact interactions.
  • Day 1: Often begins with a welcome reception, initial networking opportunities, and possibly an opening general session or keynote address.
  • Day 2: A full day dedicated to the core “Business Exchange” appointments, where manufacturers and distributors hold pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings, alongside limited exhibit time or focused educational sessions.
  • Day 3: Continues with more “Business Exchange” appointments and often concludes with a final networking lunch or closing session in the early afternoon, allowing for attendee travel.

The core of the CDBX is its highly structured “Business Exchange” format:

• Pre-Scheduled One-on-One Meetings: This is the hallmark of the event. Distributors and manufacturers are matched for a series of short, focused meetings, maximizing the efficiency of interaction and ensuring direct engagement between buyers and sellers. This differs from traditional trade shows where exhibitors passively wait for visitors.
• Networking Events: Daily breakfasts, lunches, and evening receptions are critical components, providing ample opportunities for informal networking, relationship building, and discussions that extend beyond the formal meeting schedule.
• Educational Sessions: While the emphasis is on business meetings, the CDBX also often incorporates “Insight Sessions” or general sessions featuring industry experts who discuss economic trends, regulatory updates, technological advancements, and best practices relevant to convenience distribution.
• Limited Exhibit Area: There might be a smaller, more curated exhibit area for broader product display or for companies offering services that complement the core product exchange.

This highly efficient and strategic structure ensures that attendees, particularly those in the wholesale distribution sector, can achieve significant business objectives within a concentrated timeframe.

The Full Spectrum of Convenience: Key Product Categories

The Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX) covers the entire range of products and services that flow through the convenience distribution channel, reflecting the diverse inventory found in convenience stores, gas stations, and other grab-and-go retail formats. It’s a comprehensive showcase for the modern convenience store “total store” concept. Key product and service categories you can expect to explore include:

• Confectionery:
  • Candy: Chocolate bars, bagged candy, novelty candy, seasonal candy, gum, mints.
  • Snacks: Salty snacks (chips, pretzels, nuts), sweet snacks (cookies, pastries, snack cakes), meat snacks (jerky).
• Beverages:
  • Soft drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, bottled water, ready-to-drink coffee and tea, juices, dairy drinks.
  • Alcoholic beverages (where legally permitted and relevant to the channel).
• Tobacco & Alternative Nicotine Products:
  • Cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco.
  • Vapor products (e-cigarettes, e-liquids), oral nicotine pouches.
• Foodservice & Prepared Foods:
  • Hot and cold prepared foods, sandwiches, fresh snacks, coffee programs, roller grill items. This increasingly important category reflects convenience stores’ evolution into mini-foodservice destinations.
• General Merchandise:
  • Automotive products, health & beauty care (HBC) items, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, lighters, batteries, general consumer electronics, phone accessories.
  • Personal care items like hand sanitizers, pain relievers, and personal hygiene products.
• Emerging Products & Novelties:
  • New and innovative products designed to capture impulse buys and cater to evolving consumer tastes (e.g., CBD-infused products, unique snack flavors, functional beverages).
• Store Operations & Technology Solutions:
  • Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: Software and hardware for efficient transactions.
  • Inventory Management & Logistics: Solutions for optimizing warehousing, distribution, and supply chain efficiency.
  • Data Analytics & Business Intelligence: Tools to understand sales trends, consumer behavior, and operational performance.
  • Merchandising & Fixtures: Display solutions, shelving, and in-store marketing materials.
  • Loss Prevention & Security Systems.
  • Payment Processing Solutions.
  • E-commerce & Digital Ordering Platforms.
• Business Services:
  • Financial services, insurance, consulting, trade publications, and association services relevant to distributors and manufacturers.

This broad array ensures that distributors can efficiently source products to stock their warehouses and cater to the diverse needs of their retail clients, while manufacturers can find the right partners to get their products into the hands of consumers across the vast convenience store network.

The Industry’s Pulse: Visitor and Exhibitor Count

The Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX) is a highly targeted event designed for maximum efficiency in business transactions, which is reflected in its attendee and participant profile. While not a massive “public” trade show, it is a crucial gathering of decision-makers.

