Hershey Acquires Sour Strips Candy Brand

The fast-growing brand has a big social media presence, having been founded by social media personality Maxx Chewning.

Kristen Kazarian, Managing Editor

November 11, 2024

1 Min Read
Hershey also owns Jolly Rancher and Twizzler
Sour Strips will meld into a broad candy portfolio with the likes of Jolly Rancher and Twizzler.The Hershey Co.

The Hershey Co. has added to its candy portfolio with the acquisition of Sour Strips, a popular brand due to its social media presence.

The acquisition enhances Hershey's presence in the category and expands its reach to new consumers for more snacking occasions.

"The acquisition of Sour Strips expands Hershey's offerings within our growing sweets portfolio with a product that is beloved by consumers," said Mike Del Pozzo, president of US Confection, The Hershey Co. "We're energized to welcome Maxx and the Sour Strips team to Hershey as we relentlessly accelerate our growth in sweets."

Sour Strips has amassed over 400,000 followers across all platforms, with a tagline, "Sour candy that doesn't suck." Popular flavors include blue raspberry, strawberry, rainbow, cotton candy, watermelon, and more.

Founded in 2019 by social media personality Maxx Chewning, Sour Strips set out to invigorate the sour candy category with a distinctive product that combines shockingly sour flavors with innovative branding to elevate the candy experience. Chewning will continue to lead marketing and innovation efforts for the brand, a Hershey's press release stated.

"Our partnership with The Hershey Company represents a significant step in our mission to innovate and set new standards within the Confection category," said Maxx Chewning, Founder of Sour Strips. "Hershey's exceptional track record making iconic brands worldwide aligns perfectly with our vision for Sour Strips. Together with Hershey, our team is excited to continue delivering extraordinary experiences to candy enthusiasts around the globe."  

Related:Fresh Express Acquires Produce Processor / Wholesaler

About the Author

Kristen Kazarian

Managing Editor

Kristen Kazarian has been a writer and editor for more than three decades. She has worked at several consumer magazines and B2B publications in the fields of food and beverage, packaging, processing, women's interest, local news, health and nutrition, fashion and beauty, automotive, and IT.

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