Innovation

Crafting the Future of Confectionary

Innovation is the practice of reimagining the way things have been done in service of something better, and this is what keeps us buzzing. Our passion is in perfecting the art of sugar and exploring its every possibility. For us, innovation is a mindset and our driving force. It's the sugar rush of knowing we're creating for consumers exactly what they want next in candy.

Research & Development

Consumer-Inspired, Candy-Led

Every new product is inspired by what excites and delights candy lovers (us included!). The R&D approach of Ferrara® marries consumer tastes with our candy expertise to bring new ideas to life. Our process focuses on the entire candy experience — how it tastes, looks, and feels — to craft irresistible treats for all to enjoy.

Research & Insights

Our team dives deep into what excites our consumers through focus groups and sensory evaluations. This understanding is the starting point of all new ideas, which we then bring to life through an iterative and unique process. With our consumers as the guiding light, we ensure that every innovation fulfills our promise to find fresh ways to deliver delight.

Growth & Strategy

Our deep understanding of sugar and its endless possibilities fuels our growth. With unmatched expertise in the sugar industry, we continue to expand our manufacturing processes and solidify our position as a global leader. Our ability to create and innovate with confectionery is unparalleled — call us candy engineers.

We now sell our products in over 40 countries thanks to an operational network that spans the Western Hemisphere. As we look to the future, we're excited to share our sugar confections with the world.

Ideation

We start by listening to consumers, then refine ideas through design thinking and rapid prototyping until we land on the perfect product for the shelf.

Development

Then, we leverage our candy-making expertise and Innovation Center to come up with the just-right recipe and design that stays true to the idea’s intention.

Launch

Our expertise is evident in a candy-making process that goes beyond typical candy product development to truly innovate in ways that can surprise and delight our consumers.

State-of-The-Art Facilities

Where Fantasy Becomes Reality

In 2023, we opened a state-of-the-art Innovation Center in downtown Chicago, home to a team of food scientists, researchers, and technicians employing cutting-edge technologies and systems. With our in-house Innovation Lab, Innovation Kitchen, and Sensory Booth, we’re able to bring ideas to life swiftly and continuously drive the industry forward.

Talent

Case Study

The ascent of Nerds® Gummy Clusters

NERDS® candy exists to transform the everyday, which means its delightful potential is limitless. By combining these beloved tiny, tangy, crunchy candy® with a sweet, chewy gummy, we unleashed a multi-sensorial experience that’s perfectly poppable. This award-winning innovation immediately captivated taste buds nationwide and is now the #1 candy in the US.

Visit NERDS®