Chicago’s Sweet Legacy Shines this Halloween – and It’s Not Just for Kids

Happy Halloween from World Business Chicago! This week, we’re celebrating Chicago’s incredible legacy as the nation’s candy and snack capital. Whether you’re handing out treats, indulging yourself, or celebrating with friends, Chicago-made snacks are at the heart of it all. From nostalgic favorites like Tootsie Rolls to trending sensations like Ferrara’s Nerds Gummy Clusters, Chicago-made products are filling candy bowls nationwide.

Chicago: Where America’s Favorite Candy & Snacks Are Made

For over a century, Chicago has been synonymous with candy production. The city’s legacy began with immigrant entrepreneurs and grew into a global powerhouse by the mid-20th century. Today, Chicago’s influence remains unmatched, with iconic brands leading the way:

• Ferrara Candy Company – Makers of Lemonheads, Nerds, and Atomic Fireballs.
• Mars Wrigley – Home to favorites like Starburst, Skittles, and Juicy Fruit gum.
• Tootsie Roll Industries – Creators of Halloween staples like Tootsie Rolls and Tootsie Pops.
• Ferrero – Producing beloved brands such as Butterfinger and CRUNCH in Illinois.
• Mondelēz International – Behind classics like Oreo, Swedish Fish, and Sour Patch Kids.
• Blommer Chocolate Company – Supplying cocoa for many iconic candy creations.
• Garrett Popcorn Shops® – Known for its famous Chicago Mix popcorn.

Chicago’s candy and snack industry employs over 10,000 people and continues to innovate with major investments. With Mars Wrigley’s $42 million R&D hub on Goose Island and Ferrero’s Innovation Center and North America R&D Lab in the historic Marshall Field and Company Building—Chicago is not just leading the way in confectionery but in food innovation at large.

Introducing “Adultoween”: Halloween Isn’t Just for Kids Anymore

A new survey by Ferrero North America reveals that Halloween has evolved far beyond a children’s celebration. The trend, dubbed “Adultoween,” highlights how more adults are embracing the holiday with nostalgic enthusiasm. The survey of more than 5,000 adults found that:

• 69% of adults plan to buy candy even if they don’t expect trick-or-treaters.
• 77% say they feel nostalgic about their own trick-or-treating experiences.
• 47% dress up in costumes for their own enjoyment, while 36% dress up their pets.
• 60% say they enjoy carving pumpkins, and 58% plan to decorate their homes for Halloween.

“Halloween has traditionally been thought of as a children’s holiday, but we’re seeing a growing trend of adults fully embracing it for themselves,” said Neal Finkler, Vice President of Marketing for Ferrero. The Ferrero portfolio—featuring nostalgic favorites like Butterfinger, CRUNCH, and Baby Ruth—plays a major role in this trend, allowing adults to relive fond childhood memories while indulging in modern treats like Kinder Joy Glow-in-the-Dark Eggs and Tic Tac Trick or Treat packs.

The Rise of Nerds Gummy Clusters: A Chicago Success Story

One standout story comes from Ferrara Candy Company, the Chicago-based creators of Nerds Gummy Clusters. The innovative twist on the classic Nerds candy has become a sensation. Since its launch, the product has skyrocketed in popularity—achieving $800 million in sales last year and even making a Super Bowl ad debut. The product’s journey reflects Chicago’s ongoing impact on food innovation and demonstrates the city’s ability to reinvent and lead trends. Read more via New York Times.

#ChicagoMadeCandyAndSnacks

This Halloween, join us in celebrating Chicago’s sweet legacy. Whether you’re trick-or-treating, hosting an “Adultoween” party, or simply indulging in your favorite snack, make sure to choose local treats made in Chicagoland. Snap a photo of your Chicago-made candy and share it on social media using the hashtag #ChicagoMadeCandyAndSnacks.