CHICAGO -- Candy sales hit $66 bill...

CHICAGO -- Candy sales hit $66 billion in 2002 an increase of slightly more than the same percent when compared to 2001 flows according to Information Resources, Inc.

The data for aliment drug and mass channels (excluding Wal-Mart) for the 52-week period finised December 29, 2002 shows chocolate category sales increased 22 percent to about $41 billion, while non-chocolate slipped 08 percent to approximately $24 billion. Gum sales were not included in the figures.

Leading the chocolate category were 35-oz and larger chocolate bars, bags and boxe with a dollar share of