Sarris Candies
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Confectionery |
| Founded | 1960 |
| Founder | Frank Sarris |
| Headquarters | Canonsburg , United States |
Area served | United States |
| Products | Specialty chocolate, confectionery, ice cream |
Number of employees | 350+ |
Sarris Candies, Inc. is a distinguished producer of specialty chocolate and confectionery located in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, approximately 18 miles to the southwest of Pittsburgh. The company was established in 1960 by Frank Sarris, who initially crafted chocolates in the basement of his residence.
History
Frank Sarris (September 22, 1931 – March 1, 2010), a first-generation Greek-American, founded the enterprise in 1960. He acquired his chocolate-making expertise from John Macris, the founder of Philadelphia Candies. By 1963, increasing demand prompted him to open a small candy store adjacent to his home, which was replaced with a larger operation five years later.
The business grew to employ more than 350 individuals and achieved annual revenues of $16 million. In 1982, with assistance from his son, Sarris introduced a vintage-style ice cream parlor featuring period-appropriate booths and chandeliers. Presently, the Sarris Chocolate Factory and Ice Cream Parlour span an area comparable to a football field and showcase extensive chocolate selections, penny candies, ice cream offerings, and stuffed toys.
Distribution of Sarris products extends nationwide through fundraising campaigns and availability in over 500 Hallmark retail locations.
On February 3, 2012, a fire caused damage to the factory’s inventory of approximately 20,000 pounds of chocolate; however, the facility has since been fully restored.