Woodstock Candy Blog

Gumby

2008-11-19T12:19:00.000-08:00

Remember the popular green character Gumby? Gumby has been around for decades. Art Clokey who was a student at the University of Southern California in 1953 dreamed up the character. Gumby has starred in short films, movies and television. There was even a Gumby video game. But, now Gumby is starring at Woodstockcandy.com. We have this memorable character in stock.

The holiday season is right around the corner. Our Gumby Toy would be a great stocking stuffer for many in your family. This popular character will bring back loads of memories from their childhood. This 6 inch toy comes in a sealed, original box. It is great for collectors, or anyone that wants to relieve some childhood toy memories.

Bringing old toys back from the past is a great way to put a smile on the face of your loved one. There are plenty of reasons to bring back excellent childhood memories. Perhaps you would like to introduce a child to the Gumby character? This would be the perfect gift. Check out our Gumby page at Woodstockcandy.com today.

Mr. Potato Head

2008-11-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

Do you remember Mr. Potato Head? This fabulous toy has kept children entertained for hours since it came out in 1952. For over 50 years children of all ages have enjoyed putting the different pieces into different holes and making Mr. Potato Head as funny as can be. If your loved one has an upcoming birthday coming up, wouldn't this be a great gift to remember their childhood? The holiday season is right around the corner. You can certainly gain a few laughs when your loved one pulls a Mr. Potato Head out of their stocking.

Mr. Potato Head has been in production for over 50 years. This popular toy has also been featured on television and in movies. Mr. Potato Head was even featured in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2006. Your loved one will surely love the memories of playing with this toy as a child. Bring back the memories of their youth with one of America's most popular toys.

Mr. Potato Head is available at an unbelievable low price. You can beat the holiday rush and place your order today. There are plenty of reasons to bring back the memories of someone's youth. You can certainly do so with the famous Mr. Potato Head. Stop by Woodstockcandy.com to view this item today.

Pink Floyd Jigsaw Puzzle

2008-11-12T08:13:00.000-08:00

Pink Floyd has been one of rock music's most successful acts since the mid 1960s. Only the best of the best can last through the ever-frequent changes in music. Pink Floyd has certainly been an iconic band that strived and evolved throughout time. Here at Woodstockcandy.com we have the perfect gift for the Pink Floyd lover in your family. Our Pink Floyd Puzzle is a unique gift that will keep your Pink Floyd groupie busy for hours.

Our Pink Floyd Puzzle is a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle that will keep their minds busy and ears searching for their favorite bands music. This jigsaw puzzle measures 20 x 27 inches in size. The Pink Floyd Puzzle will be a perfect addition to any Pink Floyd collection. Your Pink Floyd lover will wonder where you obtained such a unique piece.

They can listen to "Another Brick in the Wall" as they put another piece in the puzzle with this great gift. This wonderful jigsaw puzzle is available at a great low price. With the holiday season right around the corner, you can’t go wrong with this gift. Stop by Woodstockcandy.com and pick yours up today.

Corporate Gift Basket

2008-11-07T07:39:00.000-08:00

People love to be appreciated. Even if a small goal or achievement is accomplished, it is always nice to give a person a pat on the back. Our Corporate Gift Basket is a great way to show your employees that you appreciate all of their hard work and effort that they put in. Many companies are fighting to strive through the economic downfall. There are many people who are working hard everyday to keep your company moving forward. Reward them with some wonderful candy from Woodstockcandy.com.

Our Corporate Gift Basket is a fantastic package that will put a big smile on the faces of your employees. This gift of retro candy is unique in every way. These wonderful gift baskets are a great conversation piece and show that you have recognized the efforts of your fantastic employees. The different types of sweet candy will have them grinning from ear to ear.

We have a large variety of candy gift baskets in stock. The holiday season is right around the corner. Our Corporate Gift Basket would be a great gift for your employees this holiday season. Stop by Woodstockcandy.com today and place your order.

Retro Candy

2008-11-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

Candy is a wonderful way to bring us closer together during the upcoming holiday season. You can order some of the great candy that you enjoyed as a youth at Woodstockcandy.com. Bringing some of your favorite candies back to life is a great way to remember and tell our younger generations about the glorious past that you had as a child. They will surely love the memories. They will enjoy the tasty treats that you experiences as a younger child.

Do you remember Bottlecaps? This wonderful Wonka candy was a hit for generations. You can experience the great taste again during your holiday parties. The exciting taste of grape, root beer, cherry, cola and orange will explode your taste buds. This wonderful candy comes 48 packets in a box. You will surely have enough for your guests and for you later.

Bringing back the wonderful tastes of our youth is a great way to remember the days of old. There are multiple different types of sweet candies to choose from. You will surely find exactly what you are looking for. Stop by Woodstockcandy.com to place your order today before your holiday party arrives.

Blast to the Past Package

2008-10-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

Our Blast to the Past Birthday Package is a wonderful birthday package that allows your loved one to experience the candy and toys they enjoyed in their youth. Birthdays are wonderful celebrations. This unique gift will bring back memories from the past. Your loved one will surely enjoy see and tasting all the wonderful candy they enjoyed as a child.

