A Classic Since 1907
HERSHEY'S KISSES brand chocolates, a little product with a big future, were first introduced in 1907. While it's not
known exactly how HERSHEY'S KISSES chocolates got their name, it is a popular theory that the candy was named for
the sound or motion of the chocolate being deposited during the manufacturing process.
Machine Wrapping - 1921
The basic concept of the present - day HERSHEY'S KISSES wrapping machines dates back to a single channel wrapper
developed in August 1921. The familiar HERSHEY'S KISSES flag was added to the product at this time. Before these
automated wrapping machines, the chocolates were individually hand - wrapped. Today's wrapping machines can
wrap up to 1,300 HERSHEY'S KISSES chocolates a minute!
The Famous Plume - 1924
Milton S. Hershey, the corporation's founder, obtained a registered trademark for the "plume" extending out of the
wrapper in 1924.
Production Interrupted - 1942
The production of HERSHEY'S KISSES brand chocolates has been interrupted only once since its inception in 1907.
The bite - size chocolates were not produced from 1942 to 1949 due to the rationing of silver foil during and after
World War II. During the war, the ingredient mixing units in the moulding department were utilized for tempering
military ration bar chocolate paste. It is estimated that paste for more than 3 billion ration units was produced
during this period.
A Splash of Color - 1962-1968
HERSHEY'S KISSES brand chocolates were wrapped in colored foil (other than silver) for the first time in 1962. Red,
green and silver KISSES brand chocolates were available during the Christmas season in addition to the year-round
silver-wrapped ones. Today, HERSHEY'S KISSES brand chocolates are "dressed-up" for a number of seasonal
occasions. In 1968, pastel blue, pink and green foils were introduced for the Easter holiday. Hershey also introduced
red and silver foils for Valentine's in 1986 and Fall Harvest KISSES brand chocolates in 1991.
Obtaining a Trademark - 1976
A registered trademark for the configuration of HERSHEY'S KISSES brand chocolates with their familiar foil wrap was
established in 1976.
Coming to Canada - 1985
HERSHEY'S KISSES chocolates were first launched in Canada in 1985 and quickly became a Canadian favourite.
Product Variations - 1990-1998
In September 1990, there was a major addition to the HERSHEY'S KISSES franchise when KISSES brand chocolates
with almonds were introduced. In 1993, Hershey introduced HERSHEY'S HUGS chocolates -- milk chocolate
HERSHEY'S KISSES candies hugged by white crème. In 1998, HERSHEY'S KISSES with almonds were introduced to
Canada.
Limited Editions - 2002
Hershey has responded to consumers' interest in variety. In 2002, the first HERSHEY'S KISSES brand chocolates
Limited Editions were offered. Limited Editions are changed every year and have included such flavors as rich dark,
toffee with almonds, extra creamy, double fudge, strawberry crème and mint chocolate.
A Centennial - 2007
The HERSHEY'S KISSES brand celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2007!
Smoother & Creamier - 2010
In 2010, a new smoother and creamier HERSHEY'S KISSES milk chocolate was launched specifically for the Canadian
market.
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