• Visitor Count: The CDBX attracts a focused and influential audience, primarily comprising wholesale distributors of convenience products. These are the companies responsible for distributing goods to tens of thousands of convenience stores, gas stations, independent grocers, and other retail outlets across the country. While exact public attendance figures aren’t always broadly publicized, the event typically draws hundreds of key decision-makers from these distribution companies. This includes:
  • Owners, Presidents, and CEOs of wholesale distribution companies.
  • Purchasing and Category Management executives responsible for product selection and inventory.
  • Sales and Marketing leaders looking for new products to offer their retail clients.
  • Operations and Supply Chain managers seeking efficiency solutions. The strength of the CDBX lies in the high-level engagement of these attendees, who represent significant buying power within the convenience channel.
• Exhibitor Count: The CDBX features a substantial number of manufacturer and service provider companies looking to connect with these distributors. The format of the event (the “Business Exchange”) means that instead of traditional large booths, there are typically numerous “stations” or tables where manufacturers conduct their pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings with distributors. You can expect to see hundreds of companies participating in these exchanges. These “exhibitors” include:
  • Major national and international manufacturers of confectionery, snacks, beverages, tobacco, and general merchandise.
  • Smaller, emerging brands looking to secure national distribution.
  • Providers of technology and services tailored to the distribution industry (e.g., logistics, inventory software, payment solutions). The highly structured nature of the Business Exchange ensures that manufacturers get dedicated, direct facetime with the distributors they want to meet, making it an incredibly effective platform for forging new partnerships and strengthening existing ones.

This concentrated gathering of key players underscores the CDBX’s importance as the essential event for driving business relationships within the convenience distribution ecosystem.

The Winning Formula: Benefits and Perks of Attending

Attending the Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX) offers a specialized set of benefits and perks, making it an indispensable event for anyone serious about growth in the convenience products industry:

• Unmatched One-on-One Business Opportunities: The flagship “Business Exchange” program is the core advantage. Unlike traditional trade shows, you get pre-scheduled, dedicated 10-minute meetings with decision-makers from target companies. For manufacturers, this means direct access to numerous wholesale distributors. For distributors, it means efficient vetting of new products and suppliers.
• Highly Targeted Audience: The event is specifically designed for the convenience distribution channel. This means every interaction is relevant, saving time and maximizing the potential for meaningful connections and deals.
• Efficient Time Management: The structured appointment system ensures that both buyers and sellers can make the most of their time, completing a high volume of productive meetings within a concise timeframe. No more waiting around for leads or hoping to bump into the right person.
• Industry Insights and Education: Beyond the business meetings, the CDBX typically features “Insight Sessions” and keynote speakers who provide critical updates on market trends, consumer behavior, regulatory changes, and economic forecasts relevant to the convenience distribution sector. This helps attendees stay informed and strategically plan for the future.
• Enhanced Networking: From welcome receptions to daily breakfasts and lunches, the CDBX provides numerous informal opportunities to network with peers, competitors, and potential partners in a more relaxed setting. These conversations can lead to invaluable insights and collaborations.
• Discover Emerging Products & Technologies: Be among the first to see the latest product innovations in candy, snacks, beverages, tobacco alternatives, and general merchandise. Distributors can identify new items to add to their portfolio, while manufacturers can gauge market reception. You can also discover new technologies that streamline operations and improve efficiency.
• Strengthen Existing Relationships: The event is not just for new business; it’s also a crucial opportunity to reinforce relationships with current partners, discuss annual plans, and address any ongoing needs face-to-face.
• Competitive Intelligence: Gain valuable insights into what your competitors are doing, what new products are gaining traction, and how the industry is adapting to new challenges.
• Access to Key Decision-Makers: The CDBX consistently attracts the top executives, buyers, and sales leaders from the most influential distribution companies in North America, making it a high-value environment for direct engagement.

For manufacturers looking to expand their reach and distributors aiming to optimize their product offerings and operational efficiency, the CDBX is a powerhouse event that delivers tangible results and positions participants for sweet success in the dynamic convenience market.

Your Home Away From Home: Nearby Hotels and Convenient Accommodation

Since the Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX) rotates its host city annually, the specific selection of nearby hotels will change each year. However, the Convenience Distribution Association (CDA) typically partners with official host hotels or provides block rates at hotels located close to the convention venue.

