Tuesday, May 8, 2007

U.S. energy demands increase. What does that mean for your company?

NCA's utility savings provider, Affiliated Power Purchasers International, reported recently that demand for crude oil and natural gas was higher than expected this winter. Will that increased demand impact the amount your company pays in energy costs this summer and into the fall?

APPI reports that while supply/demand ratios will stay tight over the next 12 months, 2007 is projected to be a year for fairly moderate energy prices that should remain below the post-hurricane highs that punctuated 2005.

Find out how NCA Members can reduce the costs of energy, utility and telecommunications services by working with APPI to identify and implement a variety of options.

NCA Expands Contacts in Illinois State Capitol

I recently had the chance to visit Springfield, Ill. for a State Outreach Trip. In Springfield, I met with several associations who would be allies to the industry in any legislative efforts in the state, including those representing Retail Merchants, Food Retailers, Convenience Stores, Candy & Tobacco Distributors, Vending, Soft Drink, Petroleum Marketers, Principals and School Administrators. I also stopped by almost 30 offices of legislators who represent NCA members to let them know of their candy constituents.

Monday, May 7, 2007

NCA Posts FAQs from consumers about the FDA standards of indentity for chocolate

Recently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration received a petition requesting modernization of food standards of identity which could have an impact on chocolate. In response to media reports and what is clearly some confusion from consumers about the petition and the complicated regulatory process, NCA posted answers to more than 20 commonly asked questions about the issue on our consumer Web site.

NCA was not a signatory on the petition and is not advocating for or against the petition. Our Members hold a variety of positions about this issue. However, it’s important to provide a fair and balanced look at the petition and what it asks for, what it would mean for the chocolate and confectionery industries, and why some companies and individuals support or oppose the petition.

Read the FAQs.

Monday, April 9, 2007

Great News in Maryland

The Maryland State Legislature ended its 2007 session without voting on a measure that would set a new state level for acceptable lead content lower than the federal limit. NCA has opposed states trying to adopt their own regulations concerning lead because of the confusion for manufacturers and consumers alike.

The legislature is on recess until January 2008.

- Steve Lodge