CANDY COUNTER
Candy Cane Flavor Upgrades Even after 90 years, Hammond's Candies doesn't rest on its laurels, continually intro- ducing traditional candy in innovative, trend- forward flavors. "Candy canes are by far our best-selling holiday item," says Fletcher. An assortment of 30 flavors includes classic Peppermint and Cinnamon and more exotic Five Spice and Blood Orange. One way Hammond's has created such
a loyal following is by keeping on trend and maintaining consistent high quality. "One of the trends right now is pioneering new flavor profiles. So for retailers, our cane assortments are their best friend as a variety of flavors in a particular style can be purchased even for the smallest stores," she notes. "From a consumer standpoint, they're perfect for gifting because someone might like a Birthday Cake candy cane [any time of year], but not be able to resist a signature Peppermint cane during the holidays." Having unique products helps too.
"Our Ribbon Candy is great, not only for the holiday season, but throughout the year. Our Hanukkah line features the Blue Raspberry flavor, which is adored by many but not found elsewhere," Fletcher says. "This year, we're launching our greatest gift-giving guide yet. Expanding past our delicious candies and chocolates, we have gifts that are salty and satisfying."
Chocolate Bars Brew Nostalgia Memories are powerful motivators to buy— which is why Seattle Chocolates' new line of 1950s-inspired chocolate bars is destined to strike a sweet chord. "We started with the holiday memory," says Kirsty Ellison, vice president of sales and marketing, of the cre- ative process. "For example, the Mom's Hot Cocoa flavor was inspired by a snow-day memory of no school and sledding up and down a neighborhood park hill with friends until your cheeks were raw. After a long fun day, you would tumble in the front door and Mom would be waiting with a steaming mug of hot cocoa, marshmallows included." The
36 ❘ SPECIALTY FOOD MAGAZINE ❘ specialtyfood.com