NEWS
11.04.2024
Happy Halloween from World Business Chicago! This week, we’re celebrating Chicago’s incredible legacy as the nation’s candy and snack capital. Whether you’re handing out treats, indulging yourself, or celebrating with friends, Chicago-made snacks are at the heart of it all. From nostalgic favorites like Tootsie Rolls to trending sensations like Ferrara’s Nerds Gummy Clusters, Chicago-made products are filling candy bowls nationwide.
For over a century, Chicago has been synonymous with candy production. The city’s legacy began with immigrant entrepreneurs and grew into a global powerhouse by the mid-20th century. Today, Chicago’s influence remains unmatched, with iconic brands leading the way:
Chicago’s candy and snack industry employs over 10,000 people and continues to innovate with major investments. With Mars Wrigley’s $42 million R&D hub on Goose Island and Ferrero’s Innovation Center and North America R&D Lab in the historic Marshall Field and Company Building—Chicago is not just leading the way in confectionery but in food innovation at large.
A new survey by Ferrero North America reveals that Halloween has evolved far beyond a children’s celebration. The trend, dubbed “Adultoween,” highlights how more adults are embracing the holiday with nostalgic enthusiasm. The survey of more than 5,000 adults found that:
“Halloween has traditionally been thought of as a children’s holiday, but we’re seeing a growing trend of adults fully embracing it for themselves,” said Neal Finkler, Vice President of Marketing for Ferrero. The Ferrero portfolio—featuring nostalgic favorites like Butterfinger, CRUNCH, and Baby Ruth—plays a major role in this trend, allowing adults to relive fond childhood memories while indulging in modern treats like Kinder Joy Glow-in-the-Dark Eggs and Tic Tac Trick or Treat packs.
One standout story comes from Ferrara Candy Company, the Chicago-based creators of Nerds Gummy Clusters. The innovative twist on the classic Nerds candy has become a sensation. Since its launch, the product has skyrocketed in popularity—achieving $800 million in sales last year and even making a Super Bowl ad debut. The product’s journey reflects Chicago’s ongoing impact on food innovation and demonstrates the city’s ability to reinvent and lead trends. Read more via New York Times.
This Halloween, join us in celebrating Chicago’s sweet legacy. Whether you’re trick-or-treating, hosting an “Adultoween” party, or simply indulging in your favorite snack, make sure to choose local treats made in Chicagoland. Snap a photo of your Chicago-made candy and share it on social media using the hashtag #ChicagoMadeCandyAndSnacks.
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