The gummy bear brand HARIBO has completed construction of its 500,000-square-foot facility in Pleasant Prairies, Wisconsin, and is now open for production. This factory marks the brand’s first-ever North American manufacturing facility, according to the Food Engineering website.

HARIBO produces over 25 types of gummy treats in the U.S., and over 1,200 globally. The company was founded in Germany in 1920, and the famous Goldbears made their first appearance in 1922, then called the Dancing Bear, as noted on the HARIBO website.

The chewy candy company will release a limited-edition flavor for the summer: Wild Berry Goldbears.

"Haribo fans tell us they love our texture and flavor combinations, and Wild Berry Goldbears are a nod to that for a perfect summer treat," said Rick LaBerge, chief commercial officer, Haribo of America. "Haribo has been the world's No. 1 gummy brand for over a century because we stay true to our heritage while also driving to innovate, and that's all inspired by our consumers. Right now, as we're starting production in the United States, we're focused on classic Goldbears, and we're excited to produce more of our gummy varieties including innovative new treats like Wild Berry Goldbears in the future."

The U.S. opening of the HARIBO factory comes at a time when gummy and jelly brands are climbing in consumer interest. Citing a report for the year ending 2022, the category is up 13.7% with sales reaching $4.83 billion, according to Food & Beverage Insider. Brands, including Skittles, Starburst and Bazooka, who are wanting to stay up to date with the trends are starting to roll out gummy and other nonchocolate offerings.

Gummy snacks are versatile in texture and flavor, which is what gives the category space for innovation. “Texture and flavor go hand-in-hand in the confectionery space, you really can’t have one without the other,” said Greg Guidotti, chief marketing officer for Ferrara.

There is another factor in the surge of sales: supplements. The wellness movement has gotten ahold of gummies as a method for getting a dose of melatonin, CBD or general multivitamins. There are also many better-for-you options sprouting up with little-to-no sugar and no artificial colors from brands like Lily’s and Katjes.  

Check out more in-depth data about category management and more with the NACS State of the Industry Report® of 2022, now available for purchase.