The iconic Conversation Hearts, also known as Sweethearts, have been a staple of Valentine’s Day celebrations for over a century. These small, heart-shaped candies with cute messages have been a favorite among people of all ages. However, in recent years, there has been some uncertainty about the future of these beloved treats. In this article, we will delve into the history of Necco and Conversation Hearts, explore the challenges the company faced, and ultimately answer the question: does Necco still make Conversation Hearts?
A Brief History of Necco and Conversation Hearts
The New England Confectionery Company, commonly known as Necco, was founded in 1847 by Oliver Chase. Initially, the company produced a variety of candies, including Necco Wafers, which became a huge success. In 1866, Daniel Chase, Oliver’s brother, invented a machine that could print phrases onto the candies, and the first Conversation Hearts were born. The original messages were quite long and poetic, but over time, they evolved into the short, sweet phrases we know and love today.
The Golden Age of Conversation Hearts
During the mid-20th century, Conversation Hearts became a cultural phenomenon. They were a must-have at Valentine’s Day parties, and their popularity soared. The candies were produced in a variety of colors and flavors, and the messages became more playful and fun. It was not uncommon to see phrases like “Be Mine,” “I Love You,” and “You’re Sweet” on the hearts. The company continued to innovate, introducing new flavors and messages, and Conversation Hearts remained a beloved treat for generations.
Challenges and Changes
In the early 2000s, Necco began to face significant challenges. The company was struggling financially, and the rise of new candy manufacturers and changing consumer preferences made it difficult for Necco to compete. In 2018, the company announced that it would be closing its doors and ceasing production of all its candies, including Conversation Hearts. This news sent shockwaves through the candy industry and left fans of the iconic treats heartbroken.
The Revival of Conversation Hearts
In September 2018, the Spangler Candy Company, the manufacturer of Dum Dums lollipops, announced that it had acquired the Necco brand and would be reviving the production of Conversation Hearts. The company invested heavily in updating the manufacturing process and introducing new flavors and messages. In 2020, Spangler released a new line of Conversation Hearts, featuring modern phrases like “Text Me” and “BFF.”
What’s New and What’s Next
Under the new ownership, Conversation Hearts have undergone a significant transformation. The company has introduced new flavors, such as blue raspberry and strawberry, and has expanded the range of messages to include more diverse and inclusive phrases. Spangler has also made a commitment to using high-quality ingredients and reducing the environmental impact of the manufacturing process.
Sustainability Efforts
Spangler has implemented several sustainability initiatives, including reducing waste, conserving energy, and using eco-friendly packaging. The company has also partnered with organizations that support environmental conservation and social responsibility. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to not only producing delicious candies but also to making a positive impact on the community and the environment.
Conclusion
So, does Necco still make Conversation Hearts? The answer is no, Necco itself does not produce Conversation Hearts anymore. However, the brand and the iconic candies have been revived by the Spangler Candy Company. Under new ownership, Conversation Hearts continue to evolve and thrive. With new flavors, messages, and a commitment to sustainability, these beloved treats are sure to remain a favorite among candy lovers for generations to come.
The story of Conversation Hearts is a testament to the power of innovation, perseverance, and the human spirit. From their humble beginnings to their current status as a cultural phenomenon, these small, heart-shaped candies have captured the hearts of people around the world. As we look to the future, one thing is certain: Conversation Hearts will continue to be a sweet and meaningful way to express our feelings and connect with others.
In terms of availability, Conversation Hearts can be found in stores and online, and they are still a popular treat during Valentine’s Day and other celebrations. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering the joy of Conversation Hearts, there’s never been a better time to indulge in these delicious and iconic candies. So go ahead, treat yourself or someone special to a bag of Conversation Hearts, and experience the magic of these beloved treats for yourself.
To summarize the main points, the key information about Necco and Conversation Hearts can be found in the following list:
- Necco was founded in 1847 by Oliver Chase and initially produced a variety of candies, including Necco Wafers.
- Conversation Hearts were invented in 1866 by Daniel Chase and originally featured long, poetic messages.
- The company faced significant challenges in the early 2000s and ceased production in 2018.
- The Spangler Candy Company acquired the Necco brand and revived the production of Conversation Hearts in 2020.
- Under new ownership, Conversation Hearts have undergone a significant transformation, featuring new flavors, messages, and a commitment to sustainability.
Additionally, the following table highlights some of the new features and initiatives introduced by Spangler:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| New Flavors | Blue raspberry and strawberry |
| New Messages | Modern phrases like “Text Me” and “BFF,” as well as more diverse and inclusive phrases |
| Sustainability Efforts | Reducing waste, conserving energy, and using eco-friendly packaging |
By exploring the history, challenges, and revival of Conversation Hearts, we can appreciate the significance of these iconic candies and the impact they have on our culture and traditions. Whether you’re a fan of the classic phrases or the new, modern messages, Conversation Hearts are sure to remain a beloved treat for years to come.
What happened to Necco and its Conversation Hearts?
Necco, or the New England Confectionery Company, was a well-known manufacturer of candies, including the iconic Conversation Hearts. However, in 2018, the company faced significant financial difficulties, which led to its closure. The news of Necco’s potential demise sent shockwaves among fans of the brand, particularly those who cherished the Conversation Hearts. The company’s closure raised concerns about the future of these beloved candies.
