Ever wondered what makes Hershey's so special? From its humble beginnings to becoming a household name, Hershey's has a rich history filled with sweet surprises. Founded by Milton S. Hershey in 1894, this iconic brand has been delighting chocolate lovers for over a century. But there's more to Hershey's than just chocolate bars. Did you know Hershey's was involved in World War II by producing special chocolate rations for soldiers? Or that the company owns an entire town in Pennsylvania? Dive into these 29 fascinating facts about Hershey's and discover the secrets behind one of America's favorite treats. Whether you're a chocolate connoisseur or just curious, these tidbits will surely satisfy your sweet tooth and curiosity alike.
The Sweet Beginnings of Hershey
Hershey is a name synonymous with chocolate. But how much do you know about this iconic brand? Let's dive into some fascinating facts about Hershey that might surprise you.
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Milton S. Hershey founded the company in 1894. He initially started with caramel before moving to chocolate.
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Hershey's first product was a chocolate bar. This simple treat laid the foundation for the company's success.
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The town of Hershey, Pennsylvania, was built by Milton Hershey. It was designed as a model town for his employees.
Hershey's Chocolate Innovations
Hershey has been at the forefront of chocolate innovation for over a century. Here are some groundbreaking moments in their history.
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Hershey's Kisses were introduced in 1907. These bite-sized chocolates quickly became a favorite.
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The company created the first mass-produced milk chocolate. This made chocolate affordable for everyone.
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Hershey's Special Dark chocolate was launched in 1939. It catered to those who preferred a richer, more intense flavor.
Hershey's Impact on the Community
Beyond chocolate, Hershey has made significant contributions to society. Let's explore some of these impactful initiatives.
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Milton Hershey School was founded in 1909. It provides free education and housing to underprivileged children.
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Hersheypark opened in 1906. Originally for employees, it now attracts millions of visitors annually.
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The Hershey Trust Company manages the school's endowment. This ensures the school's long-term financial stability.
Fun Facts About Hershey Products
Hershey's product line is vast and varied. Here are some fun tidbits about their most popular items.
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Reese's Peanut Butter Cups were created in 1928. They remain one of Hershey's best-selling products.
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Hershey's produces over 70 million Kisses daily. That's a lot of chocolate!
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The company introduced the Take 5 bar in 2004. It combines five delicious ingredients: pretzels, caramel, peanuts, peanut butter, and chocolate.
Hershey's Global Reach
Hershey's influence extends far beyond the United States. Let's look at their global footprint.
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Hershey's products are sold in over 60 countries. Their chocolate is enjoyed worldwide.
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The company has manufacturing plants in Mexico, Canada, and Malaysia. This helps meet global demand.
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Hershey's acquired the Canadian candy company, Allan Candy, in 2014. This expanded their product offerings in Canada.
Hershey's Commitment to Sustainability
Hershey is dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment. Here are some of their sustainability efforts.
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Hershey sources 100% certified cocoa. This supports sustainable farming practices.
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The company aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030. They're committed to fighting climate change.
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Hershey's uses recyclable packaging for many products. This helps reduce waste.
Hershey's Marketing and Branding
Hershey's marketing strategies have played a crucial role in their success. Let's explore some iconic campaigns and branding efforts.
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The "Hershey's Chocolate World" attraction opened in 1973. It offers interactive experiences and tours.
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Hershey's commercials often feature heartwarming themes. This resonates with families and chocolate lovers alike.
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The company uses the slogan "The Great American Chocolate Bar." It emphasizes their heritage and quality.
Hershey's Role in Popular Culture
Hershey has made its mark in movies, TV shows, and more. Here are some notable appearances.
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Hershey's chocolate was featured in the movie "E.T." This helped boost sales of Reese's Pieces.
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The company has a presence in theme parks. Hersheypark and Hershey's Chocolate World are major attractions.
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Hershey's products are often used in baking shows. They add a touch of sweetness to many recipes.
Hershey's Philanthropic Efforts
Giving back is a core value for Hershey. Here are some ways they contribute to various causes.
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Hershey's "Shared Goodness" program supports communities. It focuses on education, health, and economic development.
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The company donates millions to charitable organizations. This helps improve lives around the world.
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Hershey's employees volunteer thousands of hours annually. They support local communities through various initiatives.
Hershey's Future Plans
Hershey continues to innovate and grow. Let's look at what's on the horizon for this beloved brand.
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The company is investing in plant-based chocolate. This caters to the growing demand for vegan options.
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Hershey plans to expand its product line. New flavors and formats are always in development.
Sweet Ending
Hershey's isn't just a chocolate brand; it's a slice of American history. From its humble beginnings in Pennsylvania to becoming a global icon, Hershey's has sweetened lives for over a century. Milton Hershey's vision wasn't just about making chocolate but also about creating a community. His legacy lives on through the town of Hershey, the amusement park, and the school he founded.
Whether you're a fan of Hershey's Kisses, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, or the classic Hershey's bar, there's no denying the impact this brand has had on the world. Next time you unwrap a Hershey's treat, remember the rich history and the sweet journey that brought it to you. Enjoy every bite, knowing you're part of a story that spans generations. Hershey's isn't just chocolate; it's a tradition.
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