Last updated 2 months ago | Originally Published: August 16, 2024

The Hershey Company, established in 1894 by Milton S. Hershey, is a leading force in the global confectionery market. Renowned for its chocolate bars, candies, and other snack products, Hershey’s commitment to quality has solidified its reputation as a leader in the industry. The company’s portfolio includes some of the most beloved brands worldwide, such as Hershey’s, Reese’s, Kit Kat, and Twizzlers, significantly influencing the sweet treats sector.

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Brand Overview

The roots of The Hershey Company are deeply embedded in the ideals of innovation and philanthropy. Milton Hershey established a company and a community in Hershey, Pennsylvania. This commitment is reflected in its products’ enduring quality and popularity, as well as responsible business practices.

Brand Milestones:

  • 1894: Milton Hershey founds the company in Pennsylvania, originally focusing on caramel products.
  • 1900: Introduction of the iconic Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bar.
  • 1907: Hershey’s Kisses debut, which becomes the company’s signature product.
  • 1927: The introduction of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, which later becomes part of the Hershey family.
  • 1970: Hershey expands internationally, starting in Canada and then moving into more than 60 countries.
  • 1988: Acquisition of the U.S. confectionery operations of the Leaf Group, including brands like Jolly Rancher and PayDay.
  • 2005: Hershey acquires the Berkeley-based artisan chocolate company Scharffen Berger.
  • 2015: Hershey commits to using simple and understandable ingredients, reflecting healthier, transparent options.
  • 2020: Launch of Hershey’s plant-based chocolates as part of its sustainability and health-oriented product innovations.
  • 2023: Release of the 2023 ESG Report, highlighting Hershey’s ongoing sustainability efforts
  • 2024: Hershey announces a significant expansion in its sustainability initiatives, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050

Brands by Hershey

Hershey is responsible for a diverse array of candy favorites that just about everyone loves! If you’d like to purchase any of these brands, cleck on any link in the list and check out all our choices here at Candy Retailer!

  • Hershey’s: Offers a range of products from milk to dark chocolates.
  • Reese’s: Known for the perfect combination of chocolate and peanut butter.
  • Kit Kat: A popular brand known for its crispy wafers covered in milk chocolate.
  • Twizzlers: Produces a variety of flavored licorice treats.
  • Almond Joy: Features coconut and almonds covered in milk chocolate.
  • Mounds: Similar to Almond Joy, but without the nuts and coated in dark chocolate.
  • York Peppermint Pattie: Delivers a burst of peppermint encased in dark chocolate.
  • 5TH AVENUE: Offers a crunchy peanut butter center covered in rich chocolate.
  • Heath: Combines English toffee with smooth milk chocolate.
  • Milk Duds: Chewy caramel coated in a milk chocolate shell.
  • Mr. Goodbar: Features roasted peanuts embedded in creamy milk chocolate.
  • PayDay: A unique bar with a salted peanut coating over a caramel center.
  • ROLO: Caramel-filled chocolates wrapped in a smooth, rich chocolate shell.
  • Skor: Crisp butter toffee coated in rich milk chocolate.
  • Whatchamacallit: Crispy peanut-flavored crisp topped with caramel and chocolate.
  • Whoppers: Crunchy malted milk balls coated in chocolate.
  • Zagnut: A peanut butter and toasted coconut candy bar.
  • Zero: Features caramel, peanut, and almond nougat covered in white fudge.
  • Breath Savers: Refreshing mints that provide long-lasting, fresh breath.
  • Bubble Yum: A soft and chewy bubble gum available in various flavors.
  • Good & Plenty: A classic licorice candy coated in a hard candy shell.
  • Ice Breakers: Mints and gum are known for intense flavor and freshness.
  • Jolly Rancher: Hard candy with bold, long-lasting fruit flavors.

Everyone Has a Favorite/ The Hershey Company

Brand Growth

Over the past several years, The Hershey Company has demonstrated impressive growth and resilience despite facing challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices and dynamic market conditions. In 2019, Hershey reported annual net sales of approximately $7.986 billion. 