The closure of Necco led to a significant amount of uncertainty regarding the production of Conversation Hearts. Fortunately, the brand and its assets were acquired by the Spangler Candy Company, which has since resumed production of the iconic candies. Spangler has ensured that the traditional recipe and manufacturing process for Conversation Hearts remain unchanged, providing fans of the brand with a sense of relief and continuity. As a result, Conversation Hearts continue to be widely available, particularly around Valentine’s Day, when they are in highest demand.
Are Conversation Hearts still widely available?
Conversation Hearts are indeed still widely available, thanks to the efforts of the Spangler Candy Company. After acquiring the Necco brand, Spangler worked diligently to resume production of the iconic candies, ensuring that they would continue to be a part of many people’s holiday traditions. Today, Conversation Hearts can be found in stores and online retailers across the United States, often in the same familiar packaging and with the same endearing messages that have made them a beloved treat for generations.
The widespread availability of Conversation Hearts is a testament to the enduring popularity of the brand and the dedication of the Spangler Candy Company to preserving the legacy of Necco. Whether you’re looking to purchase Conversation Hearts for personal consumption or as a gift, you can rest assured that they are readily available. Many retailers offer Conversation Hearts in a variety of sizes and packaging options, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your needs. With their iconic status and widespread availability, Conversation Hearts remain a staple of American candy culture.
Have the ingredients or recipe for Conversation Hearts changed?
The ingredients and recipe for Conversation Hearts have remained largely unchanged since the Spangler Candy Company acquired the Necco brand. Spangler has committed to preserving the traditional recipe and manufacturing process that has made Conversation Hearts a beloved treat for generations. This means that the iconic candies continue to be made with the same care and attention to detail that fans of the brand have come to expect.
The decision to maintain the traditional recipe and ingredients has been well-received by fans of the brand, who appreciate the effort to preserve the authenticity of Conversation Hearts. By sticking to the original recipe, Spangler has ensured that the iconic candies retain their distinctive taste and texture, which are an integral part of their enduring appeal. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Conversation Hearts or just discovering them, you can enjoy the same classic taste and experience that has made them a staple of American candy culture.
Can I still purchase Conversation Hearts with custom messages?
While the traditional Conversation Hearts with pre-printed messages are still widely available, the option to purchase custom Conversation Hearts with personalized messages is more limited. In the past, Necco offered a service that allowed customers to create custom Conversation Hearts with their own messages, but this service is no longer available. However, some online retailers and candy stores may offer custom Conversation Hearts or similar products with personalized messages.
For those looking to create custom Conversation Hearts, there are still some alternatives available. Some companies specialize in creating custom candies, including Conversation Hearts, with personalized messages. These services often require a minimum order quantity and may have limited production capacity, but they can provide a unique and thoughtful way to express your feelings or celebrate a special occasion. Additionally, some crafty individuals have taken to creating their own custom Conversation Hearts using DIY methods, which can be a fun and creative way to personalize your candies.
How has the acquisition by Spangler affected the quality of Conversation Hearts?
The acquisition of Necco by the Spangler Candy Company has had a positive impact on the quality of Conversation Hearts. Spangler has invested significant resources in preserving the traditional recipe and manufacturing process, ensuring that the iconic candies retain their distinctive taste and texture. The company’s commitment to quality has been well-received by fans of the brand, who appreciate the effort to maintain the high standards that Necco was known for.
The quality of Conversation Hearts has remained consistent, with many fans of the brand reporting that they are unable to detect any significant differences between the pre-acquisition and post-acquisition products. Spangler’s dedication to preserving the traditional recipe and manufacturing process has helped to ensure that Conversation Hearts continue to meet the high expectations of consumers. With their iconic status and commitment to quality, Conversation Hearts remain a beloved treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Are Conversation Hearts available in different flavors and sizes?
Conversation Hearts are available in a variety of flavors and sizes, catering to different tastes and preferences. The traditional Conversation Hearts are available in a range of flavors, including the classic pastel colors and flavors, as well as some limited-edition flavors that are released from time to time. In addition to the traditional flavors, Conversation Hearts are also available in various sizes, ranging from small bags to large containers, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your needs.
The availability of different flavors and sizes has helped to keep Conversation Hearts fresh and exciting, even after all these years. Whether you’re looking for a classic treat or something new and unique, there’s a Conversation Hearts product to suit your tastes. Some retailers also offer specialty Conversation Hearts products, such as sugar-free or gluten-free options, which can be a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions. With their iconic status and wide range of flavors and sizes, Conversation Hearts remain a staple of American candy culture.
Can I purchase Conversation Hearts year-round or only during holidays?
While Conversation Hearts are most closely associated with Valentine’s Day, they can be purchased year-round from some retailers. However, the availability of Conversation Hearts may vary depending on the retailer and the time of year. Many stores only carry Conversation Hearts during the winter months, leading up to Valentine’s Day, while others may offer them year-round.
For those looking to purchase Conversation Hearts outside of the traditional holiday season, online retailers may be a good option. Many online stores carry Conversation Hearts year-round, making it easy to get your fix of these iconic candies whenever you want. Additionally, some specialty candy stores or retro candy shops may also carry Conversation Hearts year-round, catering to fans of the brand who want to enjoy them at any time. With their enduring popularity, Conversation Hearts can be enjoyed at any time of the year, not just during holidays.