Top 10 Best Selling Candies from the 1950s

Stock up on retro candy 

Let's take a sweet trip back in time.

The 1950s was a golden era for candy.

This decade saw the rise of iconic candies that are still loved today. From Atomic Fireballs to Peeps Candy, these treats ignited our taste buds and captured our hearts.

But why were the 1950s such a booming time for candy?

The post-war era brought prosperity and innovation, allowing for more extravagant and fun candy creations.

Stepping into a candy shop in the 1950s was like entering a world of sweet wonders. Candy bars cost just 5 to 10 cents, making them an affordable treat for everyone.

Shelves were stocked with colourful wrappers and enticing displays. The air was filled with the scent of sugar and chocolate.

Join us as we unwrap the top 10 best selling candies of the 1950s, and relive those sweet memories.

1. Atomic Fireball - The Spicy Sensation

The Atomic Fireball was a game-changer in the candy world. Introduced in 1954, this spicy cinnamon hard candy was a hit. It ignited a trend for spicy candies that continues to this day.

The Atomic Fireball was a symbol of the atomic age. Its fiery flavour and atomic-themed name captured the spirit of the times.

2. Chupa Chups - A Whimsical Treat

The iconic Chupa Chups lollipop was a hit in Spain when it was first released in the 1950s. It quickly caught wind by consumers and became a staple in the confectionary and pop culture world with surrealist artist Salvador Dali designing the logo.

These sweet suckers would make a fantastic display at your cash registers for those sweet toothed customers! If you’re looking for more Chupa Chups options, explore the different drink and candy options for well rounded selections for your store!

3. PEZ - More Than Just a Candy

PEZ was more than just a candy in the 1950s. It was a cultural phenomenon. The candy itself was a simple, flavoured tablet, but the PEZ dispensers were the real attraction.

Introduced in the 1950s, the iconic PEZ dispensers with character heads were a hit. Kids loved collecting them and trading with friends. Make sure your store is stocked up on PEZ candy to entice your customers with fun characters and figurines! 

4. Gold Mine Gum - A Golden Bite

The Gold Mine Gum is a pack of delicious bubble gum that made the rounds since the 1950s. These are one of the best selling candies you can have on your shelves.

With its fun packaging, and irresistible sweet chewing gum flavour, your customers will feel like they struck gold after their first bite!

5. Hot Tamales - A Fiery Favourite

Hot Tamales were introduced in 1950. These chewy, cinnamon-flavoured candies were a fiery favourite. The spicy flavour was a hit with those who liked a bit of heat in their sweets.

Hot Tamales were a testament to the innovative flavours of the 1950s. They remain a popular choice for those who enjoy a spicy kick and makes the perfect addition to your store.

6. Popeye Candy Sticks - Simply Classic

Let’s take it back to a time where things were far simpler, including the candy selections! Popeye Candy Sticks are a nostalgic candy for anyone that would go trick or treating, or loved swapping treats on the schoolyard.

Let your customers experience a wave of nostalgia with Popeye sticks – they’re sure to adore every taste!

7. Candy Necklaces - Edible Fashion

Candy Necklaces were both a fashion statement and a sweet treat. These edible accessories were a hit with kids. They were a fun and tasty way to show off your sweet tooth.

Candy Necklaces were a symbol of the playful and creative spirit of the 1950s. They added a touch of sweetness to any outfit, so make sure you have plenty to satisfy your customers.

8. Peeps Marshmallow - Fluffy Sweetness

Peeps Marshmallows are a fan favourite for sweet toothed customers all over! Released in the 50s, we can’t help but gush about how delicious these marshmallow treats are!

Let your customers enjoy the vast selection of seasonal shapes and flavours all year long! From Easter to Halloween, Peeps are sure to put a sweet smile on your customers. Add a dash of decorative flare to your storefront with Peeps candy!

9. M&M's - The Chocolate That Doesn't Melt in Your Hand

M&M's gained popularity in the 1950s. These chocolate candies with a hard candy shell were a favourite. The slogan "melts in your mouth, not in your hand" was a promise of a mess-free treat.

M&M's were a testament to the innovative candy creations of the 1950s. They remain a beloved candy favourite to this day. This candy staple is a must-have in your stores, so grab a pack and watch the M&M lovers pour in!

10. Bazooka Bubble Gum - The Comic Strip Gum

Bazooka Bubble Gum was more than just a gum. Each piece came with a small comic strip, making it a cultural phenomenon. The sweet flavour and fun comics made it a hit.

Bazooka Bubble Gum was a symbol of the fun and playful spirit of the 1950s. It’s a sweet treat that still brings joy and laughter to customers all over. Make sure load up your shelved with this delicious bubble gum!

The Legacy of 1950s Candy

The 1950s was a golden era for candy, introducing many iconic sweets that are still loved today. These candies not only satisfied sweet tooths but also became a part of the cultural fabric, shaping sweet traditions and memories.

From Atomic Fireballs to Bazooka Bubble Gum, these candies have left a lasting legacy, making them a great addition to your candy store! They remind us of a time of innovation and optimism, a time when a trip to the candy shop was a special treat.

Share Your Sweet Memories

Do you have a favourite candy from the 1950s? Share your stories in the comments below and let's reminisce together.

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