The History Behind Hershey

We are dedicating January to Hershey’s chocolate. This week we will delve into the history that makes the company what it is today.  The company traces back to the 1800s, when Milton Hershey’s caramel company was a success.

In 1894, Hershey’s cocoa was introduced to the public as the first product, and thus the brand was born. Back in the day, chocolate was a luxury that only the wealthy could afford, Milton made it affordable for everyone! To give his employees a better life, Milton then built a town complete with houses, trolley systems, schools, and a zoo, and he created Hersheypark for employees to have some fun.

In 1907 the Hershey’s Kiss was invented.  Each Kiss was hand wrapped in foil… you can imagine how long this would take.

Hershey

Next, Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup allowed children to create their own chocolate milk at home, in 1926. Just a year later, the first s’mores recipe was introduced.

Hershey

Milton passed away in 1945, and his legacy lives on through the brand’s mantra to ‘make happiness happen’.

“One is only happy in proportion as he makes others feel happy” – Milton Hershey

The company purchased Reese’s in 1963, which was founded by a former Hershey’s employee.  Furthermore, who could forget the famous introduction of Reese’s Pieces in E.T. in 1982?

Hershey

The company is the most famous chocolate in America, producing new products and variations of products, including holiday themed candy.  Some other famous additions to the Hershey Company include: Twizzlers, Jolly Ranchers, and York Peppermint Pattie.

Tune in next week to discover the process and ingredients behind the infamous chocolate!

>>Want to carry Hershey’s Chocolate?  New customers, order now!  Existing customers, sign up today.

Source: Hersheys