It's next to impossible for me to wait in line at the supermarket and not pick up a pack of gum in some limited-edition novelty flavor. That's why I was beside myself when I received a shipment of what might have been a lifetime supply of Wrigley chewing gum in a slew of new flavors. A sore jaw and many packs later, I've discovered a new favorite flavor. Scope out the highlights — and learn whether they're worth buying now.
A little while ago, I mentioned that Orbit gum would be adding new flavors. Well, they've finally hit the market. Have you seen Orbit Sangria Fresca in your neighborhood? — Sugar Savvy
This morning Mars Inc — makers of M&Ms, Snickers, Skittles, and more — announced that it would buy gum manufacturer Wrigley for $23 billion. If you recall, the Wrigley company recently announced new packaging and flavors, in order to help sluggish gum sales.
The deal will create the world's largest confectionary company, and could possibly force Hershey's and Cadbury to join forces — there's been previous rumors of these two combining in the past.
The Wrigley portion of the company will continue to run as an independent unit, and it will be helmed by current Chairman Bill Wrigley. The deal is seen as a win-win on both parts, as Wrigley will now have a bigger infrastructure to help them with marketing and distribution. The interesting foodie tidbit is that current nonchocolate Mars brands — Starburst, Skittles, etc. — will now become part of the Wrigley portfolio.
So tell me, what do you think of these two powerhouses joining forces? Do you care if it is one giant company? Do you think it will affect the way the candy tastes?
Call me old-fashioned, but I enjoy the little five-stick packs of gum. They're small and easy to carry, and apparently, on their way out. Yep, they're going the way of the dinosaur thanks to a new move by the Wrigley company. Instead of the simple five-stick rectangular packs, consumers will now be able to purchase sleek and slim envelopes of gum. The slimmer design is part of an effort to revive poor US sales. The packaging has been designed to attract teens and young adults — the folks who chew the most gum.
In addition to new packaging, they're also enhancing the flavors of their gum. The Doublemint, Juicy Fruit, Big Red, and Extra lines are all going to be reformulated to include "significant flavor improvements." They also plan on releasing a new line of gum called Fruit Sensations. The flavors will include Strawberry Banana, Berry Pearadise, Island Cooler, and Sweet Watermelon.
Meanwhile, their Orbit line — which is already slim packed and a hit with consumers — will also get a few new flavors including Sangria Fresca, Fabulous Fruitini, and Fruit Sorbet.
So tell me, do the new flavors interest you? How about the new packaging? Will it sway your gum-buying habits?
