Hershey Getting Fat from SkinnyPop

The Hershey Company has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire two manufacturing plants from Weaver Popcorn Manufacturing, a leader in popcorn production and co-packing, and a co-manufacturer of Hershey's SkinnyPop brand.

Through the deal, Hershey will acquire Weaver's operations in Bethlehem, PA and Whitestown, IN. The acquisition is designed to enable the company to sustain strong growth for its popular popcorn brand by strengthening internal supply chain capabilities in combination with its network of strategic suppliers and co-manufacturers.

"Hershey has experienced tremendous growth over the past few years, stemming from a combination of successful strategy execution and an increase in more snacking occasions among consumers," said Kristen Riggs, president, Salty Snacks, The Hershey Company. "In fact, SkinnyPop has been number one in retail sales growth for ready-to-eat popcorn over the last three years."

The two new facilities will offer more flexibility, agility, and resiliency across the company's growing salty snacks supply chain network. Just one year ago, Hershey acquired Pretzels Inc. to expand its salty snacks manufacturing capabilities.

"In response to consumer snacking trends, we continue to evolve our supply chain, making significant investments in the size, scale and capabilities of our network, improving resiliency while we continue to strengthen existing supplier relationships," said Jason Reiman, chief supply chain officer, The Hershey Co. "Our acquisition of Weaver's two facilities is a perfect example of how we're investing to bring added capacity and strength across our portfolio of brands well into the future."

Like Hershey, Weaver has a strong manufacturing heritage, going back nearly a century. As a family-owned and operated company, over the last 90+ years, Weaver has developed into a vertically integrated business, delivering a broad array of popcorn products globally. The company now operates three independent entities, including Weaver Popcorn Manufacturing.

"Participating in the growth of SkinnyPop has been a rewarding experience for our team members," remarked Jason Kashman, chief executive officer, Weaver Popcorn. "Hershey is acquiring two best-in-class popcorn manufacturing operations that will enable continued growth in volume and quality, with teams at each location that have an unrivaled expertise."