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Chocolate is one of those indulgences that everyone looks forward to. Regardless of your gender or age, you probably enjoy a sweet treat from time to time. In this guide, we'll reveal some of the top chocolate brands. 

Whether you're a confectioner or love stocking up on wholesale chocolate, these are the brands you need to know about. 

Toblerone 

A heavy hitter in the Swiss chocolate category, Toblerone became a household name when the company introduced its unique chocolate bar. The packaging and shape of the chocolate is based on the infamous Matterhorn mountain - which is Switzerland's most popular. 

Made with a combination of honey, nougat, almond and cocoa, Toblerone provides a decadent treat for people worldwide. Its silky smooth texture embodies everything you'd imagine a bar of Swiss chocolate to be. 

Cadbury

No chocolate list would be complete without Cadbury. It's the UK's most famous brand and for a good reason! With its exciting history and popularity, Cadbury has a place in everyone's heart. 

In 1824, a quaker named John Cadbury established his brand and began to sell hot chocolate. As time went on, he unleashed his creativity, and that small business would become a household name. 

Cadbury's now is different from the company back then, but one of the things that make the confectioner so popular is the fearless way they approach creating chocolate. 

Dairy Milk was Cadbury's first success, and popular treats such as Cream Egg, Flake and the white chocolate collection keep people coming back. 

Hershey's

If Cadbury's is the UK's go-to chocolate bar, then Hershey's is its USA counterpart. The brand was born in 1894 and grew from a small Philadelphia confectioner to a global brand. While many people regard the traditional Hershey's bar of chocolate as average, it's their unique products that make the company famous. 

Some of the most popular include Hershey's Kisses and Reese's collection. Both peanut butter cups and Reese's Pieces elevate the brand to global popularity, and supermarkets across the UK stock a range of confectionery from the USA. 

Guylain

Guylain is probably the best example of Belgian chocolate in the UK - but it's also popular in other countries. It's estimated that 100 countries are stocking the chocolate, which shows how many people appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into every box. 

Compared to other brands such as Cadbury's and Hershey's, Guylain is relatively young. Founded in the 1960s by Guy Foubert, people immediately loved the silky chocolate with a rich praline filling. 

Since then, the company has expanded and includes other products in its line. But the shell themed pralines will always be the most popular. 

Milka

Milka is also a Swiss chocolate brand, and in recent years it's risen in popularity. Available in the UK, you'll recognise the distinct purple packaging with a cow on the front. There are so many products to choose from, including milk and white chocolate. 

Other fan favourites include creamy Milka chocolate with a range of fillings: 

• Hazelnut 
• Coconut 
• Strawberry Yogurt 
• Oreo 

While Milka hasn't reached the heights of competitors such as Cadbury and Toblerone, it has a loyal group of fans that keep the brand alive. 

Galaxy 

Galaxy is one of those chocolate brands that people love, but it's not quite reached the heights of Cadbury. Galaxy was founded in 1986 and is owned by the Mars company. It's undoubtedly one of the most popular confectionery products around, and many prefer it to Cadbury. 

Galaxy is sold under the name of Dove in the USA, and it was created in America. The silky smooth chocolate is a delight to taste, and the Ripple and Minstrels continue to sell. But while the brand failed to gain traction in the USA, Galaxy is famous in the UK, India and Middle Eastern countries. 

Ferrero Rocher

It might surprise you to learn that Ferrero Rocher is one of the world's biggest-selling chocolate brands. It's known as a decadent treat, and while the chocolates aren't your everyday kind of snack, they're perfect for a special occasion. 

A crispy outer shell holds a creamy hazelnut filling, with milk chocolate covering the outside. Chopped hazelnuts offer the finishing touches, and each chocolate is wrapped in gold foil. As luxury chocolate at a reasonable price, it's easy to see why so many people love Ferrero Rocher. 

Mars 

Another heavyweight in the confectionery world, Mars is known for its vast selection of products (including Galaxy). The brand's flagship Mars Bar packs a real punch when it comes to energy, and it's become a favourite for people that want a sugar boost. 

There are many other products in the Mars lineup, including:

• Twix 
• Snickers 
• M&M's 
• Maltesers 
• Milky Way 

Mars might not be as high-end as the chocolate brands on this list, but the sheer selection the company offers is what makes it so popular. 

Green & Black's

Known as one of the primary fair trade brands, Green & Black's have built a loyal customer base. Their organic chocolate is on the higher end of the pricing scale, but each bar is of the highest quality. 

What makes the brand so popular is its unique ability to combine flavours. Popular options include ginger and dark chocolate, sweet and sour chocolate with sea salt and white chocolate with vanilla. 

If you're looking for an indulgent treat, then Green & Black undoubtedly delivers. 

Nestle

Well, we couldn't leave out Nestle! Founded in Switzerland, the brand has seen significant growth in the UK, and its most popular chocolate bars include Milky Bar, KitKat and Yorkie. It's another regular feature in a Christmas selection box, and the brand has an impressive range of products. 

The Wrap Up

With so many delicious wholesale chocolate brands available, it isn't easy to know where to start if you're stocking your candy store. Ideally, you should think of your customer base and find a solution that suits your needs. 

Ah, chocolate. It's sweet, creamy, delicious and the perfect way to unwind after a long day. Whether it's with coffee, wine, milk or even water, the majority of people in the UK enjoy treating themselves to their favourite bar. 

From long-time favourites such as Cadbury's Dairy Milk to the Snickers and Hershey's brands, so many chocolate bars have stood the test of time and are still as popular today. But unfortunately, many others failed to make the long-term impression they needed to survive. 

Let's take a look at the chocolate bars we'd love to make a comeback. 

Cadbury's Snowflake 

Why, oh why did Cadbury's give us something so wonderful then rip it out of our hands?! The Snowflake was a traditional Cadbury's flake, but it was made of white chocolate instead. The white flake was then coated in milk chocolate, and it was delicious. 

Nobody knows why the Snowflake didn't go all the way and make it onto the Cadbury's A-Team of sweets, but we do know that it's greatly missed. They could bring it back for one month a year, and we'd be happy, but it's not looking good. We'll just have to enjoy the memory of buying one of these beauties from the school vending machines. 

Cadbury's Dream 

Continuing the theme of remembering the times Cadbury's gave us something so unique, then ripped it away, is the brief love affair we had with their Dream bar. White chocolate was the theme, and much like their milk and dark chocolate offerings - Cadbury's did it so well. 

While the Dream is no longer around in the UK, you can sometimes find it on websites such as Amazon. Cadbury's did, however, release a white chocolate bar recently, and while it's not called the Dream, people do say it tastes similar - so here's hoping! 

Mars Delight

Mars Delight was fluffier and creamier than the traditional Mars Bar, so it came as a shock when the company decided to discontinue it. Perhaps it didn't have the dense flavours Mars is known for, but it was the perfect treat for many people. 

Although discontinued in 2008, the legacy of Mars Delight lives on. Someone even bought a bar 11 years past its use-by date for £50 on eBay. 

McVities Penguin Flipper Dippers 

Do you remember Flipper Dippers? Let us remind you. McVities are known for their chocolate biscuits, but they went one further with Flipper Dippers. Penguin shaped biscuits languished in one compartment, and you could choose between milk and white chocolate dipping sections. 

