For decades, Cella’s chocolate covered cherries have been a beloved treat, enjoyed by millions around the world. The combination of rich, velvety chocolate and sweet, plump cherries has become a classic, evoking feelings of nostalgia and satisfaction. However, behind the delicious taste and iconic brand, lies a complex history of ownership and production. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating story of who owns Cella’s chocolate covered cherries, exploring the company’s origins, evolution, and current status.
A Brief History of Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries
Cella’s chocolate covered cherries were first introduced in the 1920s by the Sussman family, who founded the Cella Chocolate Company in New York City. The Sussmans were pioneers in the confectionery industry, and their innovative approach to chocolate making quickly gained popularity. The original recipe for Cella’s chocolate covered cherries consisted of a proprietary blend of dark chocolate and cherries, which were carefully selected and processed to ensure the highest quality. Over the years, the company changed hands several times, with various owners contributing to the growth and success of the brand.
The Early Years: Sussman Family and the Founding of Cella Chocolate Company
The Sussman family played a crucial role in establishing Cella’s chocolate covered cherries as a staple in the American confectionery market. During the early years, the company focused on developing a strong reputation for quality and innovation, investing heavily in research and development. The Sussmans introduced new products and flavors, expanding the Cella’s brand to include a range of chocolate-covered fruits and nuts. This strategic approach helped the company to stay ahead of the competition and build a loyal customer base.
Expansion and Diversification
As the popularity of Cella’s chocolate covered cherries continued to grow, the company began to expand its operations and diversify its product line. The Sussmans invested in new manufacturing facilities, increasing production capacity and improving efficiency. The company also introduced new packaging and marketing strategies, aiming to appeal to a wider audience and increase brand visibility. These efforts paid off, and Cella’s chocolate covered cherries became a household name, enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
Changes in Ownership and Production
Over the years, Cella’s chocolate covered cherries have undergone significant changes in ownership and production. The company has been acquired and sold several times, with each new owner bringing their own vision and approach to the brand. Some notable changes include:
- In 1963, the Sussman family sold Cella Chocolate Company to the Beatrice Foods Company, a leading food manufacturer at the time. This acquisition marked a significant turning point in the company’s history, as Beatrice Foods invested heavily in modernizing production facilities and expanding distribution channels.
- In 1986, Beatrice Foods sold Cella Chocolate Company to the McCormick & Company, a global spice and flavorings company. Under McCormick’s ownership, Cella’s chocolate covered cherries continued to thrive, with the company introducing new products and flavors to the market.
Current Ownership and Production
Today, Cella’s chocolate covered cherries are owned by the Ferrara Candy Company, a leading manufacturer of confectionery products. Ferrara acquired Cella Chocolate Company in 2012, as part of its strategic expansion into the chocolate and fruit confectionery market. Under Ferrara’s ownership, Cella’s chocolate covered cherries continue to be produced using the original recipe and high-quality ingredients, ensuring that the brand’s legacy and reputation are maintained.
Quality Control and Manufacturing Process
Ferrara Candy Company is committed to upholding the highest standards of quality and excellence in the production of Cella’s chocolate covered cherries. The company’s manufacturing process involves a rigorous quality control system, ensuring that every cherry meets the required standards of taste, texture, and appearance. The chocolate used in Cella’s products is sourced from the finest cocoa beans, carefully selected and blended to create a unique and distinctive flavor profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the story of who owns Cella’s chocolate covered cherries is a complex and fascinating one, spanning decades of history and evolution. From its humble beginnings as a family-owned business to its current status as a leading brand in the confectionery industry, Cella’s has remained true to its core values of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. As the brand continues to thrive under the ownership of Ferrara Candy Company, fans of Cella’s chocolate covered cherries can rest assured that the tradition of excellence and delicious taste will endure for generations to come. Whether you are a long-time enthusiast or just discovering the joy of Cella’s chocolate covered cherries, there is no denying the enduring appeal of this beloved treat.
What is the history of Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries?
The history of Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries dates back to the early 20th century when the company was founded by Victor Cella. At that time, the company started producing high-quality confections, including chocolate-covered cherries, which quickly gained popularity due to their unique taste and texture. Over the years, Cella’s has continued to innovate and expand its product line while maintaining the traditional recipe and quality that made the chocolate-covered cherries a favorite among consumers.
The company’s commitment to quality and tradition has enabled it to maintain a loyal customer base and expand its distribution channels. Today, Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries can be found in many retail stores and online platforms, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers. Despite changes in ownership and management over the years, the company has continued to uphold the standards set by its founder, ensuring that every chocolate-covered cherry that leaves the factory meets the highest quality standards. This dedication to quality and tradition has helped Cella’s establish itself as a leader in the confectionery industry.
Who is the current owner of Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries?
The current owner of Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries is Ferrara Candy Company, a leading manufacturer of confections in the United States. Ferrara acquired Cella’s in 2012, adding the brand to its portfolio of well-known confectionery brands. Under Ferrara’s ownership, Cella’s has continued to operate independently, maintaining its unique brand identity and traditional manufacturing processes. This approach has allowed Cella’s to retain its loyal customer base while benefiting from Ferrara’s resources and expertise in the confectionery industry.
