Hershey Launches Shaq-A-Licious Slams Gummy Line
Hershey is catering to the demand for multi-textured and gamified candy experiences with the expansion of its Shaq-A-Licious gummy line. The company, based in Pennsylvania, is introducing Shaq-A-Licious Slams, featuring chewy, sour mango rings and gummy balls coated in crunchy candies. The gummy balls come in watermelon, strawberry, and orange flavors.
Consumers can enjoy an interactive experience by dunking the basketball-shaped gummies into the mango rings, creating a unique flavor combination. Vivek Mehrotra, senior brand manager for Shaq-A-Licious at Hershey, described the new product as a game-changer in candy innovation, offering a multi-textural bite unlike anything else in the gummy aisle.
Hershey’s expansion into the gummies sector aligns with its strategy to diversify its product offerings beyond its traditional chocolate bars and candies. The collaboration with basketball star Shaquille O’Neal has led to the launch of Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies and the introduction of Jolly Rancher hard candy into the category.
Shaq-A-Licious Slams will be available on retail shelves this month, with O’Neal actively involved in the development of the products, from flavors to packaging. The growing popularity of gummies among consumers of all ages, from nostalgic millennials to younger Gen Z individuals, has driven Hershey’s innovation in this space.
The surge in gummy consumption during the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the appeal of these treats as comfort snacks for consumers. Companies like Hershey and Ferrara have leveraged gummies as a platform for innovation, introducing unique textures and flavor combinations to attract consumers.
One notable success story is Ferrara’s Nerds Gummy Clusters, which have significantly boosted overall brand sales. The confectionery industry’s focus on playful and interactive candy offerings, such as Bazooka Brands’ Juicy Drop Gummy Mystery Cube, reflects a trend towards engaging consumers beyond just the taste experience.
As candy companies continue to explore new ways to captivate consumers, the evolution of gummies as a versatile and entertaining snack option is reshaping the confectionery market landscape.