Ring pop Bounces Back: new Pennsylvania Facility Aims for Sweet 2025 After Production Hiccup
A Sweet Comeback Story
Ring Pop enthusiasts, rejoice! After a temporary production shutdown that sent ripples of concern through the candy aisle, the iconic gemstone-shaped lollipop is back, bigger and better than ever. Ring Pop has inaugurated a sprawling new 120,000-square-foot manufacturing plant in Moosic, Pennsylvania, signaling a robust recovery and enterprising growth plans.
The new facility marks a notable upgrade. ItS nearly four times the size of the previous location. This expansion isn’t just about restoring production; it’s about supercharging it to meet the ever-increasing demand for this beloved treat. With retail sales projected to surpass $100 million in 2025, the candy brand is poised for what industry insiders call a “milestone year.”
From Scranton to Moosic: A Swift Relocation
The journey to this new facility wasn’t without its bumps. The closure of the Scranton, Pennsylvania, plant in August 2024—after a remarkable 47 years of operation—created uncertainty for over 100 employees. The shutdown raised concerns about potential disruptions during key candy-consuming events like Halloween,Thanksgiving,and christmas. Though, the parent company, Bazooka Brands, demonstrated remarkable agility.
Within months, a new location was secured, equipment was relocated, and operations were swiftly resumed. This rapid turnaround minimized disruption to the supply chain and reassured loyal consumers that their favorite candy gem wouldn’t disappear from store shelves.
“It would not have been surprising for it to take at least a year or more to get back up and running. But we have an incredible team, and I could not be prouder of how they responded.”
Tony Jacobs, CEO of Bazooka brands
Jacobs lauded the team’s efforts, emphasizing both the speed and efficiency of the relocation process.
“In a matter of weeks, they found a new location. In a matter of months, they moved our equipment. And in just six months, the facility, our equipment and our team were fully operational again.What an astonishing accomplishment.”
Tony Jacobs, CEO of Bazooka Brands
Investment and Expansion: A Sweet Future
The multi-million-dollar investment, backed by Apax partners LLP, underscores the commitment to Ring Pop’s future. this financial infusion not only allowed Bazooka Brands to retain its existing workforce but also to substantially ramp up production. The new facility boasts the capacity to churn out 1.5 million Ring Pops daily.
This expansion is particularly relevant in the context of the broader U.S. candy market. Americans consume an average of 22 pounds of candy per year, with Halloween being the peak season. Ring Pop’s increased production capacity ensures that it can meet this sustained demand and capitalize on seasonal spikes. This addresses concerns raised by consumers when the Scranton plant unexpectedly closed in August of 2024.
Looking ahead, here’s how the expansion could impact American consumers:
| Impact Area | Potential Outcome |
|---|---|
| Availability | Fewer stockouts, especially during peak seasons like Halloween and Valentine’s Day. |
| Innovation | Increased capacity could pave the way for new flavors, colors, and packaging options. |
| Price Stability | Increased supply can definitely help mitigate potential price increases due to supply chain disruptions. |
| Job Creation | The expanded facility is likely to create new jobs in the Moosic, Pennsylvania, area. |
jocelyn Stahl, chief of global operations at Bazooka Brands, sees the new facility as more than just a replacement:
“Rather than seeing this challenge as a setback, our team seized the opportunity to elevate operations and prepare for the brand’s exciting future. This isn’t just a replacement – it’s a major upgrade that will enable us to expand operations and drive Ring Pop to new heights.”
jocelyn Stahl, chief of global operations at Bazooka Brands
Beyond the candy: Economic Impact and Community Engagement
The opening of the new ring Pop facility has broader implications for the Moosic, Pennsylvania, community and the regional economy. The creation of jobs, both directly at the plant and indirectly through supporting industries, provides a welcome boost to the local economy. Moreover, the increased tax revenue generated by the facility can contribute to local infrastructure improvements and community programs.
Bazooka Brands could further enhance its community engagement by partnering with local schools and organizations to offer educational programs on manufacturing, supply chain management, and business operations. This would not only benefit the community but also enhance the company’s reputation as a responsible corporate citizen.
The Future of Ring Pop: Innovation and Sustainability
While the immediate focus is on meeting current demand, the expanded facility also opens doors for future innovation and sustainability initiatives. Bazooka brands could explore options for more lasting packaging materials, reducing its environmental footprint and appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.
Furthermore, the company could consider expanding its product line to include healthier options, such as sugar-free versions or fruit-based flavors, catering to the growing demand for healthier snack choices. These innovations, coupled with a commitment to sustainability, will ensure that Ring Pop remains a relevant and beloved candy brand for generations to come.
What are some of the key strategies that enabled such a rapid turnaround in opening the new Ring Pop facility?
ring Pop’s Sweet Comeback: An Interview with Marketing Director, Amelia Stone
An Exclusive Interview
Archyde News recently sat down with Amelia Stone, Marketing Director at bazooka Brands, to discuss the exciting relaunch of Ring pop and the opening of the new manufacturing facility in Moosic, Pennsylvania.
the Interview
Archyde News: Amelia, thank you for joining us today. The new Ring Pop facility is certainly generating a buzz. Can you tell us a bit about the journey from the Scranton plant closure to this new, expanded facility?
Amelia Stone: Absolutely! It was a challenging period, there’s no doubt whatsoever. When the Scranton plant closed in August of 2024, we knew we needed to act fast. Our team, thanks to the leadership of Tony Jacobs, mobilized quickly. The priority was ensuring continuous supply for our consumers, especially leading into crucial candy-consuming seasons.
Archyde News: The speed of the new facility’s opening is impressive. What were some of the key strategies that enabled such a rapid turnaround?
Amelia Stone: A few things came together. First, the unwavering dedication of our employees was crucial. Secondly, the support of our partners at Apax Partners LLP was instrumental. And, we adopted a very agile approach. Our focus was on swiftly relocating equipment and ensuring the workforce remained intact,all while planning for expanded future production capabilities.
archyde News: The new facility is significantly larger. What production increases are you anticipating, and how will they impact consumers?
Amelia Stone: The new facility has a capacity of 1.5 million Ring Pops daily! Consumers can expect fewer stockouts, especially during key times like Halloween and Valentine’s Day. But it’s not just about volume; it’s about innovation. We are eager to test new flavor profiles and launch more unique packaging options.
Archyde News: Beyond production,what other initiatives is Bazooka Brands focused on,notably concerning sustainability and community engagement?
Amelia Stone: Sustainability is increasingly vital. We’re exploring more eco-friendly packaging and examining ways to reduce our overall environmental footprint. Community involvement is also very critically important; we are exploring how we can partner with local schools and organizations to educate and improve our brand’s reputation.
Archyde News: Looking ahead to 2025, what are the primary goals for Ring Pop?
Amelia Stone: our primary goal is to get it to retailers. but, the new facility is about setting Ring Pop up for the long term. Our goal is a milestone year,as we have already projected this year. This includes further innovations, more streamlined production, and continued, strong community engagement.
Archyde News: That sounds very exciting. what’s your favorite Ring Pop flavor, and what new flavors might we see?
Amelia Stone: That’s tough! I adore the classic cherry. But, we’re always experimenting. While I can’t give specifics, let’s just say the flavor team is working on some exciting new options to ensure we continue to create the best candy jewels on the market.
Archyde News: Amelia,thank you for your time. It’s great to see Ring Pop thriving.
Amelia Stone: Thank you for having me!
