The Hershey Company, commonly known as Hershey’s, is an American multinational company and one of the largest chocolate manufacturers in the world. It also manufactures baked products, such as cookies and cakes, and sells beverages like milkshakes, and many more that are produced globally. Its headquarters are in Hershey, Pennsylvania, which is also home to Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World.
The company’s milestones:
-In 1876, when Milton was only eighteen-years-old, he opened his own candy shop in Philadelphia. However, the shop was closed after six years and Milton moved to Denver, Colorado, where he worked with a caramel manufacturer and learned caramel-making.
– In 1886, Milton Hershey moved back to Lancaster, Pennsylvania and started the successful Lancaster Caramel Company.
– In 1894, Milton Hershey incorporates the Lancaster Caramel Company and establishes Hershey Chocolate Company as a subsidiary.
– In 1900, the company launches of Hershey’s Milk Chocolate bars. Milton Hershey also sold LCC and retains Hershey Chocolate Company to continue its focus on chocolate. Introduction of Hershey’s Milk Chocolate.
– In 1907, Hershey begins manufacturing Hershey’s Chocolate Kisses.
– In 1909, Milton and Catherine Hershey signed the Deed of Trust for The Hershey Industrial School which would become the Milton Hershey School.
– In 1918, Milton Hershey places the assets of Hershey Chocolate Company in the trust fund of Milton Hershey School.
– In 1925, the company launched of Mr. Goodbar.
– In 1927, Hershey is traded on the NYSE.
– From 1930 – 1945, the Great Works Project – created jobs during Depression building most iconic landmarks of Hershey during this time (Hershey Park, Theatre, Hershey Hotel) & created Ration D bar (World War II service).
– In 1971, Hershey’s Tropical Bar was sent to the moon with Apollo 15 Astronauts.
– In 1973, Hershey’s Chocolate World, the first retail center, opens.
– In 1979, Hershey achieves $1 billion in annual sales.
– In 1996, the acquisition of LEAF, Inc. Products adds 40 new brands to the portfolio including Jolly Rancher, Whoppers, Milk Duds, Good & Plenty, Pay Day, Heath, Rainblo and Super Bubble.
– In 2000, Hershey is a founding member of the World Cocoa Foundation and begins investment in West Africa to support cocoa farmers and improve cacao agriculture.
– In 2003, launched sugar free versions of Hershey’s chocolate candy and Reese’s peanut butter cups.
– In 2008, Hershey reaches $5 billion in sales.
– In 2012, the Hershey Company named to The Civic 50 as one of America’s most community-minded companies.
– In 2012, the Hershey Company introduces a new corporate logo.
– In 2016, Hershey’s Chocolate World welcomes its 100th millionth visitor.
– In 2019, CEO Michele Buck introduces Innovative Snacking Powerhouse.
– In 2021, the Hershey Company was recognized by The Civic 50 for the ninth consecutive year as one of America’s most community-minded companies.
According to thehersheycompany.com;en.wikipedia.org.
