Cornelis J. Boon

Class of 2010

A 35-year veteran of the candy business, Cornelis J. Boon, who goes by Cees, says dedicating time to the industry, clients and association meetings has helped him stay ahead throughout his career.

Born November 8, 1944, to Ari and Gerritdina, in Barneveld, Netherlands, he also has a sister, Gerritdina. He attended high school and college in Wageningen, Holland, and earned his degree in business management and languages. He started working as a management trainee at Curacao Trading Co., in Mozambique, Africa, in 1967. That same year, he married Yolanda in Bilthoven, Holland, and together they have three children: Martin, Arjen and Minke.

He began his career in the confectionery industry in 1976 selling cocoa powder as export manager for Europe/North Africa at Holland-based Wessanen Cocoa. In 1980, he was transferred to the U.S. as sales manager for Wessanen Oils in New Jersey, tasked with setting up a specialty fats and oils division.

When the company was sold in 1990, he established Boon Inc., an industrial ingredients representation company supporting suppliers of confections and baked goods. Through his work he came to be a national representative for companies including Palatinit Inc. and Silesias Flavors, Inc. In 1998, he became vice-president of sales and marketing for New Jersey-based Beneo-Palatinit Inc.

Active in the industry, Cees served as chairman of the Kettle Committee from 1992 to 1993 and sat on the National Confectioners Association Supplier Advisory Committee from 1992 to 1998, and 2005 to 2008, acting as vice-chairman from 2008 to 2010, and is currently its chairman. The NCA honored Cees with its Distinguished Associate Award in 1992.

He thanks Candy Hall of Fame member Ross Bainbridge for encouraging him to participate on the NCA Supplier Advisory Committee early in his career in the U.S. He says the committee offered industry exposure and gave him a chance to get closer to customers while gaining insight into the business.

His hobbies include traveling and experiencing great food and wine, as well as watching tennis and World Cup soccer. He also loves spending time with his grandchildren, Olivia, Emma and Tallia.

Cees passed away on January 24, 2024.