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The Hershey Company has announced a definitive agreement to acquire organic snacks producer LesserEvil.
LesserEvil will join Hershey’s expanding portfolio of snack brands, which includes SkinnyPop, Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels and Pirate’s Booty, alongside its core confectionery labels like Hershey’s, Reese’s and Jolly Rancher.
The brand will continue to operate under its existing leadership, maintaining its product development, manufacturing and distribution strategies. LesserEvil focuses on organic snacks with bold flavors and aims to support growth within Hershey’s broader snacking portfolio.
Michele Buck, The Hershey Company's president and CEO, said: "Investing in LesserEvil brings a multi-category, better-for-you snacks platform to extend our offerings into new categories and forms, reaching new consumers in more eating occasions".
"This high-growth brand not only complements our beloved confection and salty snack brands but also brings additional manufacturing capabilities and capacity to meet growing consumer and retailer needs."
Charles Coristine, CEO of LesserEvil, added: "LesserEvil has always been built on a foundation of clear purpose, constant innovation and a deep commitment to our people – fostering a vibrant culture rooted in mindfulness and better-for-you snacking using organic ingredients".
"Joining a company that shares our passion for responsible business, giving to a cause greater than oneself, and long-term vision makes this an incredible opportunity for our brand and our team. Hershey's century-long legacy of excellence creates not just strategic alignment but a true cultural home where we can continue to grow and make an impact."
The deal is pending regulatory approval and is expected to close later this year. Financial terms were not disclosed.