Original Gourmet Food Company, headquartered in Salem, New Hampshire, USA, is a prominent manufacturer and distributor in the confectionery and snack industry. Established with a mission to deliver indulgent and high-quality sweet treats, the company has gained a global reputation for its signature line of gourmet lollipops and diverse snacking products.
The company is best known for pioneering the category of "gourmet lollipops," combining eye-catching designs with rich flavors and premium quality. Over the years, Original Gourmet has expanded its offerings to include cookies, crackers, and assorted candies, targeting multiple market segments from retail and convenience stores to large-scale distributors.
Core Business and Product Portfolio
Original Gourmet Food Company specializes in sweet and savory packaged snacks, with their product lines distributed across North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. The company’s flagship products include:
- Gourmet Lollipops: Available in over 30 unique flavors, their 1.1 oz swirl lollipops are known for a long-lasting, smooth texture. These lollipops are a staple in grocery chains, convenience stores, and export markets.
- Cookies: Including gourmet shortbread and seasonal cookie collections.
- Crackers and Savory Snacks: Offered in various flavor profiles tailored for international markets.
- Seasonal Candy Programs: Custom-packaged items for holidays such as Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Halloween.
Specialization and Brand Identity
Original Gourmet’s most distinguished product is its award-winning Gourmet Lollipop, recognized for both its flavor innovation and visual appeal. The lollipops have been showcased in gift baskets, fundraising catalogs, and major retail displays worldwide. Their proprietary manufacturing process ensures consistency and quality in every piece.
The company’s brand, Original Gourmet™, is positioned as a premium yet affordable indulgence and is associated with quality, variety, and customer satisfaction.
Market Reach and Distribution
Original Gourmet exports to over 40 countries and maintains relationships with large retail chains, including Walmart, Dollar Tree, and 7-Eleven. Their products are commonly seen in duty-free outlets, amusement parks, and themed gift shops.
Financial Insights and Sales Performance
Although specific revenue figures are not publicly disclosed, industry sources and market activity indicate:
- Estimated annual revenue between $20M–$40M, with seasonal spikes driven by holiday programs
- Top-selling SKU: The 1.1 oz gourmet lollipop, sold in displays of up to 100-count jars and racks
- Private label production for major U.S. retailers and international partners
Export and Shipment Records
According to trade data platforms such as ImportYeti and Panjiva:
- More than 900 export shipments were recorded between 2020 and 2024
- Primary export destinations include Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and Mexico
- Regular exports through U.S. ports such as New York, Long Beach, and Houston
Capabilities and Manufacturing
Original Gourmet operates from a modern facility that supports high-volume manufacturing with automated production lines. Their capabilities include:
- In-house R&D for flavor and product development
- Flexible packaging solutions for international retail compliance
- Seasonal merchandising programs to support promotional sales
Certifications and Compliance
The company complies with leading industry safety and quality standards:
- FDA-registered manufacturing
- SQF Level 2 Certification (Safe Quality Food)
- Allergen and Gluten Label Transparency
- Products produced in peanut-free facilities to ensure wide market compatibility
Promotional Programs and Brochures
Original Gourmet offers extensive merchandising and promotional programs through downloadable brochures:
- 2025 International Everyday Program
- 2024 Valentine’s Program
- 2025 Easter/Spring Seasonal Program
These programs support distributors and retailers with point-of-sale materials, packaging customization, and promotional support.
Customer Perception and Recognition
Original Gourmet Lollipops have been repeatedly featured as top-selling novelty candy items in North America. Customer feedback praises the consistency in taste and value for money. The company’s colorful displays and packaging make it a favorite among retailers aiming for visual shelf appeal.
Major Achievements
- Over 1 billion lollipops sold globally since inception
- Exclusive product features in mass-market gift guides and retail showcases
- Recognized by multiple industry sources as an innovator in candy merchandising
Original Gourmet Food Company continues to lead in the novelty confectionery space, combining taste, design, and reliability to serve global markets with a distinctly American sweetness.