Longterm SFA member Melville Candy is a family-owned confectionery company that has been crafting sweets for generations. From novelty treats and seasonal favorites to trend-driven flavor innovation, the company balances tradition with fresh ideas to meet the demands of today’s retailers and end customers.
As the specialty industry gears up for some of the year’s next big selling seasons, Melville Candy shares insights on Halloween trends, holiday planning, and evolving consumer preferences, along with what they're most excited about as they prepare to return to Winter FancyFaire* 2027 in San Francisco.
Melville Candy has been creating sweets for generations. What has helped the brand stay relevant and continue finding new fans over the years?
We are always innovating with trends and flavors to stay ahead. We pride ourselves on the quality and attention to detail that goes into each piece of candy made here in our Boston, MA factory.
Halloween is one of the biggest candy moments of the year. What products are proving especially popular this season, and what makes them stand out?
Halloween is always a special time of year. Fun novelty items on a stick still prove to sell well at all channels given its uniqueness and fun around the holiday. My kids’ personal favorite is the monster marshmallow.
Seasonal products are a huge part of your business. How far in advance do you start planning for holidays, and what goes into deciding what's next?
The planning process starts 18-24 months in advance internally. Working with such great customers, it is a team effort to collaborate and adapt to the next trend and product match.
What are you seeing from today's shoppers when it comes to candy and gifting? Are there any trends that have surprised you?
The customer is still willing to spend premium dollar for an indulgence. Texture, convenience, functionality and health conscious are all becoming more important factors to the consumer.
You'll be exhibiting at Winter FancyFaire* 2027. What are you most looking forward to about the show?
Melville Candy has participated in this show for many years now. It will be nice to be back in San Francisco again where so many memories started for me at the company 12 years ago.
Don’t miss the Melville Candy booth (#1457) at Winter FancyFaire* 2027, where you can sample on-trend confections including chocolate-covered protein pretzels, nostalgic dipped marshmallows, and more.