About Us

The history of The Hershey Company extends across more than a hundred years and is closely tied to the vision and perseverance of its founder, Milton S. Hershey. Born in 1857 in rural Pennsylvania, he was raised in a modest environment and experienced repeated failures early in his career. Rather than giving up, he treated these setbacks as learning opportunities, developing a belief that determination and creativity could transform even simple ideas into lasting success. His early work in confectionery and small-scale business ventures laid the groundwork for what would eventually become a global brand.

In 1894, Milton Hershey founded the company that would later carry his name, initially focusing on producing chocolate ingredients such as coatings and baking supplies. This marked a significant shift from his earlier endeavors and allowed him to concentrate on building a more stable and scalable operation. His ambitions quickly grew, and in 1900 he introduced the Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar, a product that changed the accessibility of chocolate. What had once been considered a luxury item became widely available and affordable, helping the company gain national recognition and strong consumer demand.

The early twentieth century brought continued innovation. In 1907, the company launched Hershey’s Kisses, a product distinguished by its shape and smooth consistency. Its popularity surged, leading to the adoption of automated wrapping processes to meet growing demand. Around this time, a notable event entered company lore when Milton Hershey canceled plans to travel on the RMS Titanic sinking, a decision that ultimately spared his life.

Milton Hershey believed strongly that business success should benefit society. Acting on this principle, he developed the town of Hershey, Pennsylvania as a planned community for employees and their families. The town featured housing, schools, and recreational spaces, creating a supportive environment for workers. In 1906, Hersheypark was established as a place for leisure and entertainment, eventually becoming a major attraction. A few years later, in 1909, Milton and his wife founded the Milton Hershey School to provide care and education for disadvantaged children. He later dedicated much of his wealth to ensuring the long-term success of this institution.

As the company expanded, it introduced a wider range of products, incorporating ingredients like nuts, caramel, coconut, and toffee. This diversification strengthened its market presence and broadened its appeal. During this period, the M.S. Hershey Foundation was also established, supporting cultural and educational initiatives in the community.

Following Milton Hershey’s passing in 1945, the company continued to grow and adapt to changing consumer tastes. New varieties of candy and chocolate were developed, incorporating flavors such as mint and almond. The postwar era brought increased demand, leading to further expansion into different types of sweets, including chewy candies and snack products. Over time, the brand became a staple in households, recognized for both its traditional chocolate bars and its expanding range of confections.

From the 1970s through the 1990s, the company strengthened its identity through creative branding and a broader selection of products. Fruity candies and novelty treats joined the lineup, reflecting evolving preferences. Entering the twenty-first century, the company expanded further into gum and mint categories, signaling a shift toward a more diverse snacking portfolio.

In recent years, Hershey has continued to evolve in response to modern trends and dietary considerations. New offerings include darker chocolate options, fruit-infused products, portion-controlled snacks, and items designed for specific nutritional needs. The company has also introduced plant-based and sugar-free alternatives, reflecting a commitment to meeting contemporary expectations.

Today, The Hershey Company stands as a global leader in the confectionery industry, built on a legacy of resilience, innovation, and social responsibility. What began as one individual’s vision has grown into a diverse organization that continues to create products enjoyed by people around the world, while maintaining a strong connection to its origins and values.