Strengths:
Hershey Foods has grown from a one-product, one plant operation to a $4 billion company with many U.S. and international plants providing an array of quality chocolate and confectionery products and services.
Hershey entered 1996 as the largest candy maker in the United States with 30.7 percent market share.
Hershey is the largest pasta manufacturer in the United States with 28.4 percent market share.
Hershey Foods Corporation is committed to the values of its founder Milton S. Hershey—the highest standard of quality, honesty, fairness, integrity, and respect. The firm makes annual distribution of cash, products, and services to a variety of national and local charitable organizations. The corporation operates the Milton Hershey School for socially disadvantaged children and is the sole sponsor of the Hershey National Track and Field Youth Program. Hershey also makes contributions to the Children’s Miracle Network, a national program benefiting children’s hospitals across the United States.
Hershey’s main chocolate factory, for example, occupies more than 2 million square feet, is highly automated, and contains much heavy equipment, vats, and containers. It is the largest chocolate plant in the world.
Hershey is an exemplary organization in terms of business ethics and social responsibility; a significant part of Hershey Food’s profits go toward operating the Milton Hershey School for Orphaned Children.
Hershey is very cooperative with students and professors; Hershey has a toll-free number (1-800-468-1714) that students or professors can call to obtain additional information about the company.
Leadership position in the US confectionery market due to well known product brands, backed by ample advertising investments.
Broad product portfolio stabilizes the company’s earnings.
Focus on research and development (R&D), helps Hershey to gauge the emerging market for healthier snacks options.