Although Nestle’s Wonka brand (www.wonka.com) may not classify as gourmet, I couldn’t resist choosing the Wonka Exceptionals Scrumdiddlyumptious Chocolate Bar for my Editor’s Choice pick this week. Say what you will about big-brand chocolate, but this creamy candy bar is absolutely irresistible.
We received samples of an array of Wonka bars in the office last week, and I immediately tried the Scrumdiddlyumptious Chocolate Bar because, well, how could you not want to eat candy with a ridiculous name, especially one that was featured in one of the greatest films of all time? (Ok, maybe not the greatest film of all time, but certainly one of my childhood favorites. And I may or may not have the entire film memorized, including those catchy Oompa Loompa songs.)
The Scrumdiddlyumptious bar comes in a shiny, metallic purple wrapper that is as eye-catching and imaginative as the scenes from “Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory” film. The bar itself combines all my favorite candy elements: milk chocolate, toffee bits, crispy cookie pieces and crunchy peanuts. The chocolate is surprisingly rich and smooth, and the toffee bits add a caramel undertone that creates depth.
The arrival of these bars got me thinking about in-store merchandising. Have you ever considered creating a display of candy and foods inspired by films and books? Or merchandising classic candies alongside books such as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl? The artwork in children’s picture books is so colorful and could be used as inspiration for displays. What’s more, it gives you the opportunity to tap into peoples’ childhood memories and love for nostalgic treats.
-Ashley
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