Where confectionery countlines seem to regard brand extensions and limited editions as the major elements of innovation, sugar confectionery is looking dynamic these days. There are core brand developments and extensions of course, such as Mars adding new limited edition tropical chews and Joosters to its Starburst portfolio and a Skittles 10p bag range targeted at the under-12s. Swizzels Matlow has also boosted its big names and now numbers Drumstick lollies, Refresher and Drumstick Chews and Sweet & Sour Strawberry & Apple and Banana & Blackcurrant Double Dips among its ranks. It has also brought out Space Pebbles ­ chewy, strawberry and orange or crunchy sour apple and cola flavour balls. Ryne Confectionery hopes its new Spanish signing, the sugar products range Fini, will grab a share of kids' pocket money. The range includes such challenging delicacies as: Horror Teeth; Jelly Worms; Magic Carpets; Spanish Liquorice and Foam Teeth. Barnack's Look-o-Look range has more traditional sounding offerings in Edible Paper, Strawberry Laces, Flying Saucers and Fizzy Lollies. Leaf continues to maintain interest in its Chewits brand and has added popcorn, which is only its second non-fruit flavour. {{FOCUS SPECIALS }}

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