After 54 years, Ferrara Candy Company has decided to discontinue Fruit Stripe Gum, citing consumer preferences and purchasing patterns as factors in the decision. The iconic gum, known for its short-lived but beloved flavors and temporary tattoos, has sparked nostalgic despair and jokes among fans. While Fruit Stripe Gum may no longer be available, Ferrara assures the public that it will continue offering other beloved brands, including Nerds, which is set to air its first Super Bowl commercial during Super Bowl 58.
Family-owned jelly bean company Jelly Belly has been sold to Ferrara Candy Company, known for producing candies like Nerds and Sweetarts. The sale price has not been disclosed, but the deal is expected to be finalized by the end of the year. Jelly Belly will remain in Fairfield, and local jobs are expected to be preserved. In a separate deal, Canadian billionaire Stephan Crétier purchased Vine Cliff Winery in Napa for $57 million, adding to his portfolio of wineries in the region. Half Moon Bay restaurant Johnny's faced criticism for adding an 18 percent "festival service charge" during the town's Art & Pumpkin Festival. The new California law banning mandatory service fees has sparked discussions in the restaurant industry. Oakland's Burdell is hosting its first winemaker dinner featuring La Onda winemaker Dani Rozman, offering a five-course meal paired with fall harvest wines.
The Ferrara Candy Company has announced its acquisition of the Jelly Belly Candy Company, a family-owned business known for its jelly beans. The deal involves nearly 800 Jelly Belly employees and facilities in California, Illinois, and Thailand. The sale's impact on Jelly Belly's factory in Fairfield, California, and its workers remains unclear. Jeff Brown, the current executive vice president of global operations and distribution, will become the CEO of Jelly Belly Candy Company. The sale is expected to be finalized by the end of the year.
