Perrigo Co. and Ferrara Candy Co. announced that Perrigo’s Nutritionals division has partnered with Ferrara to manufacture store-brand gummy vitamins and dietary supplements that will be available in major retailers across the U.S.

The five-year supply agreement gives Perrigo exclusive rights to produce a line of store brand gummy vitamins, minerals and supplemental products using Ferrara’s gummy technology and manufacturing capabilities.

"We are excited to announce the addition of a full assortment of children's and adult multivitamins, calcium, fiber, heart health and letter vitamins to our store-brand portfolio,” says Joseph Papa, chairman and ceo, Perrigo. “This strategic supplier relationship extends our company's reach into a financially attractive and expansive gummy market."

IRI multi-outlet data says sales of vitamins and supplemental gummies totals $625 million with a forecast to reach $1 billion by 2017.

This supply agreement joins the manufacturing capabilities of Ferrara, one of the leading gummy manufacturers, and Perrigo’s pharmaceutical expertise. Beginning in 1887 as a packager of home remedies, Perrigo has become a top global healthcare supplier.

 "We are pleased to partner with Perrigo as we extend the strength of Ferrara's manufacturing capabilities and technologies into a new, growing market," says Todd Siwak, ceo, Ferrara. "Healthy living has become a bigger focus for more and more Americans, and the application of our gummy technology to vitamins and dietary supplements is another example of Ferrara evolving its offerings to capitalize on this trend.”