Core Insights - Hershey's Kisses has evolved a 35-year-old television commercial into a multi-platform digital experience, partnering with NBC for the Rockefeller Center holiday tree lighting event [2][4] - The collaboration aims to blend nostalgia with innovation, showcasing Hershey's strategy of engaging modern consumers through experiential retail [4][5] - Hershey's approach includes leveraging social media for product ideas, resulting in successful launches and maintaining relevance in the market [6][8] Financial Performance - Hershey reported nearly flat sales year-over-year in 2024, but gross margin increased by 6.1% and profits grew by 13.2% [7] - The company achieved 6.5% net sales growth in the third quarter, driven by successful innovation launches and strategic pricing initiatives [7] - Despite challenges from elevated cocoa prices and tariffs, Hershey raised its full-year guidance, indicating confidence in returning to normalized growth by 2026 [7][9] Innovation and Market Strategy - Hershey has delivered five of the top ten innovations in the candy-mint-gum category this year, reflecting a broader transformation within the company [5] - The introduction of new flavors and collaborations, such as the Reese's Oreo, has driven significant sales, with $25 million generated in the first five weeks post-launch [6] - The company's strategy focuses on balancing timeless brand stories with contemporary storytelling to engage new generations [6][9]

Core Insights - JAKKS Pacific, Inc. has partnered with The Hershey Company to introduce a new line of dolls and collectibles inspired by Hershey's popular confectionery brands, marking a unique expansion into the confection-themed toy market [2][3] Product Details - The new collection will feature eight SKUs, including dolls inspired by Hershey's Kisses, Jolly Rancher, Reese's, Bubble Yum, Twizzlers, and Hershey's Syrup, each accompanied by themed charms and accessories [3] - The first product, Hershey's Kisses collectibles, will launch exclusively at CVS on December 26, 2025, in time for Valentine's Day, with the partnership set to run until December 31, 2026, with an option for extension [4] Market Positioning - The collaboration aims to blend the appeal of delicious treats with self-expression, enhancing the trendy nature of JAKKS Pacific's products [5] - The Charming Bag Charms are designed as a viral trend, allowing kids to customize their looks by mixing and matching dolls and charms, making them portable and versatile [6] Company Background - JAKKS Pacific, Inc. is a leading designer, manufacturer, and marketer of toys and consumer products, headquartered in Santa Monica, California, with a focus on creating a positive impact on children's lives through its products and charitable efforts [10] - The Hershey Company is a major player in the snacks industry, generating over $11.2 billion in annual revenues from its extensive portfolio of brands, including Hershey's, Reese's, and Jolly Rancher [7]

Core Insights - Hershey's Kisses brand is participating as a Premier Sponsor in NBC's "Christmas in Rockefeller Center" for the first time, airing live on December 3, 2025 [1] - The event celebrates 35 years of the iconic 'Holiday Bells' commercial by creating an interactive experience for families [2] - An LED musical mat will be available at Rockefeller Center from December 4 to December 7, allowing visitors to play the 'Holiday Bells' melody [3] Company Overview - Hershey's Kisses is recognized as the No. 1 candy during the holiday season, and the partnership with NBC's holiday special aims to enhance brand visibility [4] - The 'Holiday Bells' commercial, created in 1989, is noted for its simplicity and has become a significant part of American holiday marketing history [5] - Hershey's Kisses is introducing new flavors for the holiday season, including Snickerdoodle Cookie Candy, alongside seasonal favorites like Candy Cane and Hot Cocoa [6] Event Details - The musical mat will debut during the tree lighting special on December 3 and will be accessible to the public at Rockefeller Plaza from December 4 to December 7 [7] - Hershey Company operates globally with over 20,000 employees and generates more than $11.2 billion in annual revenues from its diverse brand portfolio [8]