By 2023, this figure had grown significantly to $11.2 billion, marking a notable increase driven by strategic acquisitions and a strong focus on expanding its product portfolio. The company has particularly excelled in growing its core confectionery business while scaling its salty snacks division, including acquiring and integrating popular brands like Pirate’s Booty and Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels.

In addition to expanding its product offerings, Hershey has also focused on profitable international growth. From 2020 to 2023, Hershey saw strong sales increases in markets such as India and Brazil. This international expansion has been complemented by successful product launches and marketing strategies tailored to local tastes. 

Hershey’s ability to adapt to different markets while maintaining consistent brand integrity has been a key driver of its revenue growth. The company’s revenue from its international markets grew, reinforcing Hershey’s global market penetration and brand diversification strategy.

Moreover, Hershey’s commitment to sustainability and innovation has played a crucial role in its growth trajectory. The company’s investment in digital transformation, exemplified by the appointment of its first Chief Technology Officer in 2023, has enhanced its operational efficiency and consumer engagement. 

Hershey’s innovation pipeline continues to deliver, with new product launches like Reese’s Caramel Big Cup, which quickly became the top candy innovation in the market. Looking forward, Hershey aims to continue this momentum by further expanding its digital footprint, reducing its environmental impact, and exploring new growth opportunities in both established and emerging markets.

Brand Specialties

The Hershey Company is renowned for its high-quality confectionery products and its multifaceted contributions to the community and lifestyle, cementing its status as a pioneer in the confectionery industry and beyond. The brand’s commitment to innovation, community enrichment, and ethical practices makes it a standout in its field.

  1. World-Renowned Chocolates: Hershey is globally recognized for producing some of the finest chocolate in the world. It is known for its rich, smooth texture and consistently high-quality ingredients, which cater to chocolate lovers everywhere.
  2. Milton Hershey School: Founded in 1909 by Milton Hershey as part of his philanthropic endeavors, the Milton Hershey School provides free education and living facilities for children in financial need. This institution exemplifies Hershey’s commitment to social responsibility and educational support.
  3. Hersheypark: Initially created by Milton Hershey as leisure grounds for his employees, Hersheypark has grown into one of the leading family theme parks in the United States, attracting visitors with its amusement rides, entertainment, and chocolate-themed attractions.
  4. Hershey’s Chocolate World is a popular visitor attraction that offers a behind-the-scenes tour of Hershey’s chocolate-making process. This immersive experience showcases the company’s history and chocolate production process.
  5. Community Initiatives: Beyond its corporate successes, Hershey is deeply involved in various community outreach programs, including global sustainability projects aimed at enhancing the lives of cocoa farmers and local initiatives to improve the communities where their facilities are located.
  6. Innovative Product Lines: Hershey continuously innovates its product offerings beyond traditional chocolates. This includes various snack options, seasonal specials, and collaborations with other brands to meet diverse consumer tastes and preferences.

Learn More About The Hershey Company

For further insights into The Hershey Company’s operations, history, and initiatives, explore these resources:

  1. Website: For more information about their products, corporate responsibility efforts, and the latest news: https://www.thehersheycompany.com/
  2. Wikipedia: Detailed background on The Hershey Company’s historical timeline and product offerings: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Hershey_Company
  3. Crunchbase: Financial and business details on Hershey’s market activities and acquisitions: https://www.crunchbase.com/organization/the-hershey-company
  4. LinkedIn: Connect with The Hershey Company on LinkedIn for professional updates and opportunities: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hershey-company
  5. Instagram: Follow Hershey on Instagram for engaging brand content and updates: https://www.instagram.com/hersheycompany/
  6. YouTube: Discover Hershey’s brand stories and more through their official YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/hersheys
  7. Facebook: Connect with The Hershey Company on Facebook for community engagement and brand-related content: https://www.facebook.com/HersheyCompany/
  8. X (formerly Twitter): Follow Hershey on X for the latest updates and conversations: https://x.com/Hersheys
  9. Candy Retailer: Explore and purchase a wide range of Hershey’s products at Candy Retailer: https://www.candyretailer.com/StoreDetails.aspx/Candy/Hersheys-Candy/

These resources provide an in-depth look at Hershey’s operations, history, and market presence, offering valuable insights for those interested in the company’s impact on the global confectionery industry.

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