When it comes to pick-and-mix, foam and gummy sweets often take centre stage. But think back to the days of Woolworth’s… did chocolate make it into your bag? Probably.
From Jazzles to Choc Nibbles and those little mice that you people either loved or hated, chocolate is still central to the pick and mix experience.
So, in this post we’ll skip the sweets and reveal the best chocolate options for your confectionery store or event.
Why Chocolate is a Must-Have for Pick and Mix Selections
Pick and mix has always been a treat for children and adults alike, because it's all about variety. There's something for everyone, including jelly sweets, traditional boiled candy, foam favourites, and chocolate.
While fizzy sweets provide a sharp taste and gummies are universally popular, chocolate has a creamy texture that melts in the mouth, making a nice change.
Plus, with younger children, parents usually think about safety. Hard sweets, lollipops, and even some gummy sweets can pose choking hazards, but chocolate suits people of all ages.
So, now you know why chocolate should feature in your pick and mix collection; it’s time to look at the classics, and some unique additions.
Chocolate Raisins
Chocolate raisins have been a sweet shop and cinema favourite for generations. It’s a simple concept really; you take a fruity and chewy raisin, add a layer of creamy chocolate, and you’re onto a winner.
Classic Milk Chocolate Raisins are ideal for adults and children, while Dark Chocolate Raisins are popular among older adults.
Alternatives
The best thing to combine with chocolate raisins? Chocolate-covered nuts, of course (there’s a reason Dairy Milk Fruit and Nut is still a top seller). Aside from the traditional Chocolate Peanuts, we have Chocolate Brazils and Almonds.
If you’re looking for something unique, Chocolate Honeycomb bites are like mini Crunchies bars.
Choc Nibbles
Choc Nibbles are a fan favourite with a loyal following, but they can be hard to explain if you've never tried them before.
They don't look like traditional chocolate, but that's because they combine biscuit pieces and caramel, then add a sprinkle of icing sugar to create the unique aesthetic.
You'll also notice that Choc Nibbles aren't uniform. Each has a unique shape, which adds to their charm.
While the Traditional Chocolate flavour is still the all-time favourite, there are loads of delicious combinations to try.
These include Toffee Crumble, Mint Choc, and Jaffa Cake Choc Nibbles, which are excellent additions to your pick and mix counter.
Chocolate Jazzles
While you might associate chocolate raisins with a cinema treat and Choc Nibbles as something you'd share with your gran, Jazzles are synonymous with the pick-and-mix experience.
With their creamy texture and vibrant sprinkles, Jazzles are impossible to ignore, and most people agree they're non-negotiable when filling a bag with treats.
If you're looking for classics, the Milk Chocolate and White Chocolate Jazzles discs are perfect, but Mega Jazzles are great for chocolate fans.
Hannah's also offers Star-Shaped and Chocolate Orange Jazzles, which will instantly stand out.
Other Popular Options
Looking for something more unique? Here are some excellent alternative chocolate pick and mix options.
Chocolate Mice
Chocolate Mice have divided opinions. Some people can’t get enough of the sugary flavour and somewhat waxy texture, while others are happy to leave them. Either way, not offering these unique pick-and-mix classics could backfire.
Both Milk Chocolate and White Chocolate Mice will bring back fond memories for fans, while the Pink and White Mice can add some colour to your chocolate section.
Foil Covered Chocolate
Foil-covered chocolate sweets are practical additions to your pick and mix collection because they let customers mix and match freely.
For example, if someone wants to add some fizzy or sugar-covered sweets, they’ll usually impact the taste of any chocolates.
But foil protects the chocolate and adds some nostalgic appeal. Options like Chocolate Eggs, Footballs, and the eternally popular Chocolate Coins will always sell.
Chocolate Foam Sweets
Foam sweets remain highly sought after, with brands like Bubs even making vegan alternatives to traditional shrimps and bananas in response to consumer demand.
So, it seems only natural that someone decided to elevate foam sweets with a decadent chocolate coating.
Hannah’s Chocolate Bananas add a unique twist to the classic foam sweets, while Franssons Foam Dolphins combine chocolate with strawberry - always a winning combination in our opinion.
Classic Chocolates
Last but not least are classic chocolates that you’ll find in traditional sweet shops. As many of these are individually wrapped, they’re also ideal for pick-and-mix counters.
These chocolates also add a sense of sophistication for older customers who prefer a more decadent mix.
Our top recommendations include Milk Chocolate Caramels, Peppermint Creams, and Chocolate Toffees.
Elevate Your Pick and Mix Collection Today
Pick and mix has changed over the years, from physical counters in retailers to online sweet shops, but the popularity of these sweets is undisputed.
The key to turning pick and mix sweets into your biggest sales engine is knowing your audience.
If you have a traditional sweet shop, nostalgic classics are a good choice, while confectioners that cater for all ages can offer a mix of sweets.
Most people will expect chocolate when they look for pick and mix sweets, and you can stock up on fan favourites with Appleton’s. As one of the UK’s longest-running wholesalers, we provide affordable chocolate from respected brands.
Our customers can shop their way, with no minimum order amounts and free UK delivery on orders over £500. Our team of confectionery experts is also here to help. Just get in touch with us today.