You probably had these in your lunchbox at some point, and in their prime, they were extremely popular. Now, the dippers no longer exist, and while people often forget about them, hopefully, this post helps you remember dipping those flippers. 

Terry's Pyramint

You won't be alone if you don't remember Terry's Pyramint because the chocolate orange usually takes precedence over every other chocolate bar the company has ever created. BUT, there was such a thing as a mint chocolate flavoured pyramid - once upon a time. 

Despite having a great concept, the Pyramint failed to capture the hearts of consumers, and it was discontinued in the early 1990s. Perhaps Toblerone and After Eights were just too popular for Terry's to compete, but their Chocolate Orange is just as popular. 

Cadbury Snaps 

Why did Cadbury discontinue their Snaps? They were like Pringles in chocolate form, which made them incredibly moreish and impossible to say no to. With popular flavours including mint, hazelnut and orange, they were a favourite among people of all ages. 

It's unknown why they no longer exist, but we genuinely hope that one day we see Snaps make a return to the supermarket shelves. 

In the meantime, you can satisfy your cravings with a selection of wholesale chocolate bars, including Galaxy, Maltesers, Twix White Bar and Nestle Caramac. 

Cadbury Astros

An authentic 1990s classic, Astros were tiny little biscuit balls covered in milk chocolate and a favourite among younger people. The company introduced Astros to compete with Smarties, but they never really gained the same fan base as other Cadbury's favourites. 

Although Astro's are no longer available in the UK, they impacted South Africa, and you can buy them over there. 

Mars Planets 

Another popular choice in its day, Mars Planets, were tiny little balls filled with a surprise treat reminiscent of the classic Mars bar. You could get a nougat centre, caramel centre or a crispy centre. Ultimately, they were a direct competitor of Revels, and for some reason, Mars Planets just didn't make the impact the manufacturers expected. 

By 2007, the sweets were falling out of popularity, and they practically just faded away. Perhaps it was because Revels had more flavours to experience, or maybe other chocolate offerings of the time overshadowed Planets. We'd love them to make a comeback, though. 

Cadbury's Marble 

Last but not least is Cadbury's Marble. The silky smooth chocolate bar was a mixture of milk chocolate, white chocolate with a hazelnut praline centre. To put it simply, the Marble was delicious. 

It began to disappear from the shelves for some unknown reason but maintained its popularity in other countries. Today, you can find Marble's in B&M shops - if you're lucky. They do exist but usually fly off the shelves, so it's unlikely you'll manage to get your hands on one. 

The Wrap Up 

We miss each chocolate bar on our list, but many other long-time favourites have stood the test of time. Why? Because people continue to buy them. On Appleton's website, you'll find a range of delicious wholesale chocolate bars and sweets for sale that guarantee your shop will be successful. 

We also have some unique offerings such as white chocolate Twix bars and Ceramics. Retro chocolates include white mice and Fry's chocolate creams - which are still incredibly popular today. 

Shopping with Appleton's means you get access to all the latest sweets, including limited edition chocolates, so don't delay in stocking your shop.

We live in a world that prides itself on diversity, and each country has people of all cultures, religions, and backgrounds that make it unique. But, each of us has one thing in common; we love a sweet treat. 

It might surprise you to learn that candy has been around longer than most of us, our grandparents, their grandparents - you get the picture. 

We can trace candies' roots back to the ancient worlds of Egypt and China. So, in this post, let's take a look at the complete history of candy. 

The Beginnings 

From the ancient Egyptians and Greeks to the Roman Empire, people have enjoyed sweet treats for thousands of years, but they didn't call it candy. Honey was a sought after food, and many people would take honey straight from the beehive. 

We're not sure if the first candy treats were invented to eat it or to preserve flowers, fruits and nuts, but either way, people soon found out that the combination was delicious. 

People would soon learn how to manufacture sugar, and while many civilisations would enjoy the benefits of sugar, The Tudors were notorious for many things. Henry VIII left a legacy of death, destruction and division in the country. 

But with all the beheadings and religious issues, people often forget about the Tudors love of sugar. So, let's take a look at how they used sugar. 

The Tudors & Their Love of Sugar 

By the middle ages, people had worked out how to make sugar, which became a staple for the rich. Poor people couldn't afford sugar, but the most powerful in the country would indulge in the sweet stuff regularly. 

The early Tudors didn't have the luxury of vast amounts of sugar imported from other lands, but by the time Queen Elizabeth I took the throne, it was beginning to gain traction. Elizabeth herself loved sugar, and it was in wine, food dishes and pretty much everything else. 

Funnily enough, the rich also used sugar as toothpaste, so as you can imagine - there were lots of people walking around with black teeth. 

While we now know that too much sugar can cause health issues, it's important to remember that our love affair with the sweet stuff originated hundreds of years ago. 

The Industrial Revolution

For many years, candy was used as a mixture of sugar, fruits and spices, and people thought it held medicinal purposes. But later years saw a distinct shift in how people viewed candy. 

The industrial revolution is one of the most critical periods in history because it defined how we live today. Many manufacturing processes were developed between the late 1700s and early 1900s, including factory machinery. 

If we hadn't had an industrial revolution, then things today might look very different. But the revolution paved the way for business, consumerism and gave people lasting careers that meant they could feed their families. 

Candy Press Invention

In 1847, the first candy press was invented in response to the increasing availability of candy. While it was previously something only the rich could enjoy, the expanding market meant that sugar was now more accessible to people from all backgrounds. 

There was also a distinct shift in how children were treated, with many manufacturers realising that young people were one of the most promising consumer markets around. 

Candy presses make it possible for manufacturers to create numerous sizes and shapes of candy at once and then sell it for a profit. Many consumers (especially children) would buy penny candy during this era, as it was cheap but still provided the sugar boost they craved. 

The Timeline 

The candy timeline shows us some important inventions and occurrences that lead to the candy we know and love today. Let's take a look at some vital moments that defined where we are today. 

1847: Joseph Fry makes history by creating the world's first chocolate bar by mixing cacao, sugar and cocoa, then letting it set in a mould. Fry's is still around today, and they're still creating the same delicious chocolate creams! 

1848: John Curtis creates the first chewing gum and calls it The State of Maine Spruce Gum. 

1854: Whitman's chocolate began to manufacture and sell their first boxes of chocolates. This small step led to the Cadbury company creating a Valentine's Day box of chocolates. The tradition of showing people you care with chocolate gift boxes is still prevalent today. 

1881: Reed's Candy Company creates a butterscotch sweet just one year after the ever-popular candy corn first hit the shelves. 

1893: The Wrigley's Company introduces its Juicy Fruit and Spearmint Chewing Gum - both of which are still top-sellers today! 

1900: A big year for the USA, because The Hershey Company created its first chocolate bar. 

1921: Chuckle's brought their jelly style fruit sweets to the scene, which were a huge success. 

1923: Not one to be left behind, the Mars company invented the Milky Way bar, which was the first malted chocolate bar with a nougat centre. They then followed it up in 1930 with the Snickers bar (which was named after the family horse). 

1958: Something we all remember from our childhoods - candy necklaces steal the limelight for the year 1958, and kids everywhere still wear (and eat) them today. 

