Tag: Hershey

  • A century of sweetness as Hershey’s syrup hits the hundred mark

    A century of sweetness as Hershey’s syrup hits the hundred mark

    MUMBAI: It’s not every day a kitchen staple hits a century and does it with this much flair. As Hershey’s Syrup gears up to celebrate its 100th birthday in 2026, Hershey India is whisking up a full-year celebration that’s more indulgent than a triple-chocolate sundae.

    Titled Pour a Little Magic With Hershey’s Syrup, the campaign is a gooey blend of nostalgia, creativity and community love headlined by longtime brand ambassador and culinary charmer chef Ranveer Brar. The festivities kicked off with a teaser that had Brar’s fans seeing the number “100” pop up in oddly sweet places, sparking curiosity like a mystery mousse.

    The syrupy surprise was soon revealed: a centenary celebration that invites consumers to join the fun by submitting their coolest, quirkiest summer recipes using the iconic chocolate syrup. Milkshakes, popsicles, desserts, you name it top 100 entries win a limited-edition recipe book co-created (and signed) by chef Brar himself, plus a chance to be featured on Hershey’s official Instagram page.

    Hershey India is going full swirl with the commemorative fun, launching a digital-first campaign, a 100-year promo pack, and in-store activations to sweeten the deal. And if that’s not enough, there’s more cooking in the second half of the year expect more sugar-fuelled activities aimed at fans with a sweet tooth and a creative streak.

    Commenting on the campaign Hershey India & APAC, marketing director, Kamy Devaguptapu said, “As we celebrate 100 years of Hersey’s Syrup, we are reminded of the countless moments of joy and creativity the brand has inspired across the world. This campaign is a tribute to our loyal consumers who have made Hersey’s Syrup a beloved part of their lives.”

    Chef Ranveer Brar said, “Hershey’s Syrup is more than just an ingredient, it’s been part of countless memories and sweet moments in kitchens across the country. This campaign is a wonderful opportunity to showcase people’s culinary creativity by reimagining summer with Hersey’s Syrup. We invite you to share your unique recipes and inspire others with the magic of Hersey’s Syrup.”

    As the syrup turns 100, it seems the recipe is simple, one part nostalgia, one part innovation, and a generous pour of magic. Ready, set, swirl.

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  • Hershey’s Kisses releases first India TVC

    Hershey’s Kisses releases first India TVC

    MUMBAI: Hershey India, a part of The Hershey Company, has announced the release of the first ever India TVC for its recently launched iconic and globally-loved ‘Hershey’s Kisses’ chocolate.

    The new TVC, featuring Hershey’s India brand ambassador Tara Sharma, primarily focuses on how the chocolate enables endearing everyday moments of bonding and affection with loved ones. It celebrates the unique shape and wrapping of Hershey’s Kisses that makes every single one perfect for sharing with dear ones.

    Speaking about the product launch and the brand’s marketing plans, Hershey India managing director Herjit Bhalla, said, “We leveraged The Hershey Company’s rich chocolate heritage and expertise of 125 years, with the launch of the iconic Hershey’s Kisses chocolates. Hershey’s Kisses is a global symbol of affection and we have brought this alive in the new TV campaign.”

    Hershey India marketing director Sarosh Shetty said, “In India, we have created a strong and consistent Hershey’s brand that is now a leading player in every category that it is present in. The Kisses launch film is an extension of the Hershey’s brand promise in India. It celebrates the unique product proposition of Hershey’s Kisses. This delightful chocolate enables one to build a special bond with their loved ones. It is often about those simple, everyday ways to show you care – which often isn’t only words”   

    The TVC will be played on leading southern channels. This campaign will further be reinforced by an extensive 360-degree campaign across mediums.

  • Hershey Kisses will now be Made in India

    Hershey Kisses will now be Made in India

    MUMBAI: We’ve all been there where we ask our relatives and friends to bring us imported chocolates and candies from their trip abroad. Hershey’s Kisses have always been one such popular chocolate. The chocolates are distinct because of their unique shape and each one is delicately wrapped to make them perfect for sharing them with loved ones. 