The Blast to the Past Package features 35 different candies for your loved one to enjoy. They will receive candies such as Sugar Daddy, Boston Baked Beans and Pixy Stix. They will also receive some cool toys from their past. Imagine the smile on their face when they see and feel Silly Putty again. They will certainly enjoy the experience.

This year, celebrate your loved ones birthday in a unique and exciting way. Allow them to take a step back to memories of their past. They will enjoy all the great candy and toys that this package contains. Be sure to stop by Woodstockcandy.com and place your sweet tasting order today.

Autumn Leaves Cake Sprinkles

2008-10-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

Fall is here and the Thanksgiving holiday is right around the corner. You and your family will be gathering together for events and holiday meals. Woodstockcandy.com has a great baking accessory to and to your favorite baked goods this Thanksgiving. Our Autumn Leaves Cake Sprinkles will have all of your baked goods in the holiday spirit. Of course, that is at least until you eat the yummy treats.

The Autumn Leaves Cake Sprinkles come in a sealed half pound bag. These decretive cake sprinkles come in fall colors. They are perfect for a cake, cupcakes or added to Thanksgiving cookies. Your friends and family will love all of your holiday treats. They will surely know that you are in the Thanksgiving spirit.

If you are part of any Thanksgiving bake sales, this would be a great baking accessory to have on your cakes and cupcakes. Everyone will wonder where you obtained such great cake decorations. This unique product is now available for shipping. Be sure to order a bag today at Woodstockcandy.com.

Bobbleheads

2008-10-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Bobbleheads are wonderful collectibles that have taken the world by storm. Bobbleheads make great birthday presents. They also are great stocking stuffers for this upcoming holiday season. We have a wide variety of bobbleheads of some of your favorite cartoon characters. You will surely find what you are searching for.

Our Elmer Fudd Bobblehead is a blast from the past that would be a great addition to your bobblehead collection. This bobblehead stands just over 6 inches tall. Elmer is holding his shotgun and ready to go rabbit hunting for that rascally rabbit that always seems to avoid him. This bobblehead features brilliant colors and comes in a collectible box.

With the holiday season right around the corner, you can add to the collection of your loved one with this great bobblehead. We also feature such characters as Speedy Gonzalez and Underdog. All of the famous characters from your childhood are in our inventory. These hard to find bobbleheads will bring a smile to your face. You can view our entire collection at Woodstockcandy.com today.

Metal Lunch Boxes

2008-10-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Metal lunch boxes are a blast from the past that will surely bring back memories and stories. At Woodstockcandy.com, we offer a wide variety of retro metal lunch boxes that are great for school, work or play. The Beatles, James Dean, Pink Floyd and many more are all available with the click of a button. These metal lunch boxes are great gifts and wonderful collectibles. Here are a few that you may enjoy.

Our Jimi Hendrix Dome Lunch Box is a brilliant design of psychedelic colors. This unbelievable rockers legacy has grown more and more over the years. You can celebrate his music with a retro metal lunch box that will surely grab the attention of your friends. You can have a great collectible featuring this rock and roll hall of fame guitarist.

From one rocker to another, our Elvis Presley Lunch Box features the man who started it all. This black metal lunch box features the King on stage in one of his original suits. Elvis collectibles are great gifts year after year. You can surprise the Elvis lover in your family with this wonderful metal lunch box. These two metal lunch boxes are just a small sample of our large inventory. Be sure to take a look at them all to find the metal lunch box that fits you. As always, you can find them at Woodstockcandy.com today.

80th Birthday Celebration Package

2008-10-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

Do you have a loved one that is turning 80 this year? Then the 80th Birthday Celebration Package is right for you and your loved one celebrating a birthday. This unique gift is an ideal way to have the recipient relive their youth and bring memories back from the past. They will surely appreciate the retro candy and wonderful thought that you put into this lovely gift.

Our 80th Birthday Celebration Package features 40 of the best candies that your loved one enjoyed in their youth. A smile will grace their face when they see candies such as Swizzle Sticks, Lemonheads and Junior Mints. These sweet treats will allow them to share memories from their younger years. Families will love to hear of all the old experiences and candies.

This candy birthday package is a wonderful treat for anyone in search of a fun birthday gift. The package is put together in a festive box that has brilliant colors. Bring back the youth of your 80 year old this year. The appreciation will overflow. You may even get to try some of the sweet tasting candy that they enjoyed when they were young. Be sure to get your 80th Birthday Celebration Package today at Woodstockcandy.com.

Thank You Candy Gift Package

2008-10-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

There are multiple ways to say thank you to someone for whichever reason you need to do so. Woodstockcandy.com is proud to offer a unique alternative that will separate your thank you from all of the rest. Our Thank You Gift Package is a wonderful way to say thank you to your friends and loved ones. These sweet retro treats will surely put huge smiles on their faces.

Our Thank You Gift Package will allow the recipient to experience a blast of delicious candy from the past. Candies like French Chew Taffy, Atomic Fireballs and Red Hots are all included in this wonderful package. He or she will get to enjoy 40 different kinds of candy in all. You have an opportunity to say thank you in a fabulous way. This huge candy package is perfect for any occasion.

