Happy Halloween! World Business Chicago is spotlighting the city’s vital role in supplying America’s favorite seasonal treats. Known as a powerhouse in candy and snack production, Chicago fills trick-or-treat bags nationwide with beloved brands, including Tootsie Rolls, Fannie May, Lemonheads, and the iconic Chicago Mix popcorn.
Chicago’s candy legacy began in the early 20th century, driven by European immigrant entrepreneurs, and by 1940, the city produced over 556 million pounds of candy annually. Companies like Wrigley, Ferrara, Mars, and Brach’s helped cement Chicago’s reputation as America’s candy capital with enduring classics like Lemonheads, Tootsie Rolls, and Juicy Fruit Gum.
Today, popular Halloween candies produced by Chicago-based manufacturers, such as M&Ms, Snickers, and Skittles, rank among America’s top treats, with candy sales expected to contribute to a projected $11.6 billion in Halloween spending this year.
Chicago’s top candy and snack companies include:
- Ferrara Candy Company – Home of Lemonheads, Nerds, and Atomic Fireballs.
- Mondelēz International – Iconic brands like Oreo, Ritz, and Sour Patch Kids.
- Mars Wrigley – Creators of Starburst, Skittles, and Juicy Fruit.
- Tootsie Roll Industries – Known for Tootsie Rolls and Tootsie Pops.
- Ferrero – Makers of Butterfinger, Baby Ruth, and CRUNCH in Illinois.
- Blommer Chocolate – Supplier of cocoa ingredients for major candy brands.
- Jays Foods – Known for O-Ke-Doke popcorn and potato chips.
- Garrett Popcorn Shops – Famous for its Chicago Mix of caramel and cheese popcorn.
Together, these companies employ over 10,000 workers, fueling the local economy and reinforcing Chicago’s influence in the food industry. Recent investments, such as Mars’ $42 million R&D hub on Goose Island, and Ferrero’s Innovation Center, highlight Chicago’s continued leadership in food innovation and natural snacks, with brands like Simple Mills and SkinnyPop rising in popularity.
Beyond Halloween, these brands contribute to Chicago’s economy year-round, creating jobs and inspiring community pride as the city remains at the forefront of the sweet and savory industry.
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