    But you wont have to ask anyone to bring those scrumptious chocolates from abroad anymore. Hershey India, a part of The Hershey Company, a leading global snacking giant and the largest producer of quality chocolates in North America, has launched its iconic and much-loved Hershey’s Kisses chocolate brand in India. 

    Hershey’s Kisses will come in milk chocolate, almond and cookies ’n’ creme flavours. The Kisses range in India is the result of intensive R&D and consumer testing to develop the right taste profile for discerning Indian consumers who seek premium chocolates.

    And that’s why it wont taste like the Hershey Kisses you get in United States because the taste is different considering the Indian palate and weather conditions here.

    The Hershey Company president international Steven Schiller says, “There is a lot of potential for The Hershey Company in India. This market is an important part of our International growth model. The Hershey’s brand has been leading our India growth and Hershey’s Kisses is a wonderful way to continue that growth by tapping into the growing chocolate segment.”

    Hershey’s Kisses milk chocolate will be available at an attractive price point of Rs 50 and Rs 140. During the first phase of this launch, Hershey’s Kisses will be available only in South India at modern trade, large general trade and e-commerce in South India. The rational behind launching in South first is because the company has a strong base in south India and it contributes to one-third of the total chocolate consumption in India. 

    The company has a manufacturing plant in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh and the other two are run in Gujarat and Telangana.  The US-based chocolate and confectionery firm Hershey has committed to investing $50 million in India over the next five years to scale up its operations here. 

    The festive season has just embarked in India but Hershey does not plan on having festive and gifting options for its portfolio just as yet. Hershey India managing director Herjit Bhalla says, “We will consider gifting going forward but not at the moment as want to concentrate only on south market right now and increase the consumer base.”

    Steven Schiller thinks that there is more potential in India than there is in any other market right now because of the sheer size of the young population with strong economy that creates a ripe environment for people to partake in the snacking category.

    Without giving out any details, the multinational company announced that it is set to bring another product in India by the end of 2018. 

    Kisses will be marketed with an extensive 360 degree marketing plan including TVC, digital campaign, print, outdoor, sampling, in-store visibility.

    Globally, as many companies are reducing the sugar and salt content in their products to provide consumers a healthy and better alternative, Hershey believes in not changing the proportions and formulation too much. Steven Schiller mentions, “We spend a lot of time understand the trends and different types of products that people are interested in. I don't want to make commitments about the reduction because it also has to make commercial sense.”

    The journey of the Hershey’s brand in India started a decade ago with the introduction of the Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup and now has Sofit milk, chocolate spreads and Jolly Rancher candies. Globally, the company makes nearly 70 million Hershey’s Kisses every day that are sold in nearly 60 countries.

    The launch of Hershey’s Kisses might further fuel the growth of the Hershey’s brand in this country.

  • Hershey India appoints new supply chain director

    Hershey India appoints new supply chain director

    MUMBAI: Global confectionery and snacking company, Hershey, has appointed Partha Gangopadhyay as the new director for supply chain in India. 

    Partha Gangopadhyay takes over from Gunasekaran, who retires this year. Partha brings with him a rich experience of more than 24 years in all areas of manufacturing and supply chain such as production, quality assurance, maintenance, plant projects, R&D projects and multiple franchisee operations. He joins Hershey from Mondelez India Foods Private Ltd where he worked as associate director for integrated supply chain operations, central India cluster.

    Hershey India managing director Herjit Bhalla says, “I am delighted to welcome Partha to Hershey India. Partha brings with him a vast experience and keen insights on market dynamics and customer orientation. As we look to expand our presence across India and grow our portfolio in the country, I am sure that Partha will give us a strategic advantage in our supply chain management.”

    Commenting on his new role, Gangopadhyay mentions, “It gives me immense pride in taking up this new responsibility at a time when Hershey India is expanding its portfolio in the Indian FMCG industry. I look forward to making a fruitful contribution towards the efficiency, productivity, quality and progress of the company.”

    The company has more than 80 brands around the world that drive more than $7.5 billion in annual revenues, including such iconic brand names as Hershey’s, Reese’s, Hershey’s Kisses, Jolly Rancher, and Ice Breakers. Building on its core business, Hershey is expanding its portfolio to include a broader range of delicious snacks.