Candy gift packages are the perfect way to show those around you that you appreciate them supporting you. A simple thank you is nice. A sweet thank you is even better. This unique gift allows them to remember the sweet memories of their childhood. This item is in stock now. Be sure to beat the holiday rush and order your Thank You Gift Package today at Woodstockcandy.com.

Holiday Fudge

2008-10-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

The Thanksgiving holiday is only a month away. Many of you will be celebrating with family and friends around the country. There is no doubt about it that there will be plenty of delicious food that will be served. If you are hosting a party at your home, or simply going back home for the holiday, our wonderful fudge treats will surely impress all the participants.

Our great tasting Fudge comes in a variety of flavors for your enjoyment. For the Thanksgiving holiday, try our Pumpkin Fudge. This sweet tasting fudge is the perfect flavor for your family event. Our fudge is sold in chunks and is about 1/4 of a pound in weight. They can be cut to individual sizes for a platter or dessert plate. Other popular flavors include Chocolate Walnut and Peanut Butter. Now matter which flavor you choose, this fudge will melt sweetly in your mouth.

Sweets are a great gift for anyone that may have an upcoming birthday, or simply for the holiday season. You can order a multiple different flavors to create a luxurious variety platter for your dessert table. Your friends and family will enjoy this sweet homemade fudge. As the holidays approach, be sure to take a look at all of our sweet treats at Woodstockcandy.com.

70th Birthday Peace and Love Package

2008-10-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Are you searching for an exciting birthday gift for someone who is turning 70 this year? The 70th Birthday Peace and Love Package is a wonderful gift for those who spent their 20s in the 1960s. This unique birthday gift lets your loved one remember the days of peace and love with sweet treats they will remember. Your 70 year old with feel youthful and excited to see some of the finest candies available from their era.

The 70th Birthday Peace and Love Package contains over 40 different sweet treats from the times that they remember fondly. Atomic Fireballs, Bit-O-Honey and Dubble Bubble Gum are just some of the candies that they will receive. The package comes in a unique box that features graphics of the peace and love era. Memories will surely be flowing when they see the great treats they loved from their childhood.

Be original this year for that 70th birthday party. At a great price, the 70th Birthday Peace and Love Package is affordable for all. Bring the Rock Candy Swizzle Stick back into their life and watch the smile grace their face. With the holidays right around the corner, check back with Woodstockcandy.com soon to find our latest deals.

60th Birthday Gift

2008-10-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

Is someone in your family turning 60 years old this year? We have some great 60th birthday gift ideas to bring back the youth of your loved one. Our 60th Birthday Celebration package is a great way to gain some laughs and relive wonderful memories. Your family and friends will surely enjoy the sweet treats of their childhood.

Our 60th Birthday Celebration package brings you 40 different kinds of candy for your special person will love. All of the candy comes from the era that they grew up in and enjoyed. Red Hots, Black Taffy and Chuckles are just a few of the amazing candy that will be loved by all. This 60th birthday gift will allow your loved one to experience the memories of their youth. Can a birthday gift get any better?

Birthday parties and gifts can be loads of fun. You can add to the excitement with this wonderful gift. This unique 60th birthday gift will certainly surprise the recipient. Let them know that you appreciate them in many ways with this gift of youthful memories. You may even get to try the tasty treats yourself. Be sure to check out all of our milestone birthday gifts at Woodstockcandy.com today.

1958 Birthday Party Box

2008-10-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Is someone you love turning 50 this year? Why not offer them a blast from the past with some 1950s birthday party idea treats? Our 1958 Birthday Party Box will bring back the memories of their youth with the sweet treats they enjoyed as a youngster. Your loved one doesn't have to jump over the hill quite yet. Woodstockcandy.com is proud to offer this lovely gift box that they will surely enjoy.

In the 1958 Birthday Party Box your special someone will receive 40 of their favorite treats from their special era. Jujubes, Wax Lips and Zotz are just some of the sweet candy that they will get to enjoy. They will even receive a wrapped prize just like the ones given in the old Cracker Jack box. Our 1958 Birthday Party Box will allow your loved one to share memories of their youth with all involved.

Bring back the youth of those who are heading into the golden age of life. This party box will entertain them for days with the candy that gave them the spunk as a child. This gift will be appreciated for a lifetime. We have yet to find the fountain of youth, but our birthday party boxes are the next best thing. Be sure to take a look at all of our party boxes at Woodstockcandy.com.

Teens taking candy to the people

2008-09-18T04:03:00.000-07:00

Burnaby students' junk-food business fills the void left by provincial ban
Cassidy Olivier

Canwest News ServicePublished: Thursday, September 18, 2008

VANCOUVER -- At first glance, they appear to be your average trio of teenage boys more concerned with hockey and girls than business and economics.

But come lunchtime and after school, the friends transform from awkward Grade 11s into savvy businessmen who've bypassed the provincial ban on junk food sales in schools to amass a tiny fortune.
And according to the boys -- who go by the monikers WeeMan, The Fern and Goggles -- business in the underground junk food world has been booming ever since the school bell rang two weeks ago.

