HSY

The Hershey Company manufactures, markets, and sells chocolate and confectionery products, snacks, and beverage enhancers primarily in North America and internationally. Headquartered in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the company operates through three reportable segments: North America Confectionery, North America Salty Snacks, and International. Its portfolio includes iconic brands such as Hershey's, Reese's, Kit Kat (U.S. license), Jolly Rancher, Ice Breakers, and Kisses in the confectionery category, alongside salty snack brands including SkinnyPop, Pirate's Booty, and Dot's Homestyle Pretzels. Hershey employs approximately 20,000 people worldwide and generates annual net sales exceeding $11 billion. The company holds the leading market position in the U.S. chocolate and confectionery industry with roughly 30% market share. Recent strategic initiatives include expanding its better-for-you snacking portfolio, investing in manufacturing capacity, and enhancing direct-to-consumer capabilities. Notable acquisitions include Amplify Snack Brands in 2017, which brought the SkinnyPop brand into its portfolio, and Dot's Homestyle Pretzels and Pretzels Inc. in 2021. The company operates multiple manufacturing facilities across North America and maintains a distinctive business model characterized by strong brand recognition, extensive retail distribution networks, and vertical integration in its supply chain. Hershey continues to invest in innovation and sustainability initiatives while maintaining its position as a dividend-paying company with over a century of operating history.