Farley’s & Sathers Candy Co. has announced its decision to move from a combination of broker/direct sales network to a fully direct sales organization.

Steve Luitjens, senior vice president of sales and marketing, stated that “the ‘blurring’ of trade channels that currently exists and the speed in which new products are introduced to the market will be more effectively addressed by utilizing direct sales.”

Farley’s & Sathers reported that it was canceling its broker agreements effective Sept. 30, 2005.

Looking for something unique and fun for a holiday gift? Eat It! Snacks & Sweets Trivia Game may be the answer. This new board game features trivia about yummy food categories including chocolate, candy, cookies, ice cream, desserts and snacks.

The game was launched in February at the Toy Fair Trade Show, where it reportedly received an enthusiastic reception. The company reports receiving orders from retailers including Target.com, ToysRUs.com, Jewel-Osco stores and many others.

The Hershey Company has announced that its U.S. Confections and Snack business is realigning its marketing communications agencies.

The realignment includes a new relationship with Arnold Worldwide, the expansion of Hershey’s relationship with North Castle Partners, and the shifting of communications assignments from Hershey’s current agencies, Ogilvy & Mather and DDB. Arnold Worldwide will be responsible for creating fully integrated advertising and marketing programs for core chocolate brands. North Castle Partners will provide marketing programs for all of Hershey’s refreshment and sugar confectionery brands, key snack brands, and the newly acquired Scharffen Berger and Joseph Schmidt premium chocolate.

Donald Houston has joined the Customer and Brand Development Division of Just Born as brand manager for the Mike and Ike and Hot Tamales candy brands. He will report to Matt Pye, who is marketing director. Houston’s career path to date includes positions with Schick and Unilever Best Foods.