1963: A year we should all look back upon with love because this was the year Cadbury's created the Cream Egg. 

1992: The Mars company introduced the Dove/Galaxy chocolate bar to compete with Cadbury's Dairy Milk. If you're in the UK, then you'll know Dove as Galaxy, where it continues to retain its popularity with Minstrels, Ripple and Galaxy Caramel becoming very popular. 

The Wrap Up 

So, now you know more about the history of candy, it's clear to see that there's a story with every sweet or bar of chocolate you enjoy. With such a rich history and some candy offerings that have lasted for decades, we look forward to seeing what the future brings chocolate and sweet lovers everywhere.

Of all the decades, the 1980s were probably the most eclectic. Big hair, incredible movies and fantastic music are just some things that make the 80s stand out. But let’s not forget that the decade was huge for food too. 

In this post, we’ll look at sweets that defined the 1980s and see how many are still around today. 

Opal Fruits 

For those born before 1998, Opal Fruits were a favourite sweet choice at the local shop. The chewy sweets each had a distinct fruity flavour, and they were great for sharing with friends - if you could bring yourself to. 

Then, in 1998 for some unknown reason, the company announced that Opal Fruits would become Starburst. The manufacturers wanted to match the UK name with the USA, and while Starburst is still popular, we miss the retro appeal of Opal Fruits. 

Chewits 

Often thought of as Opal Fruits/Starburst competitors, Chewits have stood the test of time and are just as popular today as they were in the 80s. With more unique flavours than Starburst, it’s hard to forget them - especially the adverts with the Godzilla style monster! 

5,4,3,2,1 

You might remember this chocolate bar, although it was discontinued in 1989. The chocolate bar had a lot going on with five distinct flavours, including milk chocolate, caramel, crispies, wafer and fondant. 

Surprisingly, it didn’t last past the 80s, but the unique flavour and catchy advert mean we can’t leave it off this list. 

Toffo 

Only the strong could manage to enjoy Toffo sweets because most of us had a fear that they’d pull our teeth out. There were so many flavours to choose from, including traditional toffee, mint toffee and even a selection of fruit chews. 

While you can still find Toffo sweets in some places, they’re no longer on the shelves of your local shop or supermarket. 

Fizz Wiz 

Fizz Wiz is one of those brands that you either know and love, or you’ve never heard of it. Surprisingly, the popping candy treat is still available now and comes in a range of flavours. 

The most popular is the strawberry, but there are plenty to choose from. Traditional Fizz Wiz sweets inspired many other brands to make their popping candy, so it seems their endless appeal will continue for years to come. 

Fruit Salad 

Fruit Salad sweets were so good, and they still are! One of the few sweets that everyone will remember, you’d usually combine fruit salads with drumsticks and blackjacks for a sleepover with your favourite friends. 

It’s impressive that Fruit Salad sweets are still so popular today, but they stand the test of time as one of the most delicious examples of confectionery we’ve had the pleasure of tasting. It’s easy to see why so many people still buy fruit salad sweets. 

Cadbury’s Taz 

Every kid born in the 1980s will remember the joys of choosing between a 10p Freddo or Taz bar after school. 

The caramel filled treats were a firm favourite, but then Cadbury decided to replace Taz with Freddo. 

The caramel Freddo bar tastes the same, but we still miss Taz! 

Jelly Tots

Who doesn’t remember the fruity flavour of Jelly Tots? The sweets have been around for years, and it’s no wonder why they’re still a favourite. Since the 1980s, there have been some distinct changes to Jelly Tots, including new packaging and larger size, but they’ve still retained their famous flavour. 

Whether you’re a child or an adult, nobody can deny that Jelly Tots are hard to resist. We think (and hope) they’ll be around for years to come. 

Refreshers 

Refreshers are similar to Love Hearts, but they have a tangier flavour and no sentimental message, making them more popular. The fizzy, fruity sweets are a fan favourite, and while the packaging is different today, the flavour is still the same. 

Parma Violets 

Parma Violets are like the Marmite of the sweets world. You either love their flavour, or you hate it. They’re still popular today, partly due to the unique violet infused taste and also because of the low price. 

Candy Necklaces 

The elasticated string and the delicious sweets made these necklaces a favourite for girls. They were regularly seen in your local sweet shop, and a party bag wasn’t a party bag unless you had a candy necklace. 

Candy Necklaces are still around - but they don’t have the appeal they once did, perhaps because it was more straightforward in the 80s and 90s when they were most popular. 

Wham Bars 

Wham Bars were chewy bars with a sour filling that would often cause you to screw your face up. Most people snuck them into their school bags or made sure they had enough lunch money left over to buy a bar from their local shop, so, surprisingly, Wham Bars are no longer around. 

As Drumsticks, Fruit Salad, Refreshers and Black Jacks began to expand their range, people forgot about Wham Bars, but we have fond memories of them. 

Dib Dabs 

Another retro classic, Dib Dabs, combine a hard candy lolly with tangy sherbert for the ultimate treat. You might remember the old fashioned rectangular lolly, which is now a circle but Dib Dabs are still around. 

Sherbet Fountain 

It’s fantastic that Sherbet Fountains are still around -especially since they’re older than your grandparents! Yes, these delicious treats from Barratt made their way onto the shelves in 1925 - before the Second World War.

The tasty liquorice stick and tangy powder make Sherbet Fountains a favourite for children, and their low price only adds to the appeal. 

Candy Whistles 

We can’t forget candy whistles. Not only did they provide us with a tasty treat, but they were also fun to play with too. While candy whistles aren’t as popular as they once were, they’re still around. 

There could be worse things than working in a chocolate factory. We all love the delicious treat, and it's responsible for bringing people joy, warm feelings and expanding waistlines (when consumed in excess).

In this post, we're going to remove the mystery of life on the front lines of a chocolate factory by looking at what it's really like. From the sweet stuff to bitter moments, let's dive in so you can see if your dream job lives up to its expectations. 

The Job Description 

To get a good idea of what it's like to work in a chocolate factory, it's important to see the job description. Unfortunately, while the common conception is that the factory is as fun as Willy Wonka's exciting workplace, the movie doesn't paint a realistic image of the average chocolate factory. 

A chocolate factory is similar to other manufacturing workplaces with one significant difference; you make chocolate treats for people. As a result, there are many responsibilities, depending on the job role, so let's look at them. 

Working with machinery

Machinery is vital for factories to thrive because it simplifies the manufacturing process. Without machines, people would have to do the work by hand, which would take a lot longer to complete. 

While machines do the heavy lifting, people need to operate them, so any job in a chocolate factory requires that you understand how to use machines safely and get the best results by adopting vital health and safety practices. 

Cleaning work areas 

In many chocolate factories, people are responsible for their work area. Cleanliness is essential when working with food products, so a lot of the job revolves around wiping down machines and ensuring the site is free of germs. 

Food preparation environments also have strict rules regarding personal hygiene, such as regular hand washing and wearing hairnets. 

Packing products 

Once the manufacturing process is complete, employees will have to pack the chocolate for shipping. This is a relatively simple job, but it can begin to feel a bit monotonous when you have to do it every day.

Quality Control

One of the most important aspects of working in a chocolate factory is ensuring everything you produce can pass quality control regulations. Most of the time, manufacturers have strict rules about what they can sell, so even something as small as the shape of your chocolate can mean it's unsuitable for retailers. 

