Tootsie Roll Industries, a household name in confections, traces its origins to Austrian immigrant Leo Hirschfield's creation of the iconic Tootsie Roll in New York City in 1896, named after his daughter. This penny candy quickly gained fame for its unique chewy texture and resistance to melting, a practical innovation for its time. Over a century, the company, now headquartered in Chicago and still family-run, has strategically expanded its sugary empire far beyond the original Tootsie Roll. Through significant acquisitions like Charms Co. in 1988, Andes Candies in 2000, and Concord Confections (maker of Dubble Bubble) in 2004, Tootsie Roll Industries has amassed a diverse portfolio including beloved brands such as Tootsie Pops, Junior Mints, DOTS, Charleston Chew, Sugar Daddy, Sugar Babies, and Cella's. This continuous growth, coupled with a commitment to quality and efficiency, has solidified Tootsie Roll Industries' position as a leading global candy manufacturer, distributing millions of pieces daily across North America and worldwide.