The students at Moscrop Secondary in Burnaby figure they've made about $300 so far by selling classmates and teachers contraband candy, chocolate bars and potato chips -- foods which have been removed from high school vending machines under legislation that came into effect this September.

"Business is excellent and it is blooming," said Goggles, 16. "It is a great success."
"It is the best idea we've ever had," added The Fern, 16.
He said the idea to sell the banned products began as a joke when he learned about junk food ban in high schools. The ban will be extended to elementary schools in January.

But the jokes became reality when he teamed up with Goggles and WeeMan, 15, and made a bulk purchase of candy and chocolate.
Original Fresh, their business, now has its own Facebook page and the trio hand out business cards to their customers. This week, WeeMan began a text-messaging service and classroom deliveries. Yesterday, he said he made about $40.

"The kids want it and we just want to give them what they want," said WeeMan. "I'm not really into it for the money."
He said Skittles, Fuzzy Peaches and Kit Kat bars are the hot items.
Grade 8 student Anna Codrescu, whose weekly candy expenditure ranges up to $10 and who is a dedicated Original Fresh customer, said the boys provide a needed service.

"It is not like they are trying to get the whole school addicted to candy," she said. "Kids are kids and they want to enjoy their childhood. Nobody wants to eat healthy all the time."

Moscrop principal Reno Ciolfi said he's spoken with the boys and doesn't take issue as long as they don't do business on school property or from their lockers, as they'd initially been doing.

WeeMan said the group is looking to expand to neighbouring schools and possibly throughout the province. He said he's already pitched the idea to a student at Burnaby Central Secondary.
© Times Colonist (Victoria) 2008
http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/news/business/story.html?id=28926a63-5100-47a7-bba8-2b85f29dc61b

How to read the secret expiration codes on candy bars

2008-09-12T16:02:00.000-07:00

By Bridget Sweeney
woodstockcandy.com

Lots of candy bars are coded with secret expiration dates. It makes it easy for outdated candy to be bought by unsuspecting consumers.

Several of the major candy companies have their own special dating codes, and we've uncovered some of them for you! With some practice, you'll be able to instantly tell if the candy bar you want to buy is fresh or not.

Ferrera Pan Candy Company, the maker of Red Hots, Lemonheads, Jawbreakers, and Boston Baked Beans, posts the production date, not the expiration date on the box. Even after we tell you how to decipher the date, it's up to you to figure out if you think the candy is worth buying. They do not indicate the shelf life on their candy boxes, but we do know that Red Hots have a life expectancy of two years! A sample six digit code on a box of Lemonheads is: 8C0432 .The 8 stands for 2008. C is for March (A would be January, B February), and 04 means the fourth day of the month. The last two digits are of no concern to us.

NECCO, or New England Candy Company, uses the Julian Calendar for their production date coding. Some of their candies are: Necco Wafers, Mary Janes, Sky Bar, Clark Bar, Banana Splits, and Candy Buttons on Paper. NECCO told us that a Sky Bar has a shelf life of eighteen months. They also use a six digit code. This is a sample: 320772. The first and last digits are for company use only, and of no interest to us. The second, third, and fourth digits are the day of production, according to the Julian Calendar. This would be July 26. The fifth digit, which is 7, is the last digit of the year of production. The production date is July 26, 2007.
(A simplified compressed reference guide to the Julian Calendar is: January 001 – 031, February 032 – 059, March 060 - 090 April 091 – 120, May 121 – 151, June 152 – 181, July 182 – 212, August 213 – 243, September 244 – 273, October 274 – 304, November 305 – 334, and December 335 –365.)

Farley & Sathers, makers of Chuckles, Jujubes, Jujyfruit, and Now & Later, have their secret code, too. This one is a production date. Let's look at the code of: 8345CX. The first digit is the year of production, so this is 2008. The next three digits, 345, are from the Julian Calendar. This would be December 11. The last two letters are of no use to us.

Zagnut, Zero, Good & Plenty, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups are all made by Hershey's. They use a fairly simple expiration code on their candy. It consists of a number which designates the last number of the year, and a letter which stands for the month. A is January, B is February, C is March, etc. 8C would mean that the candy expires on March 2008.

Wrigleys has a six digit expiration code which stands for DDMMYY. 280409 would mean that you should chew your Juicy Fruit gum on or before April 28, 2009.

Cambridge Brands, a subsidiary of Tootsie Roll, makes such candy as Junior Mints, Tootsie Rolls, Dots, and Charleston Chew. They stamp a production date and use a code consisting of seven numbers and letters. A code L047325 is found on a box of Junior Mints. The L stands for the month, which would be December. 04 is the day, and 7 would be 2007. The last three digits are of no concern to us. This candy was manufactured on December 4, 2007.

Nestle, maker of Chunky, Wonka Bars, Nerd Ropes, Baby Ruth, and Laffy Taffy, uses a production code. Let's look at: 7144BWB18G. The first digit 7, is the last digit in the year of production. 144 is the Julian Day of manufacture which is May 24. The rest of the numbers and letters are of no value to us.