If any products are unsuitable for selling, the factory will have to record the fault and ensure it doesn't happen again. 

Health & Safety 

Working in a factory environment can be dangerous, especially with all of the machinery. Accidents can happen, but health and safety procedures are in place to minimise the risk of work-based incidents occurring. 

For example, knowing how to operate machinery will protect people from potential accidents, and training is an essential part of factory work. 

Once people receive the proper training, it's their job to ensure they meet all health and safety regulations. 

What Skills Do You Need?

There are many skills you need to be a chocolate factory employee, and it's not an ideal job for everyone. So let's take a look at the personality traits and skills successful factory workers have. 

Drive 

Most people know that factory work isn't mentally stimulating. It often involves following a set of processes and working with the same machines every day. As a result, factory workers can get incredibly bored, and they lose focus on what they're doing. 

Drive is essential because you have to get up every day and do the same thing. But, while some people enjoy routine and would rather know exactly what they'll be doing, others often find that the nature of factory work leaves them disappointed. 

Restraint 

Yep, we can't rule out restraint. It is a chocolate factory, after all! While it would be nice to think that a perk of this job involves eating all the chocolate you can get your hands on, it's not true. 

The fact is, your job is to make sure chocolates are produced, packaged and shipped to retailers - not to indulge in as much of the sweet stuff as possible. If you're a chocoholic, then factory work might not be ideal for you, and you should look into becoming a chocolate taster (yes, some people get paid to eat chocolate every day). 

However, if you're confident that you can resist rows upon rows of chocolate, then you might find this job is ideal for you. 

Attention to Detail 

Surprisingly, while chocolate factories do use machines, some of the work is done by hand. That means you should have exceptional attention to detail at all times and be ready to spot any inconsistencies. 

Imagine all of the times you've bought your favourite chocolate. Did it look different each time? Probably not. That's because the factory that produced it has strict quality control procedures to ensure that each chocolate they make looks precisely the same. 

What Are The Alternatives?

So if working in a chocolate factory isn't for you, how can you enjoy your favourite pastime and turn it into a career? Well, we've discussed becoming a chocolate taster, but those jobs are few and far between. 

Let's face it, lots of people would jump at the chance to get paid to eat chocolate, so while the jobs do exist, it's unlikely you'll find one browsing through Indeed. 

Opening a Sweet Shop 

The internet has given us many excellent opportunities, but the one that stands out most is the ability to start a shop without worrying about a physical location. E-commerce is one of the most popular careers, and confectionery offers plenty of opportunities for people. 

You'll need a name, a website, and a wholesale chocolate provider, but compared to the difficulty of starting other businesses, selling chocolate is relatively easy. But, of course, let's not forget that there's always the opportunity of eating your stock too! 

Are you sick of working for others? Is the morning commute getting you down? Do you look at those glamorous Instagram photos of people sitting on a Thailand beach with their laptop? It’s time for a change, so why not think about a future that you’re in charge of? 

Setting up a business is scary, but it can also be so rewarding. The best thing is, we all have a unique talent and skillset, so put it to good use. 

Still wondering what are the best business ideas in 2021? Well, here they are.

Print On Demand 

Print on demand is one of the most popular business ideas because it’s ideal for people of all ages to try. The idea of print on demand is to create your designs and use a third-party distributor to sell them. 

Not only is this idea perfect for artistic people, modern editing and graphic design software such as Canva makes it simple for anyone to create their own designs. 

From t-shirts and mugs to combining logo design with corporate print on demand, you can make a decent side income. 

Reselling 

Some people say there’s no profit in reselling, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Apps such as Vinted make it easy for people to get rid of their old clothes, and eBay is an excellent option for reselling your other items. 

Many people start off selling their old clothes and then searching through charity shops and car boot sales. Second-hand businesses often offer home clearance services, so they can acquire goods to sell on. 

You could even progress to creating a reselling website. The trick with reselling is a passion for recycling and advertising goods. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time trying to source items, you probably won’t get much out of the business. 

If you are willing to put time and effort in, you could end up with a full-time business that makes a sizable profit. 

Self Employed Cleaner 

If you ask people what’s the one thing they hate, we guarantee there will be plenty that say cleaning. It’s one of those chores that nobody wants to do, but we all have to. If you’re one of those rare people that enjoy getting the mop and duster out, then plenty of people will be willing to pay for your services. 

On average, cleaners can charge between £10 - £20 an hour, with higher rates in large cities such as London. 

It would help if you had a strong eye for detail, a sense of responsibility and a willingness to do a good job. Cleaning experience can lead to the opportunity to start your own business and scale out. 

Online Sweet Shop 

One thing is for sure; we love a sugary treat - and there’s nothing quite like sweets, is there? People are spoilt for choice, from traditional hard-boiled offerings such as lemon sherbert and pear drops to gummy delights, including Haribo Starmix and Gold-Bears. 

Today, there are plenty of sweet shops around, but that doesn’t mean you can’t start your own business. People actively seek out healthier options, so sugar-free confectionery is a business with lots of potential. 

You could also become a vegan sweet supplier, which will provide plenty of customers. Overall, you can do a lot, so it’s crucial to find the right supplier to fill a range of dietary preferences. 

Appleton’s Sweets offers a vast selection of wholesale confectionery, including gummies, traditional sweets and dietary candy. 

Freelancing 

Freelancing offers many opportunities, and many might start with a side hustle and progress into becoming fully self-employed. Imagine no commute, zero office politics and being able to work in your pyjamas every day! 

The trick to becoming a successful freelancer is to think about where your skills are and amplify them. For example, talented writers can make a good living blogging while maths whizzes can offer accounting services. 

There’s so much you can do, and while freelancing isn’t exactly a business, you could move into becoming a business owner with your team of freelancers. 

Meal Prep Business

Many of us want a healthy lunch every day, but few achieve that vision. If you’re a keen cook, then why not use your skills to feed others? Meal prep companies continue to grow because people don’t have the time to cook dinner every night. 

Instead of ordering takeaways, people are willing to pay for a meal prep service - as long as the food is of high quality. If you can offer vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free meals, you’ll probably attract a lot of customers. 

Pet Sitting 

For animal lovers, pet sitting offers plenty of opportunities to do something they genuinely enjoy. Pet sitting means you can spend long days with your furry friends and get paid for it. Most people start on a self.-employed basis, then progress into starting their own business when there are too many pets for them to handle. 

You should be willing to walk other people's dogs in all weather and be committed to promoting the safety and wellbeing of animals at all times. Most people will only trust you with their pets if you have insurance too. 

The Takeaway 

It’s vital that you think about the things you want to achieve with your small business, and don’t settle for the first idea you see. Passion and commitment to succeed are two essential component for self-employment. 

Just because something is more profitable, it doesn’t mean you’ll enjoy it. Think about the things you enjoy, where your experience lies and what type of business you want to create. 

For example, starting a digital marketing business will offer the most profit potential. But if you know nothing about marketing and lack creative or technical skills, then it’s unlikely you’ll turn the business into a success, unless you’re willing to put the work in. 

Most importantly, you should have fun, use this as a learning experience and enjoy the freedoms that being an owner instead of employee affords you.