As a subsidiary of Ferrara, Cella’s has been able to expand its distribution channels and invest in new manufacturing technologies, enabling the company to increase production capacity and meet the growing demand for its products. Ferrara’s ownership has also facilitated collaboration between Cella’s and other brands within the Ferrara portfolio, leading to the development of new products and flavors that combine the best of Cella’s traditional recipes with innovative ingredients and manufacturing techniques. This strategic approach has helped Cella’s maintain its market position and continue to grow as a leading brand in the confectionery industry.
What makes Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries unique?
Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries are unique due to their traditional recipe and high-quality ingredients. The company uses a special blend of cherry juice and corn syrup to create the cherry center, which is then covered in a layer of rich, velvety chocolate. This combination of flavors and textures creates a truly distinctive taste experience that sets Cella’s apart from other chocolate-covered cherry brands. Additionally, Cella’s is committed to using only the finest ingredients, ensuring that every chocolate-covered cherry meets the highest standards of quality and taste.
The unique manufacturing process used by Cella’s also contributes to the distinctive character of its chocolate-covered cherries. The company still uses many traditional techniques, such as hand-stirring and small-batch production, to ensure that every cherry is coated in the perfect amount of chocolate. This attention to detail and commitment to quality has enabled Cella’s to build a loyal customer base and establish itself as a premium brand in the confectionery industry. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Cella’s or just discovering the brand, the unique taste and quality of its chocolate-covered cherries are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Are Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries available online?
Yes, Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries are available for purchase online through various retailers and the company’s official website. Ferrara, the parent company of Cella’s, has invested heavily in e-commerce platforms, making it easy for consumers to buy Cella’s products from the comfort of their own homes. Online shoppers can choose from a range of products, including classic chocolate-covered cherries, gift boxes, and seasonal specials. With fast and reliable shipping, online customers can enjoy Cella’s delicious confections no matter where they live.
In addition to the official Cella’s website, the company’s products are also available through major online retailers, such as Amazon and Walmart. These partnerships have helped Cella’s expand its reach and make its products more accessible to a wider audience. Online customers can also take advantage of special promotions, discounts, and loyalty programs, making it even easier to indulge in Cella’s delicious chocolate-covered cherries. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or looking for a gift, Cella’s online presence makes it easy to find and purchase your favorite products.
Can I find Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries in stores?
Yes, Cella’s Chocolate Covered Cherries are widely available in stores across the United States. The company’s products can be found in many major retail chains, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and specialty candy shops. Cella’s has a strong distribution network, ensuring that its products are stocked in stores throughout the country. Consumers can check the company’s website for a store locator tool, which makes it easy to find nearby retailers that carry Cella’s products.
In addition to national retail chains, Cella’s products are also available in many independent candy stores and specialty food shops. These smaller retailers often carry a wide range of Cella’s products, including seasonal and limited-edition items that can’t be found in larger stores. By visiting these specialty stores, consumers can discover new and exciting Cella’s products, such as gourmet gift boxes and unique flavor combinations. Whether you’re shopping at a major retail chain or a small, independent store, you’re sure to find Cella’s delicious chocolate-covered cherries on the shelves.
Does Cella’s offer any seasonal or limited-edition products?
Yes, Cella’s offers a range of seasonal and limited-edition products throughout the year. The company is known for its creative and delicious flavor combinations, which are often released in conjunction with holidays and special events. For example, Cella’s might release a special Valentine’s Day assortment or a summer-themed gift box featuring cherry and citrus flavors. These limited-edition products are highly anticipated by Cella’s fans and often sell out quickly, making them a fun and exciting way to experience the brand’s unique flavors and traditions.
Cella’s also collaborates with other brands and companies to create unique and exclusive products. For instance, the company might partner with a popular dessert brand to create a special co-branded gift box or a limited-edition flavor combination. These collaborations are a great way for Cella’s to innovate and stay relevant in the market, while also offering its loyal customers something new and exciting to try. By following Cella’s on social media or signing up for its email newsletter, fans can stay up-to-date on the latest seasonal and limited-edition products and be among the first to try these unique and delicious treats.
Is Cella’s committed to sustainability and social responsibility?
Yes, Cella’s and its parent company, Ferrara, are committed to sustainability and social responsibility. The company recognizes the importance of minimizing its environmental impact and promoting social and economic development in the communities where it operates. To achieve these goals, Cella’s has implemented a range of sustainability initiatives, such as reducing energy consumption, waste reduction, and sourcing ingredients from environmentally responsible suppliers. The company also supports various community development programs and charitable initiatives, demonstrating its commitment to making a positive impact on society.
As a responsible business, Cella’s is dedicated to transparency and accountability in its sustainability and social responsibility efforts. The company publishes regular reports on its progress and setbacks, providing stakeholders with a clear understanding of its challenges and accomplishments. By prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility, Cella’s aims to create long-term value for its customers, employees, and the environment, while also contributing to a more equitable and sustainable food system. This commitment to responsible business practices is an integral part of Cella’s brand identity and values, and the company will continue to strive for excellence in these areas.