Just Born: The Makers of Peeps and Other Sweet Staples

For over a century, the name Just Born has been synonymous with a colorful and iconic lineup of candies that have become sweet staples in American culture. From the marshmallowy goodness of Peeps to the fiery kick of Hot Tamales, these treats have a way of sparking joy and nostalgia in people of all ages. But what does it take to get these beloved candies from the factory floor to the shelves of stores across the country?

At Black Cat Importers, we understand the complex logistics and seamless coordination required to distribute top-tier brands like Just Born. We’ve dedicated ourselves to ensuring that every product we handle arrives fresh, on time, and ready to delight consumers. This article takes a peek behind the curtain to explore the fascinating history of Just Born and the vital role that expert import and distribution play in bringing their confections to the market.

A Century of Sweet Innovation: The History of Just Born

The story of Just Born began in 1923, when a Russian immigrant named Sam Born founded a small candy business in Brooklyn, New York. Sam was a true innovator, and his original company, Just Born, quickly gained a reputation for its fresh, high-quality candy. His passion for creating delicious and unique confections led him to invent machines that made candy-making more efficient. It was this spirit of ingenuity that laid the groundwork for the company’s future success.

The business truly took off in 1953 when Just Born acquired a small candy company in Pennsylvania that made marshmallow peeps. At the time, each Peep was meticulously crafted by hand, a slow process that took 27 hours to complete. Sam Born's son, Bob, took one look at the manual process and knew there had to be a better way. With a team of engineers, he invented a machine that could automate the production, cutting the creation time down to a mere six minutes. This innovation revolutionized the company and solidified Peeps as a year-round confectionery icon, not just a seasonal treat.

The Sweet Empire: Iconic Brands Under the Just Born Umbrella

While Peeps are arguably the most famous product, the Just Born portfolio is packed with other classic candies that have loyal followings. These brands have stood the test of time, and each one has a unique place in the hearts of candy lovers everywhere.

• Peeps: The undisputed king of Easter baskets, these marshmallow chicks and bunnies are a cultural phenomenon. They have expanded to holidays like Halloween and Christmas, proving their universal appeal.

• Mike and Ike: These chewy, fruit-flavored candies have been a movie theater staple since they were introduced in 1940. Their simple yet addictive taste has made them a go-to treat for generations.

• Hot Tamales: Known for their fiery cinnamon flavor, Hot Tamales have been delivering a unique spicy kick since 1950. Their distinct taste profile has made them a popular choice for those who crave a candy with a bit of a bite.

• Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews: With a history dating back to 1917, these chewy, peanut-filled delights were a Philadelphia staple before being acquired by Just Born in 2003. They represent a testament to the company’s commitment to preserving American candy heritage.

From Factory to Shelf: The Role of Expert Importers

For a company like Just Born, which operates on a massive scale, the journey from their Bethlehem, Pennsylvania factory to the international market is a logistical marvel. This is where a company like Black Cat Importers becomes a crucial partner. Our expertise ensures that these delicate and highly-demanded products are handled with the care and efficiency they require.

A seamless import and distribution process is vital for several reasons:

1. Maintaining Product Integrity: Candies are sensitive to temperature and humidity. An efficient import process ensures that products like Peeps maintain their perfect, marshmallowy texture and that Mike and Ike don’t melt or stick together. Our commitment to quality control and proper handling means the product a customer buys is exactly as the manufacturer intended.

2. Optimizing the Supply Chain: For a business to succeed, products need to be on shelves when customers are looking for them. Whether it’s a surge in demand for Peeps during the spring or a consistent need for Hot Tamales year-round, our ability to manage inventory, navigate customs, and handle all the details of international shipping is essential. We streamline the process to eliminate delays and keep the supply chain running smoothly.

3. Extending Market Reach: Partnering with an expert importer allows a company like Just Born to focus on what they do best—making candy. Black Cat Importers takes on the burden of global logistics, opening up new markets and reaching customers who would otherwise be out of their direct reach. We act as a vital bridge between world-class manufacturers and international consumers, helping iconic brands expand their global footprint.

The Black Cat Importers Advantage: Trust, Expertise, and Partnership

The story of Just Born is a powerful example of how passion and innovation can create a lasting legacy. But behind every great brand is a network of reliable partners who ensure that the products are available to the people who love them.

At Black Cat Importers, we are proud to play that role. We have dedicated ourselves to providing a hassle-free, efficient, and reliable import and distribution service. Our deep understanding of global trade, our commitment to customer service, and our passion for the products we handle make us more than just a distributor—we are a trusted partner in your success.

Just as Just Born has built a century-long legacy of sweet staples, we are building a legacy of excellence in global imports.

Ready to streamline your import and distribution process and expand your brand’s reach?

Contact Black Cat Importers today to learn how we can partner with you.