It’s no secret that we’re a nation of chocolate lovers. We're spoiled for choice from old favourites such as Dairy Milk and Nestle to Green & Black’s and luxury Belgian chocolates. Whether you’re old or young, male or female, vegan or flexitarian, one thing's for sure; you probably like chocolate. 

If you’re one of those people that can enjoy a few squares of chocolate and save the rest for later (you have our full respect), then storing your chocolate can bring up some questions. 

Should you store it in the cupboard? Wrap it in clingfilm? How about putting it in the fridge? 

There’s a common misconception that storing chocolate in the fridge will keep it fresh and make it last longer. But in this post, we’re going to reveal why that’s the last thing you should do. 

The Cons of Storing Chocolate in the Fridge

The most common reason people store chocolate in the fridge is summer. The season is renowned for melting our favourite treats, so it’s only natural that people decide to keep it in the refrigerator. 

Unfortunately, not only does the fridge alter the texture of your chocolate, but it can also change the taste. Let’s take a look at what happens when you chill your favourite bar of candy. 

Texture Issues 

Creamy, silky, deliciously indulgent; chocolate is so much more than a taste sensation. If you’ve sampled Galaxy, you’ll be aware of a smooth texture, while Green & Blacks have a rich, yet delicate surface. 

Melted chocolate tastes delicious, especially when it’s combined with marshmallows or strawberries. But when it melts naturally, you can’t control the consistency, and many people often end up with a half melted mess. 

Storing it in the fridge might seem like the ideal option, but doing this means your chocolate can develop something known as a sugar bloom. 

When your chilled chocolate comes out of the fridge, the warmer temperature will cause the sugar to crystalise, which often leaves a white surface 

The biggest problem with crystalised chocolate is that it loses its silky texture and becomes grainy or brittle. 

Taste Issues 

Let’s face it, we buy chocolate for its taste, so many people would hate to lose that aspect due to putting their favourite bar in the fridge. While some think only the texture changes, there are almost certainly going to be problems with the taste. 

Cocoa butter is known to absorb odours and flavours, so when you store your chocolate in the fridge, it can end up tasting like your leftovers! The last thing anyone wants is grab a chunk of their favourite candy and find it tastes of broccoli. 

Chilling your chocolate can also stop it from releasing the flavours, so as you can imagine - you’re basically throwing your money away. 

What Can You Do?

It’s clear that storing your chocolate in the fridge isn’t a good idea, so how can you enjoy your favourite candy at any time of the year? Here are some fantastic tips for storing your chocolate and keeping it tasting delicious. 

To ensure your chocolate stays in tact, you should aim to store it at a temperature of between 10℃ to 20℃. The best place is usually in a cool cupboard or a cellar because the sun doesn’t affect those areas. 

In some rare cases, you might need to store your chocolate in the fridge - especially if we’re in a Great British heat wave (well, we can dream). 

Use an Airtight Container 

Your best option to preserve your chocolate is to use an airtight container. They’re excellent for storing food because the containers don’t allow any air to enter, and they can protect your chocolate from absorbing other flavours. 

There are plenty of containers around, but we recommend one with locking handles. Most people use them for meal prep because they keep vegetables and fruit fresh. 

Consuming Your Chocolate 

When you decide to eat your chocolate, you’ll need to remove it from the fridge at least 30 minutes before bringing it to room temperature. Don’t place the chocolate directly in the sun because you should gradually let it return to its normal state. 

Leave the chocolate in the container, and let it warm up before you serve it. Your candy will taste delicious, and you won’t have to worry about a grainy texture. 

Now you know that chocolate can be stored in the fridge; as long as you follow the proper steps, you can take advantage of the lower prices associated with wholesale chocolate. 

Things to Consider

In some cases, refrigerating your chocolate is necessary. For example, if you’re making chocolate covered strawberries, then you’ll need to melt it down, cover the strawberries with your chocolate and refrigerate the dessert. 

If you do decide to cook with chocolate, it’s best to use chocolate chips. They’re easier to manage, and most brands are designed for melting. You won’t have to temper the chocolate chips, and you’ll get the best results. 

Tempering is the process of slowly heating and cooling the chocolate, so it doesn’t crystalise. It’s incredibly complicated with everyday brands, but chocolate chips will give you a uniform finish without compromising taste or texture. 

The Bottom Line 

Chocolate is a delicious treat, and nobody should have to go without it. It’s one of the nations favourite indulgences, and if you do have the self control to save your candy for later, you can store it in the fridge. 

Appleton’s has a range of wholesale chocolate and confectionery available. Whether you’re a retailer, small sweet shop owner or just really love chocolate, we have some fantastic deals on big brands such as Cadbury and Nestle to craft chocolates from unique manufacturers. 

If USA candy is your thing, check out our range of Hershey’s and Reese’s pieces. The two brands are much loved worldwide, and Reese’s are packed with peanut butter for maximum flavour. 

We also have a selection of dietary sweets. Whether you’re vegan, diabetic or just on a diet, you can choose from chocolates, gummy candies and traditional boiled options. Shop today for our special offers.

The Coronavirus pandemic changed our lives, and nobody foresaw the impact it would have. We live in a world full of advanced technology, so it came as quite a surprise when everything shut down. 

Families were separated, lovers were torn apart, and our whole lives depended on online technology. While things are easing up, there are still restrictions that make it difficult for people to meet and enjoy time together. 

So if you're wondering how to show someone you care during the lockdown, here are some excellent tips for buying gifts. 

You don't need to see someone to show them what they mean to you, so sit back, relax and find out how to buy some incredible gifts for your loved ones.

Gift Giving is More Important Now Than Ever 

There's no doubt about it; times have been hard for everyone. Lockdown caused most of us to feel isolated, but mobile phones, video chat, and conferencing software mean many can enjoy keeping in touch with their loved ones. 

Gift-giving is about much more than sending someone a present. It shows someone you care, and that you're thinking of them. While some believe they have to spend a lot of money on their loved one, others understand that it's more about the gesture than anything else. 

When feeling low and isolated, it's common for depression to occur. But even something as small as a gift could make a significant impact. 

The Birthday Drink 

When you don't know what to get a friend, you take them for a birthday drink, right? One of the most felt impacts of lockdown was the pubs closing. While some of them are opening again, there's still a great deal of uncertainty about how long we can expect to have some freedom. 

Many people are still confined to their local area, and the government hasn't ruled out town lockdowns as a means to curb the virus spread. 

A great solution to the traditional birthday drink is to send your loved one a bottle of their favourite alcohol. 

Whether it's wine or alcohol, there are some fantastic options around. If you're feeling really generous, you can treat them to a craft beer or whisky subscription. 

Send Them Flowers

Flowers are a sure-fire way to add some sunshine to someone's life. Initially, they were more of a gift for women, but men can enjoy them too. It's no longer thought of as a feminine gesture, so if you're struggling to find the ideal Father's day or birthday gift for the man in your life - don't immediately rule out flowers. 

Due to their popularity, online florists have updated their services to cater for a new audience. There are plenty of options available, from large bouquets to packages that fit through a letterbox. You can find the perfect flowers for your needs. 

Most online florists also offer personalised messages and a choice of extra gifts such as chocolate or a teddy. 

