As the distinction between snacks and confections continues to soften, manufacturers are leveraging this classic combination to create new products and experiences that appeal to consumers in different ways.
San Francisco-based specialty retailer Lolli & Pops has spread its sweet stock into the Southwest by opening a store in Albuquerque, N.M. this month, kicking off a drive to double the chain’s number of locations by the end of 2018.
Askinosie Chocolate has introduced a new single-origin chocolate bar — the 72% Zamora, Amazonia Bar — marking the Springfield, Mo.-based chocolate company’s second partnership with a female-led farmer group
Swiss chocolate production equipment manufacturer Bühler Group has acquired the Haas Group, a century-old Austrian manufacturer of wafer, biscuit and confectionery production systems.
Swiss chocolate and cocoa products manufacturer Barry Callebaut will acquire the ingredients division of Pennsylvania-based Gertrude Hawk Chocolates, allowing Barry Callebaut to expand its specialties and decorations business in North America.
1-800-Flowers.com, Inc. plans to hire approximately 8,000 seasonal employees as the company’s gourmet food brands prepare for the 2017 holiday shopping season.