The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) announced its acquisition of Sour Strips, a fast-rising sour candy brand known for its strong social media presence and bold slogan, “sour candy that doesn’t suck.” This acquisition strengthens Hershey’s position in the sour candy market, reaching new consumer segments and expanding its appeal across various snacking moments.
Founded in 2019 by social media influencer Maxx Chewning, Sour Strips has reinvigorated the sour candy category with its strikingly intense flavors and standout branding. Chewning will continue to lead the brand’s marketing and innovation initiatives.
“The addition of Sour Strips broadens our growing sweets portfolio with a product that resonates deeply with consumers,” said Mike Del Pozzo, President, U.S. Confection, The Hershey Company. “We’re thrilled to welcome Maxx and the Sour Strips team to Hershey as we accelerate our growth in the confectionery space.”
Maxx Chewning, Sour Strips’ Founder, commented, “Joining forces with The Hershey Company is a major step in our mission to redefine the candy category. Hershey’s legacy of creating iconic brands worldwide aligns with our vision for Sour Strips. Together, we’re excited to keep delivering remarkable experiences for candy fans everywhere.”
About The Hershey Company
The Hershey Company (NYSE: HSY) is an industry-leading snacks company known for making more moments of goodness through its iconic brands, remarkable people and enduring commitment to doing the right thing for its people, planet, and communities. Hershey has more than 20,000 employees in the U.S. and worldwide who work daily to deliver delicious, high-quality products. The company has more than 90 brand names in approximately 80 countries that drive more than $11.2 billion in annual revenues, including Hershey’s, Reese’s, Kisses, Kit Kat®, Jolly Rancher, Twizzlers and Ice Breakers, and salty snacks including SkinnyPop, Pirate’s Booty and Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels.
For over 130 years, Hershey has been committed to operating fairly, ethically and sustainably. The candy and snack maker’s founder, Milton Hershey, created Milton Hershey School in 1909, and since then, the company has focused on helping children succeed through equitable access to education.
