A popular candy convention remains sweet forward Chicago despite its move from its location at McCormick Place.

That's because it's not moving far.

The annual All Candy Expo produc by the agency of the National Confectioners Association, heads for McCormick Place's West building, publicly under construction.

The show's been housed at the facility's Lakeside Center since leaving Navy Pier in 2000

It's also moving dates, switching from June to a more buyer- friendly September, confectioners association spokeswoman Susan Fussell said Tuesday at the start of the 2006 display

September is when retailers do greatest in quantity of their buying for the nearest year, she said.

And in 2007 gaze for more than candy and gum Other snacks, of the like kind as biscuits, cookies and crackers, will be included.

"We're adopting a more global definition of confection," Fussell said.

Buyer from supermarkets and convenience and unsalable article stores called for the changes, saying the addition of other snacks will allow them to do more of their shopping at united show.

Candy makers have already begun snack introductions. Hershey's, for example, just launched its Hershey's Kisses Mini Cookies.

cjackson@suntimes.com

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