As the Sweet & Snacks Expo begins this week, let’s unwrap the rich history and modern-day impact of Chicago – once crowned the Candy Capital of the World.  

Origin story: How Chicago Became the Candy Capital 

By the mid-20^th century, Chicago had earned the title, thanks to a wave of European immigrants who moved to the city and started confection-oriented businesses. According to Chicago Stories, by WTTW, these mom-and-pop shops scaled up fast, and produced a staggering 556 million pounds of candy every year by 1940. The reasons for Chicago’s growth in this sector was – per WTTW, by a skilled, diverse workforce, its central location, cool climate and access to the Midwest railroad network. 

From Salvatore Ferrara’s spicy Red Hots in the 1930s to the timeless allure of Fannie May Buttercreams in the 1920s, Chicago’s treats became national staples and remain popular to this day. Not only did these leading brands shape the nation’s tastebuds, but they also continue to have strong ties with Chicago and offers jobs to Chicago residents and shape neighborhoods. Until recently, Blommer’s West Loop chocolate facility created an aroma of chocolate in the neighborhood. The Mars Wrigley facility on Oak Park Avenue, recognized for its ‘Spanish Revival architecture style’ architecture even has its own Metra stop. All of this shows that Chicago has been shaped by sweets and candy throughout the 20^th century. 

The Value of Confectionary Industry today 

Today, snacking continues to be big business. Statista projects the confectionary and snacks market will hit US $141.34 bn by 2025 and is expected to grow annually by 4.63%. The National Confectioners Association calculated the economic impact of the confectionary industry on federal and state economies. The industry supports nearly 700,000 jobs across the U.S. Illinois alone claims 57,000 of them, outpacing its neighboring states. With a $6.3 billion state-wide impact, this is truly sweet – and serious – business.

Winds of Change

Despite the rich legacy, Chicagoland has seen several closures of manufacturing facilities and warehouses over the past decades - Mars Wrigley, Blommer, Jelly Belly, and Brach’s among them. It’s a reminder that sustaining a thriving business environment requires continuous effort. But it’s not all doom and gloom: a Ferraro facility in Bloomington, IL now produces some of Ferrero’s famous chocolates while fueling the local economy. 

What’s next for Chicago’s Sweet Scene? 

Chicago has a history of the mom-and-pop shops turning into large companies with familiar brands. At CFBN, we root both for the existing candy heroes, as well as the emerging confectioners. Some of the new brands – many supported at The Hatchery, Chicago’s food and beverage incubator– are creating exciting confections. From BAKR's frozen cookie dough found in local grocers, to artisanal toffee maker Crafian. Both Vosges Haut-Chocolat and Windy City Sweets continue to delight tastebuds. Innovative brand Hormbles Chormbles produces a protein packed chocolate bar that is anticipating the protein trend. Chicago’s candy culture isn’t just history, it’s a living, evolving tradition.  

Conclusion: Celebrate the Legacy, Support the Future 

As the Sweets & Snacks Expo kicks off – formerly hosted in Chicago – it’s a perfect time to reflect on the city’s role in shaping the nation’s sweet tooth. Let’s celebrate the legacy of the Candy Capital, recognize the economic and cultural impact of these delightful industries, and continue supporting businesses (big and small) that make life just a bit sweeter.