Now that you know how to decipher the secret candy code, you can do some detective work. You'll never buy stale candy again!

economy cutting candy production

2008-09-04T03:26:00.000-07:00

The Record Courier
Sept. 3, 2008
by Scott Neuffer

Even a nearly 90-year tradition of volunteers making candy is not immune to economic uncertainties. “We’re making about 4,000 pounds of candy this year instead of 4,500,” said Genoa resident Marian Vassar, who has been organizing the Genoa Candy Dance candy-making sessions since 2000. “Because of high gas prices, we suspect not as many people from great distances will come to the event.”
Held the last weekend in September every year, Candy Dance is the Town of Genoa’s main revenue source. Candy sales and the dinner-dance were the original fundraisers when the event was established in 1919 as a way to pay for the town’s electric street lights. Residents started making candy to sell at the dance from which the festival derives its name. Vassar said the sale of candy generates about $40,000 for the town each year. “Expenses are higher this year,” she said.
“Some products, like chocolate, have gone up.”Despite the economic crunch, dozens of volunteers from around the Valley have come to the Genoa Town Kitchen to help produce and package 16 varieties of sweets. And the quality of the candies has not diminished. “Our mainstay is still the fudge, rocky road and divinity,” Vassar said. “We are also making some chocolate-dipped, soft center mints and may try some English toffee.”Other candies include dragon eye mints, haystacks, peanut brittle, cappuccino cups and Genoa Gems, truffle-like fudge confections.
“It’s a lot of fun,” Vassar said. “People really do enjoy coming in here to do this.”Early Aug. 26, eight people were in the town kitchen getting their hands sugary.“My arm is getting tired,” said Johnson Lane resident John Slattery after stirring a batch of boiling fudge base for 25 minutes. It was is Slattery’s second year volunteering.“He’s become our fudge expert,” Vassar said. Gardnerville resident Sandy Cypert was enthralled by the idea of candy-making.“I just started this year and it’s very neat,” she said, while loading peanut butter cups into plastic bags. Genoa resident Betty Bourne has been volunteering her confectionery skills for 29 years.
“This is a way I support my town and make a contribution,” she said. More volunteers are welcome. Candy operations will continue in the town kitchen until Sept. 22. from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays. Those interested in volunteering to help sell candy during Candy Dance, Sept. 27 to 28, may call Vassar at 782-4584.
http://www.recordcourier.com/article/20080903/NEWS/809022426/1062&ParentProfile=1049

Michael Jackson turns 50

2008-08-31T10:51:00.000-07:00

Michael Jackson hides out at home on 50th birthday

sundaymirror.co.uk 31/08/2008

Troubled pop star Michael Jackson celebrated his 50th birthday holed up in his Las Vegas mansion watching cartoons and eating cake.
Scores of fans camped outside on Friday hoping for a glimpse of him. Some were seen delivering balloons and cake.
He stayed inside with children, Prince Michael, 11, Paris, 10, and Prince Michael II, six, but he did order pizza for his fans.
Earlier he'd said he was feeling younger than ever. In a crackling phone interview with a US TV station, he said he was still recording and dancing, but behind closed doors.
He added: "People see some of the things I do and say, 'Why don't you show this to the world. People don't know you do these things'. Maybe I will."

http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2008/08/31/michael-jackson-hides-out-at-home-on-50th-birthday-115875-20719224/

chocolate sales thriving

2008-08-14T04:29:00.000-07:00

Booze, chocolate, smokes thrive in tough times

Even as consumers face soaring energy costs, rising food prices and higher mortgages or rent, they're not prepared to forgo many of life's little treats. Alcohol, cigarette and candy makers report healthy sales amid the gloom.

By JANE WARDELL
The Associated Press

LONDON — As a global recession looms, what better way to cope than to eat, drink and be merry?

Even as consumers face soaring energy costs, rising food prices and higher mortgages or rent, they're not prepared to forgo many of life's little treats. Alcohol, cigarette and candy makers report healthy sales amid the gloom.

"I would never give it up, not unless I was dying of alcohol poisoning or something," said Kelly Piggeln, a 62-year-old retired nanny, as she indulged in her favorite two vices of a cigarette and a glass of wine on the patio of a London bar.

Piggeln's stance is echoed by cash-strapped consumers around the world, a trend reflected in strong financial reports this season from some of the biggest so-called "sin stocks" even as banks and many retailers slump.
Sin stocks, ranging from gambling to liquor, are usually a safe bet in hard times. While shares in some of those companies have fallen along with stock exchanges this year, many still have strong sales."It's inelastic demand as far as many of these stocks are concerned," said Hargreaves Lansdown analyst Keith Bowman, using the economists' term for consumption not deterred by higher prices.

"So far there's signs that they are holding up, although there's still concern that these industries will see some impact."
Brewer going strong
Among the winners: Anheuser-Busch, the biggest brewer in the U.S., turned a profit in the most recent quarter despite fears that rising costs for raw materials like glass, barley and wheat and fuel would cut into the bottom line.

The company is so confident consumers won't abandon the beer that it plans to increase prices for popular brands like Budweiser and Bud Light to stay ahead of the higher costs.

Denmark's Carlsberg reported a 36 percent rise in second-quarter profit, saying stronger sales, particularly in Eastern Europe and Asia, helped offset rising costs.

