The Hershey Company is investing in minority stakes in two snack companies, Fulfil Holdings Limited and Blue Stripes LLC, through its venture model, C7 Ventures, which supports innovative and emerging companies.
Fulfil is one of the leading creators of high protein nutrition bars in the UK and Ireland. While Blue Stripes was founded by Oded Brenner, the owner of chocolate retailer Max Brenner, and is recognised for offering experiential retail combining “the goodness of cocoa with a unique customer experience”.
“Successful companies evolve and engage consumers in new and different ways. As we continue to expand our snacking portfolio, our innovation agenda takes a balanced approach across investing in core brands and experimenting with new business models. This includes creating new platforms through R&D, strategic acquisitions and investments in businesses that are sitting at the cross section of new consumer snacking needs,” said Mary Beth West, chief growth officer at The Hershey Company.
In May, the US confectionery company unveiled a new emoji bar to celebrate its 125 years in the sector. The milk chocolate Emoji Bars feature 25 of the most popular emojis across six different emoji packaging designs.
