When you think of chocolate, chances are you think of Hershey’s. Known for its iconic milk chocolate bars, Hershey has become a household name and one of the most successful candy brands in the world. But how did it all begin, and what makes Hershey’s so universally loved? Let’s take a deeper dive into the sweet history of Hershey chocolate and the visionary behind it.
The story of Hershey’s starts with a man named Milton S. Hershey, a man who, despite facing multiple setbacks, refused to give up on his dream of creating the perfect chocolate. Born in 1857 in Pennsylvania, Milton’s first venture into the candy business came in 1873 when he opened a small candy shop in the heart of Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, the shop failed, but Hershey’s determination was just beginning to take shape.
Not one to back down, Hershey moved to Chicago in an attempt to start anew. His second candy business, however, also failed to gain traction. But Hershey’s resolve remained strong. He took one more shot at establishing a successful venture by opening another shop in New York. Again, this attempt was unsuccessful, leaving Hershey with three failed businesses under his belt.
Despite these early failures, Hershey didn’t give up. Instead, he returned to Pennsylvania and founded the Lancaster Caramel Company in 1883. This time, success followed. The company prospered, and by 1896, Hershey was ready to take the next step: he built a milk-processing plant with the aim of perfecting his chocolate-making process. This decision proved pivotal in the company’s evolution, as it set the foundation for what would become one of the world’s leading chocolate brands.
In 1899, Hershey perfected what would later be known as the “Hershey Process,” a method that revolutionized the way chocolate was made. This breakthrough enabled Hershey to create smoother, creamier milk chocolate, setting his product apart from the competition. By 1900, he introduced the now-iconic Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar, which would go on to become a favorite among chocolate lovers everywhere.
A Chocolate Empire Begins
In 1903, Milton Hershey sold his Lancaster Caramel Company for $1 million, a sum that allowed him to focus entirely on expanding his chocolate-making operations. He built a massive new chocolate plant, a state-of-the-art facility that would bring his dreams to life. The Hershey brand began to take off, with the milk chocolate bar at its core.
Then in 1907, Hershey introduced an even more innovative product: the Hershey’s Kiss. These bite-sized chocolate treats became an instant sensation, and to this day, around 70 million Kisses are produced daily!
Expanding the Hershey Brand
But Hershey wasn’t done yet. Over the years, he introduced several more popular products, each adding a new layer to the Hershey legacy. In 1926, he launched the Mr. Goodbar, a milk chocolate bar mixed with peanuts, and in 1927, he introduced Hershey’s Syrup—a product that became a pantry staple in homes across the world.
The 1930s saw the arrival of the Crackle bar, which combined milk chocolate with crispy rice, offering yet another irresistible treat for chocolate lovers.
Hershey’s expansion didn’t stop with new products. The company quickly recognized the value of growth through acquisition. In 1948, Hershey acquired the rights to M&M’s, one of the most beloved candy brands. Later, in 1969, Hershey gained the license to market and sell two other major candy brands: Rolo and Kit-Kat.
But perhaps one of the most significant milestones in Hershey’s history occurred in 1988, when the company received the rights to sell and market Cadbury chocolate in the United States. This deal solidified Hershey’s position as a global powerhouse in the candy industry.
Fast-forward to today, and Hershey’s stands as the largest chocolate manufacturer in the world. Beyond the Hershey bar and Kisses, the company owns several major candy brands, including Reese’s, Jolly Ranchers, Twizzlers, SkinnyPop, and more. With a net worth of approximately $38 billion, Hershey’s continues to dominate the candy industry and expand its reach.
Hershey’s success has even extended to theme parks. Hersheypark, a popular amusement park located in Hershey, Pennsylvania, draws millions of visitors each year, offering an immersive experience for chocolate lovers of all ages.
The Legacy of Milton Hershey
Milton S. Hershey passed away in 1945, but his impact on the world of candy lives on. His journey from failure to success, driven by his unwavering passion for chocolate, laid the foundation for a company that has become synonymous with sweet indulgence. Thanks to his vision, the Hershey brand continues to delight millions around the world, bringing joy with every bite.