In Milwaukee, Katie Brozovich, a teacher who also works three part-time jobs, said she makes choices in her spending, such as not having her hair and nails professionally done, so she can keep drinking the pricier craft brews she prefers.

"I'd rather spend $4 or $5 on quality beer than $3 on hopped up water," said the 46-year-old, sipping on a craft beer from nearby Michigan. "It's worth the extra buck or two to get quality."

Diageo, the world's largest producer and distributor of spirits, dubs many of its brands — including Johnnie Walker whiskey, Smirnoff vodka, Captain Morgan rum and Guinness stout — "affordable luxuries" that people are loath to give up, even in an economic downturn.

London-based Diageo expects its Scotch whisky business to continue to grow at least 8 to 9 percent annually, amid rising demand from emerging markets in Asia and Latin America.

Cigarette sales
Philip Morris International said its earnings rose 23 percent in the second quarter and it raised its earnings forecast for this year, saying it had not been affected by inflationary pressures like other consumer-products companies.
"Cigarettes in general can withstand such an environment better than many consumer products," Chief Financial Officer Hermann Waldemer said at the time.
But a drink and a smoke do not appear to be the only ways consumers are comforting themselves in tougher economic conditions.
London-based Cadbury, the world's biggest confectionary company, reported a 7.3 percent rise in first-half sales in its first results since spinning off its U.S. drinks business.
Among the big sellers in its candy store was Dairy Milk chocolate, rising 9 percent.

In the U.S., Hershey reported dramatically higher second-quarter sales and profit and reaffirmed its 2008 guidance of sales growth of 3 to 4 percent.
"The odd bar of chocolate is not going to break the bank," said Louise Hill, 33, a London office worker. "I always have a piece a day and I can't see that changing."

Copyright © 2008 The Seattle Times Company
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2008112578_recessionparty14.html

New candy creations

2008-08-03T04:00:00.000-07:00

For a Sweet Treat: New Candy Creations Think Outside the Bar

How sweet it is; this year alone, more than 2,000 new snack and confectionery creations will stock store shelves and give consumers something new to chew, chomp, lick and enjoy.

Sunday August 3rd, 2008

(NewsUSA) - With seemingly endless flavor possibilities, new twists on childhood favorites and innovative limited edition treats, the latest candy innovations are surprising taste buds, according to the National Confectioners Association.

"There's been an explosion of creative flavors, new sensations and personalization in candy," commented Susan Fussell, vice president of communications, NCA. "As the American palate becomes more diverse, candy manufacturers continue to reinvent the classics and introduce innovative candy creations to satisfy the most sophisticated taste buds and please the ordinary appetite."

Taste buds are in for a sensory experience with innovations like Nestlé's mouth-popping chocolate Tinglerz or Hershey's Bliss with Meltaway Center.

Companies are also rolling out new twists on old favorites. Classic PEEPS are now available in Chocolate Mousse Flavored Bunnies and Bears. Now consumers can chomp and chew away at Lemonhead Chewy and Chewy Atomic FireBalls from Ferrara Pan Candy Co.
Personalization is key. Mars Snackfood U.S. introduces M&M's that can be made to order with your photo on the chocolate candy, or you can pen your own message inside My DOVE Chocolate wrappers.

Creative and out-of-this-world, kids' candies continue to drive new product innovation with treats like the Nintendo Wii KLIK-on Candy Dispenser, a mock Wii controller that dispenses candy with a touch of a button. Who said you couldn't play with your food, too?

When it comes to chocolate, candy makers are thinking outside the bar. Chuao Chocolatier's new ChocoPods Firecracker combines dark chocolate with a chipotle center. Milk & Peanut Butter from Ghirardelli is a delectable bar of gourmet milk chocolate squares filled with smooth, creamy and crunchy peanut butter.

Consumers can freshen their breath, plus strengthen and rebuild tooth enamel, while chewing on Cadbury's Trident Xtra Care with Recaldent.

Or, try new fruity gum flavors like Stride Always Mandarin, a mouth-watering orange-flavored gum, or Wrigley's Orbit Fabulous Fruitini and Orbit Sangria Fresca. With the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance, Orbit gum is also good for your teeth and refreshing for your mouth.

To learn more about the newest candy innovations and latest trends, or to download candy recipes, visit www.candyusa.com.
http://www.fosterfollynews.com/news/2008July31Candies.php