A Sweet Surprise 

Of all the food groups out there, none bring the joy that sweets offer. Delicious, hearty, and full of nostalgic value, sweets truly do remind us of better times. So while you may not be able to cheer your loved one up in person, you can send them their favourite candy. 

Depending on their taste preferences, you can put together a small hamper or jar full of delightful favourites. Here are some sweets that everyone will enjoy. 

Traditional Favourites

Boiled sweets are always popular, and they've been around for longer than you've probably been alive! There are so many to choose from, including lemon sherberts, clove drops, strawberry and cream rose creams and violet creams. 

You can also mix it up with some bubblegum pips and chilli sweets to get the pulse racing. 

Haribo 

Haribo never gets old. It doesn't matter if you're an adult or child; those little gummy sweets are almost impossible to refuse. Traditionalists love Gold-Bears, while Starmix is the modern-day favourite. 

If your loved one enjoys dramatic flavours, then Tangfastics will deliver on all fronts. Let's not forget individual packs of those foam eggs everyone goes crazy for too. 

Back in the '80s

Ah, the 80's. It was a decade of great movies, big hair and Madonna. But let's not forget that it also produced some delicious sweets. From liquorice infused blackjacks to chewy fruit salads, you can choose some sweets for your loved ones. 

Let's not forget drumsticks and sherbet dips, which are unmissable for a retro sweets bag. Appleton Sweets provide a range of confectionery for all occasions at low prices. 

USA Delights 

The USA is a country that many of us would love to be a part of, especially when enjoying their sweet treats. One of the most favourite US confectioners is Reese's company. 

Imagine milk chocolate packed with gooey peanut butter, and you'll understand why this gift always goes down a treat. 

Things to Consider 

While people love receiving gifts, you shouldn't ever forget the card or special message. It's what your recipient will expect to see, and a gift without a card can seem somewhat meaningless. 

You don't have to pour your heart out, and for many people, it's the thought that counts. A simple 'thinking of you' message goes a long way. 

Shipping considerations are also important. While most companies offer a flat rate for UK delivery, you should always know what you'll spend before buying an item. 

If your loved ones live overseas, then you should try to send a package a few weeks in advance to avoid delay times. 

The Bottom Line 

Hopefully, our short lockdown gift buying tips and guidepost will help you choose meaningful presents for loved ones during this difficult time. It's no secret that lockdown has left many feeling miserable, but a bag of their favourite sweets might do the trick. 

Ultimately, it's the thought that counts. Whatever your budget is, we're sure that the people in your life will be appreciative that you took the time to consider them. 

Father's Day is fast approaching, and on the 20th of June, we'll all be showing the main man in our lives what he means to us. For some people, choosing a Father's Day gift is easy, but others might struggle. Men can be difficult to buy for, and if you've got a picky dad, you're probably dreading what to get him. 

Have no fear, because we've got a range of personalised Fathers Day gift ideas that are sure to please. Better still, some of them are inexpensive but offer a lot of meaning. Let's dive in. 

The Meaning of Father's Day

Fathers have always played an essential role in our life, and the tradition can be traced back to the middle ages. Traditionally Father's Day was held on St Joseph's day, but in the USA, it began due to one woman's mission to celebrate the importance of Father's in our lives. 

After her father died in a mining accident in 1908, American woman Grace Golden Clayton petitioned for a day to remember lost dads and their impact on their children's lives. 

In 1972, the USA made Father's Day a national day, perhaps to honour men that lost their lives fighting for their country. 

Today, we still celebrate the special day, and it's the opportunity for people to come together and show appreciation for their loved ones. 

The idea of Father's Day is for families to spend it together and offer gifts to the main man in their life. Most people celebrate with dinner, and it's similar to Mother's Day. 

If you're wondering what gifts you should buy, there are a range of options. The most important thing to remember is you don't have to spend a fortune on expensive gifts because it's the thought that counts. 

Here are some personal gifts that any man is sure to love. 

Simple But Sweet

Some people worry about what to get men, but there's no need. Sometimes all you need is your favourite bar of chocolate, and your dad is the same! If Cadbury's is his thing, then keep it simple with a personalised bar of Dairy Milk. 

It's one of the oldest chocolate bars around, but the creamy texture and delicious taste are why we still enjoy it. You can order a unique 850g bar with his name on it, and that's a great way to show you care. 

Not to mention, he won't be short of chocolate for a long time to come. 

Cake & Chocolate Set 

Cakes and chocolate; now those are two things no mere mortal can resist. So imagine combining the two for the ultimate Father's Day gift. Whether you make the cake yourself or buy it, he'll love it. 

Choose his favourite cake, and make sure you include a personalised message. Now for the fun part; selecting the sweets. 

You can mix it up with chocolate, such as Yorkie and Mars bars, or stick to traditional boiled sweets. Place the cake in a box, and put his favourite candy on top of the cake. 

Not only does this taste great, but it also shows how much you care. 

The Football Lover

FINALLY, after waiting for a long time, we're getting ready to watch England in the Euro's. The pandemic means the event had to be delayed, but this year is the perfect time to celebrate, making it through challenging times. 

Head to your local sports shop and pick up this year's England football shirt. If you want to go all out, you can even get it personalised with his name on the back. Once you have the shirt, you can get a round container, decorate it to resemble a football and fill it with his favourite sweets. 

Some great choices include chocolate footballs and traditional pick n mix sweets to enjoy watching the game. 

Retro Sweet Jar 

A long time favourite and sure to please, the retro sweet jar is a nostalgic surprise that takes people back to their childhood, from fan favourites such as lemon sherberts and humbugs to clove sweets, violet creams and chilli strawberries. 

You can choose any sweets you want and fill the jar to the brim. Add your dad's name to make it more personal, and we guarantee he'll love the gesture. 

Haribo Sweet Jar 

As the company says themselves, 'Kids and grown-ups love it so, the happy world of Haribo.' Everyone loves the gummy sweets that come in a range of flavours, so regardless of how old your father is, we guarantee he'll be happy with the surprise. 

Here are some of the most popular Haribo options: 

Gold bears: One of the oldest offerings from Haribo, these small jelly bears pack a whole lot of flavour in each mouthful. 

Starmix: The most popular Haribo choice, Starmix has a range of jelly sweets, including foam eggs and hearts. 

Tangfastic: Like Starmix but with one significant difference - Tangfastics are sour sweets with a huge flavour. 

The Hobbyist 

If your parent enjoys a particular hobby, then the best way to celebrate Father's Day is to show him that you do notice he's a human being too. Gwynedd Confectioners stock a range of themed gift sets, including a chocolate football box. 

We particularly like their golf set, which features chocolate clubs and a golfer. You can keep it simple by choosing a gift related to your dad's favourite hobby and adding some of your favourite sweets too. 

Whatever you choose, there are some excellent chocolate gift sets that won't break the bank and will be sure to please him. 

The Wrap Up

Father's Day is a cause for celebration, and while the day symbolises much more than gifts, it's always a good idea to get something special. Money isn't important, but small gestures often show how much you care, and it's the thought that counts. 

With so many gifts to choose from, it's crucial to think about what you can afford and the meaning behind the present you select. Appleton's has a range of candy for all tastes, and with our speedy delivery times, you can show your dad how much he means to you.

