Chicago is inviting residents and visitors alike to embrace their local pride this Halloween by purchasing candy made in the region. On October 21, 2025, World Business Chicago (WBC) launched a campaign encouraging everyone in the Chicagoland area to support local candy manufacturers, highlighting the significant impact of these purchases on the local economy and community.
From iconic brands like Tootsie Rolls and Snickers to beloved local specialties such as Garrett Mix and HARIBO Goldbears, Chicago’s candy industry is a vital part of the city’s identity. According to the WBC, buying Chicago-made sweets not only adds to the festive spirit of trick-or-treating but also helps preserve jobs and strengthen local families.
David Boulay, President of the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center, emphasized the importance of supporting local businesses. He stated, “When people buy locally made candy, they’re doing more than satisfying a sweet tooth — they’re helping sustain good jobs, strengthen local supply chains, and keep Chicago’s proud manufacturing heritage alive.” Each purchase contributes to a legacy that has shaped the city for over a century.
Chicago’s Candy Legacy and Economic Impact
Chicago’s relationship with candy dates back to the kitchens of immigrant entrepreneurs who introduced traditional recipes from their homelands. By the mid-20th century, Chicago had emerged as the “Candy Capital of America,” producing over 556 million pounds of confectionery each year. A combination of a skilled workforce and strategic location made the city ideal for candy production.
Historian Beth Kimmerle noted, “Chicago became the melting pot of candy. Literally, the copper pot became the melting pot of candy.” Many of the city’s original candy makers have evolved into globally recognized brands, contributing to local pride and community building.
Today, companies such as Ferrara Candy Company, founded in 1908, produce popular treats like Red Hots and Lemonheads, while Mars Wrigley continues to innovate with products like Snickers and M&M’s. Other notable companies include Brach’s, known for its classic Candy Corn, and Tootsie Roll Industries, which produces more than 64 million Tootsie Rolls daily.
These manufacturers employ thousands in the region, reinforcing the significance of the candy economy. WBC reported that candy production alone generates over $1.6 billion in economic impact across the Chicagoland area, supporting jobs and livelihoods.
The Future of Candy in Chicagoland
The call to support local candy makers aligns with WBC’s recent Chicago Venture Summit, which focused on the future of food innovation. The summit unveiled a report indicating that Chicagoland is the leading food manufacturing hub in the United States, with an annual output of $11.8 billion and over 72,000 employees in the food and beverage sector.
The candy manufacturing sector is expected to experience a growth of 6% by 2030, showcasing its resilience and importance in the local economy. Furthermore, the sugar and confections industry contributed $1.1 billion to the region’s GDP since 2017, highlighting its crucial role in the broader food landscape.
As Halloween approaches, World Business Chicago is encouraging everyone to choose local treats. The campaign aims to raise awareness of the impact of buying locally while fostering community spirit. Residents can share their favorite local candy purchases on social media using the hashtags #SweetHomeChicago and #ChicagolandCandyland.
World Business Chicago remains dedicated to driving inclusive economic growth and job creation, reinforcing Chicago’s status as a global leader in the candy and snack industry. By supporting local candy producers, consumers are not only indulging in sweet treats but also contributing to a vibrant community legacy.
