While we strive to make candy purchasing easier, we never forget our roots, all the more so since three generations of the same family have run this company since we opened our doors in 1927.
McKeesport Candy Co. holds the distinction of launching the nation's FIRST private-label bag candy in the 1950s, marketed under the charming name "Todd's Kiddie Favorites."
Jerry Prince, the second-generation owner, came up with the idea as his two small children, whom he referred to as his "kiddies," always wanted him to bring home a bag of assorted penny candy.
As the philosopher Plato said, "Necessity is the mother of invention," and Jerry, an ever-efficient man, had his secretary make small premade bags to save time.
It later dawned on him that if McKeesport Candy Co. could produce large quantities of prepackaged bags of "kiddie candy," and offer them to retail stores, it would save time for parents having to pick through penny candy displays and allow retailers the opportunity to sell something that, at that time, was truly unique!
This move marked a significant shift in the candy wholesale industry, offering prepackaged sweets for sale directly to candy stores and consumers through a private label brand.
Over the years, the line evolved and was rebranded several times, first as "Todd's Candy" in the 1970s. However, one of the great mysteries of McKeesport Candy Co. is why the name "Todds" was chosen.
The bag candy line was rebranded again in early 2015 and became "Candy Favorites" to represent our growing online candy brand. We also started offering bag candy in different formats, including tie-top bags and hand-packed flat bags.
These innovations not only positioned McKeesport Candy Co. as a pioneer in branded bagged candy but also paved the way for its success selling to upscale gift shops and retailers throughout Western Pennsylvania and beyond, establishing a legacy that endures to this day.
To shop our extensive selection of CandyFavorites Bag Candy, please click HERE.