  • Sofit promotes energetic life in latest ad

    Sofit promotes energetic life in latest ad

    MUMBAI: Sofit, the soy milk brand from Hershey India, has released its latest ad featuring brand ambassador John Abraham.

    The new ad is aimed at strengthening Sofit’s proposition of ‘Healthy Energy to Do More’, given that it is fortified with protein, omega 3 and vitamins and comes in a range of delicious flavours. The ad shows Abraham as a relatable, multi-tasking contemporary professional and how Sofit, when made a part of balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, helps a person achieve that extra mile.

    The refreshed ad showcases a day in the life of a high achieving urban citizen who has to go through a packed schedule altering between workouts, meetings, deadlines and travel.

    Hershey India managing director of Sofit Herjit Bhalla says, “Sofit is a brand of strategic importance for Hershey India. Indians today are passionate about health and fitness and aim to have it all while juggling between work, travel and their passions. Sofit is an ideal drink to consume for anyone aiming for an active lifestyle. We have also recently introduced Sofit in a coffee mocha flavour, which can be consumed both hot and cold, for those who love a healthy wake-up brew.”

    Talking about the campaign, Hershey India marketing director Sarosh Shetty adds, “Sofit’s new campaign showcases a slice of life of the young multi-taskers and how Sofit provides the energy to do more across day parts. We are sure that this creative will be well received by the audience and will position Sofit as the source of healthy energy to help them in their journey of achieving more from life”

    Abraham, who has been the face of Sofit since the past few years, mentions, “It has been a great journey with Sofit and I am thrilled about the new look of the ad. The refreshed commercial is extremely relatable and relevant where I play the ‘everyday hero’ who must constantly oscillate between a gamut of tasks while being both, energetic and efficient. I truly believe that we are all a part of an increasingly demanding regime with no room for lethargy. Sofit personifies the same attributes of a healthy and active lifestyle allowing you to push the envelope by going the extra mile to achieve your goals.”

    Sofit enjoys a lion’s share in the soy milk category in India. It is considered a part of the repertoire of soy-based, convenient, delicious, beverages that provide protein, omega 3 and vitamins, which gives a person the energy to achieve that extra mile.

  • Hershey’s eyes India; to invest $50M in 5 years

    Hershey’s eyes India; to invest $50M in 5 years

    MUMBAI: The confectionary industry has emerged as one of the largest and well-developed food processing sectors of India. With international companies coming in and a stiff competition within Indian players to create a space for themselves, it is at an interesting juncture.

    Amidst all this, US confectionary giant The Hershey Co has announced that it will invest $50 million in India over the next five years to focus on growing and expanding their presence in India. “India is one of our key International focus markets and we are investing to build this important business,” says Hershey India chairman and managing director Praveen Jakate.

    India has emerged as the fastest growing market for the company, according to its recently announced its Q3 2017 global earnings and revenue. Hershey India recorded a strong double digit constant currency net sales growth, according to a statement from the company. As per the company’s Q3 2017 results, the constant currency net sales for Brazil in the third quarter increased by 3.3 per cent, while Mexico registered a net sales increased by 10 per cent. India outnumbered and recorded a net sales and growth of 16 per cent.

    Hershey’s sells 11 brand in India, including Hershey’s chocolate syrup, milkshake and chocolate almond spreads, along with Sofit soya milk and Jumpin juice, which it acquired from an erstwhile joint venture with Godrej Industries.

    The company plans to focus most of its investments now in brands owned by The Hershey Co. rather than in those brought from the joint venture, Jakate.

    “Our transition of the Indian portfolio is enabling a higher margin business, and we are on track to expand gross margins here by 1,000 basis points in 2017,” says Hershey chief financial officer Patricia A Little.

    In India, Hershey faces competition in the chocolate confectionary market from Mondelez, Mars, Snickers and Nestle.

    Market research firm Euromonitor expects the Indian market to grow at an 8 per cent compounded annual growth rate to be worth Rs16,000 crore by 2021.