EU approves Mars buy of Wrigley

2008-07-28T17:21:00.000-07:00

Reuters
Monday July 28 2008
(Adds quotes, background)
BRUSSELS, July 28 (Reuters) - M&M's candy maker Mars Inc of the United States won unconditional permission from the European Commission on Monday to purchase the U.S. No. 1 chewing gum manufacturer Wm Wrigley Jr Co for $23 billion.
"There is no overlap in the parties' core confectionery activities (chocolate and gum)," the Commission said in a statement.
"Although both parties are active in sugar confectionery, the limited market shares do not give rise to competition concerns," the European Union executive added.
The deal, which billionaire Warren Buffett helped to finance, would create the world's largest confectionery company. Mars is privately held.
"The Commission also concluded that there is no risk that the joint entity could use the strong market position Wrigley currently enjoys on the gum markets to gain an unfair advantage over their competitors through foreclosure of chocolate markets," the executive said.
The deal will give Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc a stake of more than 10 percent in Wrigley, which will become a separate Mars subsidiary.
Buffett's other food holdings include a stake in Kraft Foods Inc.
Aside from Berkshire, financing for the Wrigley deal is being provided by Goldman Sachs Group and JPMorgan Chase & Co, Mars said in a statement when the deal was announced.
The combined companies would have a major presence in the global chocolate, gum and candy businesses.
Wrigley has brands such as Extra and Eclipse, while privately held Mars is known for its M&M's, Snickers, Starburst and Twix. (Reporting by David Lawsky; Editing by Paul Bolding)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7683873

Red-Hatters celebrate

2008-07-27T15:55:00.000-07:00

Red-Hatters kick up heels for 10 years
July 27, 2008
By Denise M. Baran-Unland
Special to the Herald News

The front page color photograph of a group of women all dressed in red hats and purple dresses caught Dale Smith's eye.
As Smith read the accompanying Herald News article, she learned that these women were all members of a group known as the Red Hat Society. What perfect fit for the former group of AT&T employees, now known as the Scarlet O'Hatters.
Pink hats?
"We had been friends for years, but now we were all retired," said Smith, of Joliet.
"I thought that since we no longer worked together, this would keep us together as a group. That was about five years ago, and it's been pretty much of a social club for us. We meet at the same time each month so everyone can plan for that time. We have lunch at a restaurant and maybe to go shopping or go to antique stores."

Although the organization itself is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, the Red Hat Society has proudly kept intact its "disorganization" or lack of rules and regulations that pervade many other organizations. While individual chapters may participate in organized charities or planned events, the mission of the Red Hat Society is to simply have fun.
"I've been involved in 20 different things over the yeas, but I wanted to join this one because you didn't have to do any paperwork or be an officer," said Penny Podlenski, of Joliet, member of the GG's or the Gorgeous Gallivanters.

Who are they?According to the Red Hat Society, half of the women who belong to the society are "baby boomers," women who influence 80 percent of the $2.1 trillion that this group spends as a whole on consumer goods and consumers. These are not women who are heading for the rocking chair anytime soon.
"When I turned 50, I felt that there was still such a vibrant life ahead of me," said Sue Ellen Cooper, founder and president of the Red Hat Society. "I never would have thought that by giving one friend a festive red hat to celebrate her 50th birthday would catch fire the way that it did. But clearly this gesture symbolized something to older women, that the second phase of life is ripe with potential for living life to its absolute fullest."

Founded in 1998, the Red Hat Society has grown far beyond Cooper's original intent. The organization today has nearly 40,000 chapters in 25 countries and strives to make real differences in women's lives.
Since 2004, Go Red for Women (www.GoRedForWomen.org) has encouraged women to take seriously their risk for heart disease. As a 10th birthday present to itself, the Red Hat Society has collaborated with the American Heart Association to raise awareness of heart disease among women through its "Hatters Have Heart" campaign, said CEO Debra Granich.

Nevertheless, such activities do not diminish the society's basic foundation of fellowship.

"While there are so many things our members enjoy, from discounts to rich experiences, what they seem to value most are the lasting connections they make," Granich said. "On our 10th birthday, I am proud that together we have led one of the revolutionary movements of our time, one dedicated to showing the world the joy of what it means to be a woman approaching 50 and beyond."

Even younger women can join in the fun.

The Pink Hatters, is for women younger than 50.
"They belong to the same group, but wear pink hats and lavender clothes," said Lois Leonard, of Joliet. "We have only one Pink Hatter in our group who happens to be my daughter-in-law."
Leonard and a friend enjoyed going to the movies and bingo events together, but wanted to connect with more women their age. Vaguely aware of the Red Hat Society's existence, Leonard went online to learn more about them.

Her group, The Red Hot Hooters, spun off from a former Joliet group, Those Darling Red Hat Divas.
"We meet once a month, usually at my place because it's hard to conduct meetings in a restaurant and we can be a little bit louder and more boisterous in our own space," Leonard said. "More times than not we do potlucks or a bring-your-own-breakfast and stop and bring McDonald's or some kind of rolls. Many of my ladies are still working so it's hard for them to meet more often than that."
Although Leonard's group is also mainly a social group, the 18 members will often participate in official Red Hat events, such as teas and weekend-long trips. "It's amazing the amount of people that come out for them," Leonard said.
Such events also attract vendors, but that's part of the fun, said Podlenski. "They sell anything you can think of for Red Hatters: boas, purses, hats, scarves, dresses, all kinds of stuff. Now that we're over 50, many things aren't as important to us as they were when we were 40.
"We're just thankful to God that we get through the day and we might as well be silly and happy. I think that's the attitude that most Red Hatters have."
http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/bolingbrooksun/lifestyles/1075219,4_5_JO27_REDHATS_S1.article

candy - an affordable luxury

2008-07-21T18:14:00.000-07:00

Candy remains an affordable luxury
NCA SmartBrief 07/21/2008
Candy sales hit $29.1 billion in 2007 and are expected to increase up to 3% this year, said Susan Fussell, spokeswoman for NCA. "Historically during either recessions or economic downturns, people continue to buy candy in part because it's an affordable luxury," she said. Austin American-Statesman (Texas) (free registration) (07/21)

http://www.smartbrief.com/news/nca/storyDetails.jsp?issueid=96223D48-7FE0-499B-B883-3574846B383F&copyid=2BA47434-15AE-49D9-8E41-C47745C8B11B

