Sugarpova launches new gummy flavors at Sweets and Snacks Expo - watch

A long time candy lover with a surprising sweet tooth, tennis star Maria Sharapova was in Chicago for the announcement of a new line, as part of the brand’s interpretation of luxury classic candies.

In one of the highlights of this year’s Sweets and Snacks Expo in Chicago was the unveiling of four new, all-natural gummy flavors including Pink Grapefruit, Strawberry Cream, Sour Blue Raspberry and Sour Tart Cherry, by Sugarpova, the company founded by tennis icon Maria Sharapova.

Established seven years ago by the five-time grand slam singles champion, Sugarpova is a premium confection line ‘that celebrates hard work’.

Sharapova said the idea for her company was inspired by her childhood, when she would reward herself after a long day of practice with a sweet treat.

Currently off the tennis circuit because of an injury, Sharapova attended the Sweets and Snacks Expo on day one and talked to Confectionery News about how she continues to lead the company and has a hand in every decision, overseeing each element of the business from creative branding and packaging to product research and development.