Consumers around the world have long enjoyed Kinder Bueno’s wafer cookie covered in milk chocolate, and stuffed with a milky hazelnut filling. Though US shoppers could find them imported at certain retailers, the November launch will be the first time the candy bar officially hits the American market.
Ferrero also produces a white chocolate and miniature version.
“Ferrero’s founding and history are rooted in creating exceptional quality products that consumers love,” said Paul Chibe, president and CEO of Ferrero North America.
“The newest unveilings at Sweets and Snacks demonstrate Ferrero’s continued commitment to bringing excitement to our fans through innovation in the confectionery industry.”
The Italian company entered the US market in 1969 with Tic Tacs, and 50 years later will introduce a sugar-free version of the iconic mint that is 50% larger than the original. Available across the US in September 2019, Tic Tac X-Freeze mints feature ‘cooling crystals’ in two flavors, Strong Mint and Wintergreen, sold in packs of 30 pieces or 65.
According to Ferrero, Tic Tac is the best-selling breath mint in the US. The brand extended into gum in 2018, available in three flavors.
With its stateside headquarters located just outside New York City, Ferrero has since introduced Americans to its Rocher ‘pralines’ and, of course, Nutella – opening its first dedicated Nutella Café in Chicago in 2017 and a second last year in New York.
A box of chocolate
A ‘Golden Gallery’ box of assorted premium chocolates is also among the products Ferrero will showcase at the Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago, May 22-24. Consumers can opt for a 12-piece box of six varieties or a 24-piece box with eight different styles.
After a huge year for Kinder Joy in the US, Ferrero will unveil several seasonal and licensed eggs – notably with Frozen and Star Wars. Frozen 2 is slated to be released on November 22, and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker on December 20.
For the holidays, sixteen holiday-themed toys will be stowed in a ‘Holiday Shop’ four-pack and a ‘Santa’s Workshop’ six-pack. The latter will be accompanied by puzzles and games.
Another surprise-inside chocolate, Australia’s Yowie, also ties in puzzle pieces and games with its conservation-themed treats.
Next Easter, Ferrero will add eight egg-decorating designs with 16 seasonal toys, sold in packs that resemble miniature Easter baskets.
Market research firm IRI named Kinder Joy its number-one ‘pacesetter’ for 2018, as the brand surpassed $120m in sales in its first year in the US market.
Calling the recognition an honor, Noah Szporn, VP of marketing for Kinder North America, told Confectionerynews: “The recognition cements Ferrero as a leader in the industry and demonstrates our commitment to bringing excitement to U.S. consumers though innovation.”