We all love giving and receiving gifts, but did you know that the way you wrap items says a lot about your personality and how you value the other person? 

In 1992, a psychologist named Daniel Howard decided to conduct an experiment measuring the sentimental impact of gift wrapping. He found that participants receiving a gift-wrapped item gave a more favourable rating than those that received the same gift in a plastic bag. 

It's clear that the way you offer a gift is important, so in this post, we're going to reveal some of the most creative ways to wrap a present. 

Use Crayons or Paint 

Let's face it; wrapping paper can get kind of boring. To mix things up, focus on using plain paper or brown paper and use your creative abilities to put a personal stamp on it. Here are some of our favourite ideas. 

Hobbies & Interests: We all have our hobbies and interests. Show your recipient you care by decorating the paper with theirs. For example, if they love animals, add cats, dogs and other wildlife to the paper. 

Children's Gifts: Kids love anything unique and colourful, so get your little ones to design their wrapping paper for birthday parties. With the average person spending around £630 per year on gifts (Your Money), households with children often end up having to budget to accommodate buying for birthday parties. 

Special Messages: Gifts should have meaning, so instead of buying some fancy wrapping paper, focus on writing your own messages and show that special someone how much you care. 

Edible Wrapping 

Edible wrapping is an excellent option - especially if you're combining it with some delicious sweets. Instead of putting all the sweets in a box, attach them to the paper. Your recipient will love the gesture. 

We recommend love hearts, bubblegum and other confectionery that comes in a wrapper. There are plenty of wholesale sweet options, so you'll have no problem finding the right ones. 

Confetti Dip 

This idea is so simple, but it stands out. Glitter is renowned for creating a lot of mess and staying on your clothes for weeks. But confetti is a great alternative, and it's less likely to fall off the present than glitter. 

Wrap your gift in plain paper and cover a section with glue. Dip it in a pot of confetti, and you'll have a lollipop effect. Essentially, it should resemble a Fab Lolly, with a combination of neutrals and a burst of colour. 

The Chalkboard Effect 

Another simple but effective wrapping technique involves taking a sophisticated approach to wrapping. Use black paper to wrap the gift, then write a special message in white pen, paint or chalk (depending on the paper you use). 

You can tailor the message to the recipient, and it's also a great way to get the whole family involved. Each member can add a unique message, which is a lovely gesture. 

If you decide on glossy black paper, then it's best to steer clear of chalk. Other types of paper combined with white chalk will create a retro look. 

Zero Wrapping Paper Techniques 

For some people, wrapping gifts is an opportunity to get creative. A minority might even dedicate an entire room of their house to gift wrapping. Others - however - end up with a present that looks like a five-year-old was let loose. 

If you can't get to grips with traditional wrapping paper and sellotape, then here are some creative ways to wrap a present without the fiddly stuff. 

Use Fabric 

The likelihood is, you've got an old t-shirt at home that you no longer want. If you're wrapping a relatively small gift, you can cut the shirt and use it to cover the gift. 

1. Cut your t-shirt into a square, making sure you leave plenty of room to cover the item. 

2. If your gift doesn't come with a box, it's probably best to use one. But if it has a flat surface, you should be fine. 

3. Place the fabric on your item/box base and wrap it over the item. 

4. Tie a knot at the top, or cut the fabric to make a bow. You can trim the ends to make it neater when you're finished. 

This method works with blouses, swatches and even denim. Just make sure you don't want to keep the clothing, and always use more than you think you need.

It's easy to cut the ends once you're finished, but using too little fabric means you're going to get through a lot of t-shirts. 

Glitter Boxes 

Glitter boxes are straightforward to make, and any arts and crafts novice can create something unique. Try to find a plain cardboard box and match it to the size of the item. You don't want a giant box for a piece of jewellery! 

Glue and glitter are the only things you'll need, and the process is incredibly simple. 

1. Cover your box with glue
2. Add the glitter. 

Seriously - it's that simple. You can go for one colour or opt for a rainbow of glitter. The gift looks impressive, and it's also a fantastic way to get the kids involved in arts and crafts. 

Use Gift Bags 

Ok, not the most creative wrapping technique on the list, but it's still worth mentioning. Bags are handy and mean you don't have to spend any time wrapping your gifts, but they'll still look fantastic. 

If you're sending sweets, then you can find retro-style bags that have personalisation features. Write your recipient's name on the front, and you'll have a cheap and cheerful gift with plenty of nostalgic appeal. 

The Bottom Line 

There are so many ways you can wrap presents, so don't be afraid to get creative. Remember, plain brown paper is often recycled, so you can contribute to the environment while not losing the aesthetic appeal traditional wrapping paper provides. 

We live in an age of endless opportunities and innovation. From technological advancements to a variety of foods to choose from, we're fortunate. People have so much choice; they don't question where their favourite treats come from and how they're made. 

One such treat is gum. Whether you prefer chewing gum or bubble gum, you probably don't know where it comes from, how it's made and if it's even considered a candy. 

In this post, we're going to answer all of those questions and tell you everything you need to know about gum. 

The History of Chewing Gum 

Believe it or not, the concept of chewing gum has been with us since the stone age. The sap of a Sapodilla tree produced a gum-like substance called chicle gum. Although we use synthetic alternatives today, the consistency is very similar to chicle gum. 

Types of Gum 

When it comes to gum, there are plenty of options available for all taste preferences. From traditional bubblegum to fruity flavours and even fiery cinnamon, you'll find a brand you love. But what about the types of gum? 

Pieces: Gum pieces are pretty small and have a hard coating. 

Sticks: Longer pieces of chewing gum without the harder coating. 

Bubblegum Balls: Traditional confectionery, similar to chewing gum pieces, but the balls are often coated in bright colours. 

Liquid Centre: A relatively new addition to the gum family, liquid centres are full of flavour and continue to grow in popularity. 

How Do Manufacturers Make Gum? 

The chewing gum manufacturing process is relatively standard across the world. It involves a series of essential steps to achieving the right taste, texture and consistency. 

Let's take a look at the step by step process. 

Chicle Preparation

While many manufacturers use synthetic latex to create gum, some still prefer the traditional chicle route. Producers score a chicle tree with large crosses and let the liquid run into a container. 

Once there's enough chicle, the producers heat it until it reduces in volume. The chicle is poured into moulds and left to set. 

The natural chicle or artificial latex goes through an intensive grinding process to make sure it maintains consistency. 

Next is the drying process. Once the blend is mixed enough, it dries in a room for up to two days. 

Cooking and Mixing

The cooking process involves heating the gum base at 116 degrees celsius. Once a syrup forms, the manufacturers will continue to filter the mixture to achieve the right consistency. 

Additives such as corn syrup and flavours are mixed into the gum base, and a fine sugar gives the mixture a sweet taste. 

When the mixture reaches a cool temperature, it goes onto belts to continue the cooling process. 

Kneading, Cutting & Packaging 

Machines take care of the kneading process, which smooths the gum to the right consistency. It's then rolled, cut into strips and wrapped in foil or wax paper. 

The manufacturers can then add the branding to the gum and send it off to the retailers. 

While there are various gum types, the basic manufacturing process is the same; there are just a few minor differences. 

