The Supply Side briefs: Hershey’s launch, Tree-House purchase

• Hershey’s introduces new Lancaster brand
It’s been three decades since Hershey’s has added a new candy brand to its product list, but come January consumers will see Lancaster Creams as a confectionery choice in the candy isle.

Hershey’s announced the new caramel brand last week, named for Milton Hershey’s first candy business — the Lancaster Caramel Company.

“The launch of Lancaster Soft Cremes takes Hershey’s back to the early days of our founder Milton Hershey and his truly innovative spirit and desire to make great tasting, high quality products for consumers.” said Steven Schiller, senior VP of sweets and refreshment.

The Lancaster brand was launched in China earlier this year and will debut in U.S. stores behind a robust marketing campaign in January. The candy will be sold in 8-ounce and 4-ounce bags to start.

Hershey’s is supplier to Wal-Mart Stores Inc. and operates a large sales office in Bentonville.

• Tree-House Food completes deal with Associated Brands
TreeHouse Foods Inc. recently completed its acquisition of Associated Brands, a private label manufacturer of powdered drinks, specialty teas and sweeteners from TorQuest Partners and other shareholders. 



Associated Brands had sales of approximately $200 million for the twelve months ended June 30. TreeHouse paid approximately $180 million in cash for the business, subject to an adjustment for working capital.

Tree-House Food, a division of Bay Valley Food is a supplier to Wal-Mart Stores Inc. with a local sales office.