General Accommodation Advice for Any Host City: Regardless of the specific city, when the CDBX chooses a major convention center or integrated resort, you can expect the following types of accommodation options:

• Official Host Hotels: The CDA usually designates one or more “official” hotels for the event. These are often connected to the convention center or within very close walking distance, offering maximum convenience. They may also provide special discounted rates for attendees, making them a cost-effective and highly desirable choice.
• Within Walking Distance: In major convention cities, there are usually several hotels within a comfortable walking distance of the main venue, offering various price points and amenities.
• Short Drive / Shuttle Access: Hotels slightly further out may offer more competitive rates and often provide complimentary shuttle services to and from the convention center. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available in most major U.S. cities.
• Diverse Options: From luxury hotels with extensive amenities to more budget-friendly brands, the host cities typically offer a wide range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets.

Key Recommendation:

• Book Early and Through Official Channels: It is highly recommended to book your hotel accommodation as early as possible, as rooms in the host city, especially those near the convention venue, can fill up quickly. Always check the official CDBX website’s “Travel & Hotel” or “Accommodation” section for the most current information, official hotel blocks, and any special booking links or discounts. This ensures you get the best rates and convenient access to the event.

Planning your accommodation in advance is crucial for a smooth and stress-free experience at the CDBX, allowing you to focus on the high-value business opportunities the event provides.

The Investment in Efficiency: Understanding the Cost to Attend

Attending the Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX) represents a strategic investment in the growth and efficiency of businesses within the convenience distribution sector. The cost structure is designed to reflect the high-value, pre-scheduled business meetings that are the hallmark of this event.

• Distributor Registration:
  • For qualified wholesale distributors, registration for the CDBX is typically complimentary or very low-cost. This is a deliberate strategy by the CDA to ensure strong attendance from the buying side, maximizing the value for manufacturers.
  • Furthermore, participating distributors may be eligible for a travel stipend or reimbursement, particularly for key decision-makers, provided they complete a certain number of business exchange meetings. This further reduces the effective cost of attendance for distributors.
• Manufacturer/Supplier Registration (Exhibitors):
  • For manufacturers and suppliers participating in the Business Exchange, the primary cost is their table or meeting space fee. This fee covers their participation in the structured one-on-one meeting program.
  • Pricing varies based on factors such as:
    • Membership Status: CDA members typically receive significantly discounted rates compared to non-members.
    • Number of Participants: Fees may increase with additional representatives from the manufacturing company.
    • Specific Program Inclusions: Some packages might include access to certain educational sessions or additional networking events.
  • While specific numbers can fluctuate, expect fees for manufacturer participation to range from several thousand dollars upwards, depending on the level of engagement and company size.
  • This fee is an investment in direct access to a concentrated group of key distributors, which is invaluable for securing new distribution channels and expanding market reach.
• Non-Exhibiting Supplier/Associate Registration:
  • For suppliers or service providers who wish to attend for networking and insights but are not participating in the Business Exchange as a formal “exhibitor,” there is typically a higher registration fee. This fee is designed to encourage formal participation in the exchange if direct business meetings are the primary goal.
  • These rates can be substantial (e.g., several thousand dollars) and usually do not include access to the one-on-one business exchange meetings.
• What Your Investment Includes: For manufacturers, your investment grants you the unique opportunity for pre-scheduled, focused meetings with a large number of relevant distributors. For distributors, it’s a cost-effective way to review hundreds of new products and connect with suppliers. Both categories benefit from high-level networking and industry insights. Remember to factor in your travel (flights, local transport), accommodation, and dining expenses when budgeting for your trip.

The CDBX’s unique format and pricing structure are designed to facilitate efficient, high-value business interactions that drive growth across the convenience distribution channel.

Your Path to Distribution Dominance: Your Journey to CDBX Begins Here!

The Convenience Distribution Business Exchange (CDBX) is more than just an event; it’s the critical annual meeting point where the convenience products industry converges to forge partnerships, discover innovations, and drive the future of distribution. If your business thrives on getting products into the hands of consumers through the vast convenience channel, then your presence at CDBX is not just an option—it’s a strategic imperative. Come to CDBX and transform opportunities into tangible success.

To learn more about the upcoming Convenience Distribution Business Exchange, explore the program, and secure your participation, visit: cdaweb.net/cdbx