The Hershey Co. has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire organic snack brand LesserEvil, the Hershey, Pennsylvania-based company announced Thursday.
LesserEvil’s snack portfolio includes organic popcorn, Paleo Puffs, Space Balls, Power Curls and more. Its website highlights its products’ “simple ingredients, minimal processing and tasty flavors.”
“Investing in LesserEvil brings a multi-category, better-for-you snacks platform to extend our offerings into new categories and forms, reaching new consumers in more eating occasions,” said Michele Buck, The Hershey Co. president and CEO. “This high-growth brand not only complements our beloved confection and salty snack brands but also brings additional manufacturing capabilities and capacity to meet growing consumer and retailer needs.”
LesserEvil’s snacks will join Hershey’s snacking portfolio which includes confection brands like Hershey’s, Reese’s and Jolly Ranchers, and salty snack brands like SkinnyPop, Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels and Pirate’s Booty.
Danbury, Connecticut-based LesserEvil’s leadership team will continue with the company, Hershey said.
“LesserEvil has always been built on a foundation of clear purpose, constant innovation and a deep commitment to our people—fostering a vibrant culture rooted in mindfulness and better-for-you snacking using organic ingredients,” said Charles Coristine, LesserEvil CEO. “Joining a company that shares our passion for responsible business, giving to a cause greater than oneself and long-term vision makes this an incredible opportunity for our brand and our team. Hershey's century-long legacy of excellence creates not just strategic alignment but a true cultural home where we can continue to grow and make an impact.”
The transaction remains subject to regulatory approval with anticipated closing later in 2025, Hershey said. The companies did not disclose the transaction price, but the Wall Street Journal said the deal was valued at about $750 million, according to people familiar with the matter.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.