  • Wow, exclaim kids at Hershey’s product

    Wow, exclaim kids at Hershey’s product

    MUMBAI: Wow Design, a strategic brand design consultancy, has associated with Hershey’s for strategising the packaging design for its new range of healthy flavored milkshakes.

    Evolving Indian consumers prefer richer, superior experiences when it comes to food and beverages as they are exposed to it on global excursions. The health foods category in India too is slowly evolving to meet with the consumers preferences.

    Wow Design is a strong believer in creating elegant and impactful packaging, as it’s the face of any brand and allows an interaction of only a few minutes with the consumers before they make up their mind.

    For Hershey’s product launch, Wow Design evaluated both – the current brand drivers and the challenges in launching a product that would appeal to both the buyer (mothers) and the consumer (Kids). These drivers were – existing equity with the consumers in delivering rich experience on taste, flavor and mouth feel and an aspirational imagery attached to the brand. The challenge was to find a fine balance between delight for kids and healthy goodness for mothers in a pack of milkshake while exhibited on the same shelf as its Indian competitors.

    A thoughtful decision was taken to leverage on the richness and consistency of the product to establish it as a milkshake versus the available flavored milk products. The designs stemmed from the core concept of it being the ultimate healthy milkshake that kids deserve.

    The final result was clean, yet communicative range of packs that retained the global appeal of the brand Hershey’s and connected effectively with the health-conscious Indian consumers.

    Wow Design partner and executive director Deepti Kshirsagar said, “The design strategy needs to work for the dual target audience – one the consumer and second the decision maker. Coming from an aspirational yet familiar international brand like Hershey’s, the trust aspect for the mothers and tastefulness for the kids could be taken care of with a prominent brand endorsement in the design. The challenge was to imbibe the healthy goodness of the product, as that becomes a primary concern for the mothers and impact decision making to a large extent. ”

    Wow Design partner and executive director Saswata Das said, “The rapid growth of the flavored milk beverages category in India has attracted many global players like Danone and even Coca-Cola to enter this segment. We helped Hersheys’s to take on the Indian players and charge a premium for their unique positioning and fortification benefit.”

  • Wow, exclaim kids at Hershey’s product

    Wow, exclaim kids at Hershey’s product

    MUMBAI: Wow Design, a strategic brand design consultancy, has associated with Hershey’s for strategising the packaging design for its new range of healthy flavored milkshakes.

    Evolving Indian consumers prefer richer, superior experiences when it comes to food and beverages as they are exposed to it on global excursions. The health foods category in India too is slowly evolving to meet with the consumers preferences.

    Wow Design is a strong believer in creating elegant and impactful packaging, as it’s the face of any brand and allows an interaction of only a few minutes with the consumers before they make up their mind.

    For Hershey’s product launch, Wow Design evaluated both – the current brand drivers and the challenges in launching a product that would appeal to both the buyer (mothers) and the consumer (Kids). These drivers were – existing equity with the consumers in delivering rich experience on taste, flavor and mouth feel and an aspirational imagery attached to the brand. The challenge was to find a fine balance between delight for kids and healthy goodness for mothers in a pack of milkshake while exhibited on the same shelf as its Indian competitors.

    A thoughtful decision was taken to leverage on the richness and consistency of the product to establish it as a milkshake versus the available flavored milk products. The designs stemmed from the core concept of it being the ultimate healthy milkshake that kids deserve.

    The final result was clean, yet communicative range of packs that retained the global appeal of the brand Hershey’s and connected effectively with the health-conscious Indian consumers.

    Wow Design partner and executive director Deepti Kshirsagar said, “The design strategy needs to work for the dual target audience – one the consumer and second the decision maker. Coming from an aspirational yet familiar international brand like Hershey’s, the trust aspect for the mothers and tastefulness for the kids could be taken care of with a prominent brand endorsement in the design. The challenge was to imbibe the healthy goodness of the product, as that becomes a primary concern for the mothers and impact decision making to a large extent. ”

    Wow Design partner and executive director Saswata Das said, “The rapid growth of the flavored milk beverages category in India has attracted many global players like Danone and even Coca-Cola to enter this segment. We helped Hersheys’s to take on the Indian players and charge a premium for their unique positioning and fortification benefit.”