Milky Way 85th Anniversary

2008-07-18T04:15:00.000-07:00

HACKETTSTOWN, N.J., July 17, 2008 /
PRNewswire via COMTEX/
-- Mars Snackfood US announced today the celebration of the 85th Anniversary of MILKY WAY(R), the first ever "filled" candy bar in the USA. Created in 1923 in the kitchen of Frank Mars, the original MILKY WAY(R) bar -- a now comforting combination of milk chocolate, nougat and caramel -- sold for a nickel and was an overnight success for Mars. Designed to replicate the taste of malted milk shakes, which were the rage of the roaring '20s, MILKY WAY(R) was named after a famed malted milk drink of the day -- not the Earth's galaxy, as many contend.

Today the MILKY WAY bar can be found nationwide in all retail outlets.
"While MILKY WAY(R) boasts an out-of-this-world taste, it's true that the original bar was named after malted milk shakes," said Michele Kessler, vice president, marketing, Mars Snackfood US. "In fact, the brand's first tagline was A Chocolate Malted Milk in a Candy Bar." While America's tastes changed and soda shops declined in popularity, the MILKY WAY(R) bar remained a favorite of candy lovers nationwide. "MILKY WAY(R) truly is one of America's most iconic candy bars," Kessler added. "The brand's classic combination of milk chocolate, nougat and caramel remains as beloved now as it was more than eight and half decades ago."

MILKY WAY(R) Takes the Anniversary on the Road - Marketing Activity
To help celebrate the Milky Way brand's 85th Anniversary, a refurbished 1970's era station wagon will be cruising the country this summer on the MILKY WAY(R) Road trip, bringing Country Karaoke, family photos and product sampling to fairs and festivals across the USA. Scheduled stops for the MILKY WAY(R) Road Trip include stops at classic American summer events such as the Taste of Cincinnati, the Hometown Milwaukee 4th of July parade, and the Brickyard Classic in Indianapolis.

In addition, MILKY WAY(R) is sponsoring the Great American Country Tour Bus as it crosses America, stopping at concerts and popular music festivals. Now in its third year, the GAC Tour Bus will stop at some of the biggest country music events of the summer during its 27,000-mile trek across 25 states. Music fans can sample MILKY WAY(R) products while enjoying music by their favorite country artists.

An Anniversary Worth Celebrating - Milky Way Brand Portfolio
MILKY WAY(R) started its candy life as part of a chocolate pair -- the original MILKY WAY(R) bars came in both the chocolate flavor consumers know and love and a less known, but equally loved, vanilla flavor.

MILKY WAY(R)'s vanilla sibling has had a long and storied history. After 13 years as a pair, the vanilla version was renamed FOREVER YOURS(R) and sold under that name until 1979. Responding to popular demand, MILKY WAY(R) reintroduced a vanilla and bittersweet candy bar under the name MILKY WAY(R) Dark Bar (renamed MILKY WAY(R) Midnight Bar in 2000).

Today, there are three flavors of MILKY WAY(R) bars: the original MILKY WAY(R) Bar, MILKY WAY(R) Brand Milk Chocolate Covered Caramels, and MILKY WAY MIDNIGHT(R) Bar. These flavors are available in regular bars, FUN SIZE(R), 2 To Go and Minis. Regular 2-ounce MILKY WAY(R) Bars retail for $.75. For more information, please visit http://www.milkywaybar.com.

About Mars Snackfood US:
Mars Snackfood US is the United States snack operations of Mars North America. With more than $7 billion in annual sales in the United States, Mars North America includes food, snack and pet care segments, which are a symbol of excellence for quality brands. Headquartered in Mount Olive, N.J., Mars North America employs more than 12,000 associates in the United States, with 54 facilities nationwide. Mars Snackfood US, headquartered in Hackettstown, N.J., includes some of the world's favorite brands such as DOVE(R) Brand Chocolate, M&M'S(R) Brand, MILKY WAY(R) Brand, SKITTLES(R) Brand, SNICKERS(R) Brand, STARBURST(R) Brand, 3 MUSKETEERS(R) Brand, TWIX(R) Brand and more. Additional popular brands in the petcare and food segments for Mars North America include UNCLE BEN'S(R) Brand, PEDIGREE(R) Brand Food for Dogs, and WHISKAS(R) Brand Food for Cats. Please visit http://www.mars.com.
SOURCE Mars Snackfood US http://www.mars.com
Copyright (C) 2008 PR Newswire. All rights reserved
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/comfort-never-tasted-so-sweet/story.aspx?guid=%7B22621F7E-B123-4339-8C24-B0CF6ECF97FC%7D&dist=hppr