Gumballs and Candy Coated Gum 

Gumballs are popular among young people, and they're made by scoring a cylinder of gum to create ball shapes. 

Once they harden, the balls are covered with colouring and flavour, giving each ball a unique taste. 

The balls are dried with warm air and then rolled in wax to create a shiny finish. Candy-coated gums are made similarly, but they're packaged in boxes instead of plastic containers. 

Drawbacks of Gum 

There are so many unique gum flavours around, and sugar-free versions are prevalent. Chewing gum has many advantages, including its ability to aid in healthy teeth, and a lot of people find it helps them stop snacking or smoking. 

With a strict manufacturing process, there's very little wrong with gum - apart from the flavour. The average piece of chewing or bubble gum retains its distinctive taste for approximately five minutes. 

There have been so many technological advancements, but manufacturers are yet to discover how to make gum retain its flavour. 

Most people find that while they enjoy chewing gum, the mint flavours tend to last a lot longer than others. 

So, Is Gum a Candy?

The short answer to this question is yes, but there are many conflicting opinions about whether or not gum is candy. 

What do people think?

Interestingly, more people consider bubblegum to be candy rather than chewing gum. 

Bubblegum often comes in traditional fruity flavours that are popular with children. Chewing gum has a variety of flavours too - but the most popular are peppermint and spearmint. 

Most think chewing gum is the adult alternative, so it's easy to understand why bubblegum is considered more of a candy. 

Businesses Views on Gum 

For most businesses, gum falls under the confectionery category. It's often made with sugar or sugar substitutes to give it a sweet taste which is why many class it as a candy. 

Wholesalers and retailers often advertise their gum in the confectionery section along with the chocolates and sweets, so it makes sense that many agree that the sweet taste and flavours mean gum is a sweet type. 

In a way, gum is similar to tomatoes in its categorisation. You can't (or shouldn't at least) swallow chewing or bubblegum, so technically, it's different to most types of candy. 

Tomatoes are fruit, but most people class them as vegetables because a tomato lacks the characteristic sweet flavours that other fruits have. 

The Bottom Line 

Chewing and bubble gum will always be popular, but they can't beat the traditional British sweet for some people. While gum is a great way to help you stay on top of a diet or quit smoking, most prefer actual sweets. 

Popular choices include jelly beans, Haribo sweets and wine gums. Whatever you choose, make sure you're getting the best value for your money and consider buying wholesale. 

We all enjoy giving gifts and love receiving them. But one of the most common worries for people is someone not appreciating the present. 

According to the BBC, giving someone the wrong gift can damage your relationship, so, understandably, you might worry that your presents are boring. 

Luckily, sentimental presents matter more than how much money you spend because people prefer something more personal. 

In this post, we'll look at some of the best creative gift ideas that are sure to please anyone. 

DIY Candy Bouquet

Candy and flowers are two ways to a woman's heart - so why not combine them? While some people choose to send an expensive bouquet and a box of chocolates, this post is all about getting creative. 

This DIY candy bouquet is ideal for people with a sweet tooth, and you can customise it to suit people of all ages. 

Here's what you'll need: 

• A selection of candies, including rectangular boxes if possible. 
• Glue gun 
• Tissue Paper (various colours) 
• Ribbon and other decorative features 

• Take your four boxes of candy and arrange them into a square. You should glue the edges to form a base. If you don't have candy boxes, you can use matchboxes or other materials - just make sure they're all the same size. 

• Take your wood skewers and glue them to the back of each candy bar or box. If you include heavy items such as Snickers or Mars Bars, you should glue two sticks to each one for added stability. 

• Add foam to the bottom of the vase to form a base, and add your tissue paper to the bottom. It should spill over the sides to create a bouquet. 

• Take some smaller pieces of paper and poke each skewer through it. You can then move the paper up to form a flower. 

• Arrange the candy inside the vase and add decorations such as ribbons and glitter. 

The piece of foam in the bottom of your vase should fit perfectly, but if it doesn't, you can    glue a piece of cardboard underneath it to keep everything stable. 

For The Green Fingered Person 

Did you know that gardening is the hobby at the moment? People of all ages enjoy the lifestyle benefits of growing their own vegetables and planting flowers, so why not give them a green-fingered gift? 

If you're going all out, then a wheelbarrow full of candy would undoubtedly make a statement. But for the more budget-conscious person, a watering can will be more than enough. 

All you need to do is buy a nice can, fill it with candy treats and add a few decorations. It's cost-effective, tasteful and shows you genuinely care about the recipient. 

Top Tip: The best thing about this impactive but straightforward gift is you can switch out the theme to suit your recipients personality. For example, you could fill a makeup bag with treats or a large coffee mug. 

Message in a Jar 

If you're not the sentimental type but want to show someone you care, then a message in a jar is the perfect way to do that. For example, a thank you message to someone who's supported you in difficult times or a loving message to your other half will pair perfectly with a selection of sweets. 

You can choose from a range of candy choices, including traditional boiled sweets, jellies and chocolate. 

Make sure you use bold writing, so your message is readable and laminate it if possible. 

DIY Chocolate Selection Box

One of the worst things about boxes of chocolate is they often come in one flavour or a selection of traditional flavours that not everyone enjoys.

If your recipient prefers creams over caramels, why not buy multiple chocolate boxes and create a bespoke selection for them? 

This creative idea is excellent if you're buying for lots of people at Christmas because you can save money while offering meaningful gifts. 

Beech's creams come in a range of flavours, but people often choose one box to save money. You can mix the creams to form selection boxes and include your recipients favourite flavours. 

Make the gift more personal by covering the box with custom made paper and adding people's names. They'll appreciate the gesture and this kind of present shows that you genuinely care about others and listen to them. 

Sweet Treasure Chest

Kids love surprises, and you can't get more creative than giving them a treasure chest full of delicious sweets. You can buy a chest or save money by using cardboard that you probably have at home. 

There's a great how-to guide on Pinterest, so if you plan on going for the DIY approach, it's worth a read. You can access it here. 

Once you've finished your treasure chest, you can choose which sweets to include. There are plenty of sweet boxes to choose from. 

Some of our favourites include: 

• Airheads 
• Blackjacks 
• Fruit Salad
• Catherine Wheels 
• Dib Dab
• Milk Bottles and Teeth 
• Flumps 
• Brain Busters 

The Candy Card 

Cards aren't the most exciting part of a gift, but we use them because it allows us to include a thoughtful message. If you're feeling creative, a candy card is a perfect way to brighten up someone's day. 

You can make a giant card and attach pieces of candy to it. If possible, you can swap the candy for words. 

For example: 

You're as cute as a button - swap the word button for a bag of Cadbury's buttons. 

Wishing you millions of happy years - swap millions for a bag of M&M's 

You get the idea! 

What we love most about this gift idea is it's so cost-effective but combines the three aspects of presents that people look for: 

• A card with a thoughtful message 
• Gifts that they'll enjoy 
• Personalisation 

The Wrap Up 

Gift giving is a centuries-old tradition, and while trends have changed - the sentiments the same. If you own a candy store, then it's essential that you provide a broad selection of sweets so you can cater to your audience. 

Appleton's supplies a range of wholesale sweets at cost-effective prices. With speedy delivery and a strong reputation, we're proud to be the go-to place for quality confectionery at low UK prices.