NCSA Names 2026 Candy Hall of Fame Inductees; Michael Rosenberg to Receive Distinguished Service Award

Press Release February 26, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For More Information: Tamara Davis, 270.202.8516, tdavis@priceweber.com

Inductees will be honored October 22–24 in Orlando, Florida

CLEVELAND, Ohio (Feb. 26, 2026) – The NCSA is proud to announce the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2026 and the recipient of the NCSA Distinguished Service Award.  Induction into the Candy Hall of Fame is one of the highest honors in the confectionery industry.

The new class will be formally inducted during the Association’s 127th Annual Meeting, October 22-24, 2026, at the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek in Orlando, Florida. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, October 24.

Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2026 inductees are:

  • Allison Miazga-Bedrick, Mars Snacking
  • Dale Buys, The Walt Disney Company
  • Michael Flynn, Stribbons, Inc.
  • Juan Gallicchio, Thayer Distribution (posthumous)
  • Tim Galloway, Galloway Company
  • Debra Harris, Shankman & Associates, Inc.
  • Taz Murray, Murray Asset Management
  • Katherine Phegley, Brown & Haley
  • Kaye Powell, S. Abraham & Sons, Inc.
  • Michael Sitarz, Elmer Chocolate
  • Alan Yarmaloff, CVS Health

“Congratulations to the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2026,” said Byard Ebling, NCSA President. “This year’s inductees represent the very best of our industry — visionary leaders, innovators and mentors who have strengthened the confectionery community through decades of dedication and service. We look forward to celebrating their extraordinary careers with family, friends, and colleagues this October in Orlando.”

Since 1971, the Candy Hall of Fame has recognized lifetime career achievements in the confectionery industry. Candy Hall of Fame members come from all disciplines within the industry and must have at least 20 years of service to confectionery (buyers must have at least 10 years of experience) and be 50 years of age at the time of nomination. Honorees demonstrate loyalty to building and supporting the confectionery industry through active participation beyond the scope of their professional responsibilities.

Michael Rosenberg Named 2026 Distinguished Service Award Recipient

In addition to honoring the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2026, the NCSA will present its 2026 Distinguished Service Award to Michael Rosenberg, President & CEO of PIM Brands, Inc., in recognition of his decades of leadership, service and lasting impact on the association.

Rosenberg founded The Promotion In Motion Cos., Inc. in 1979 while still a student at American University. As President and CEO, he has led the company’s evolution into PIM Brands, one of North America’s fastest-growing snack and confectionery manufacturers and a global leader in chocolate-covered confections.

A steadfast advocate for industry involvement, Rosenberg has devoted significant time and leadership to NCSA initiatives. He serves on the association’s Manufacturer Advisory Council and works closely with the Board of Directors, offering counsel and guidance. He was instrumental in bringing The Kettle Award under the NCSA and is a member of the Kettle Club, ensuring the enduring legacy of this prestigious honor.

“The confectionery industry has always been more than a business to Michael — it’s a lifelong commitment,” said Ebling. “From founding his company as a young entrepreneur to leading one of the industry’s most dynamic organizations, he has consistently paired innovation and growth with meaningful service. Michael has given his time, expertise and leadership to strengthen the NCSA. His impact spans generations, and we are proud to recognize him with the NCSA Distinguished Service Award.”

A 2013 inductee into the Candy Hall of Fame, the 2011 recipient of the NCA’s Doc Reed Silver Candy Dish Award, and the 2015 Kettle Award recipient, Rosenberg continues to champion industry collaboration, mentorship and education. He is also founder and chairman of the American Museum of Candy History, preserving the rich heritage of confectionery for future generations.

Rosenberg will be honored alongside the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2026 during the NCSA’s 127th Annual Meeting in October in Orlando.

Registration information for the 2026 Candy Hall of Fame will be available in early summer. For more details about the NCSA, and to be notified when registration opens, visit www.candyhalloffame.org.

About the NCSA
The National Confectionery Sales Association (NCSA), formed in 1899, is dedicated to Recognition, Fellowship, Education and Mentoring. The NCSA administers the Candy Hall of Fame, the Kettle Awards and the IMPACT Award. The Candy Hall of Fame was founded in 1971, and recognizes lifetime career achievements in the confectionery industry, with induction based on dedication to the overall betterment of the industry. Established in 1946 by industry publisher Don Gussow, the Kettle Awards annually recognize a deserving individual working within the U.S. confectionery manufacturing industry.

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