The Hershey Company has completed its acquisition of organic snack brand LesserEvil. A move which expands the US confectionery giant’s better-for-you portfolio.
“The addition of LesserEvil expands our portfolio of loved brands to meet growing consumer needs and occasions,” says Kirk Tanner, president and CEO of The Hershey Company. “Through strategic investments and product innovation, we’re delivering more of what consumers want in their lives - from better-for-you options to indulgent treats.”
“At LesserEvil, our mission has always been to create delicious, organic snacks that inspire mindful snacking,” adds Charles Cortistine, CEO of LesserEvil. “We’re excited to join Hershey, a company aligned with our values and our commitment to quality and community. This partnership will empower us to grow our vibrant culture, expand our reach to new consumers, and make an even greater impact together.”
Hershey confirmed the LesserEvil leadership team will “remain with the company”. However, there has been no word on the future of junior employees within the business.
The bigger picture: M&A momentum in food and beverage
Hershey’s move to acquire LesserEvil is part of a much broader trend sweeping through the food and beverage industry - strategic mergers and acquisitions aimed at capturing growth in high-demand categories. As consumers increasingly seek better-for-you snacks, plant-based options, and functional foods, major players are racing to diversify their portfolios beyond traditional offerings.
From PepsiCo’s investments in health-forward brands to Mondelēz’s expansion into premium snacking, the sector is seeing a surge in deals that blend scale with innovation.
For legacy companies, these acquisitions offer a shortcut to relevance in emerging niches, while smaller brands gain access to resources and distribution muscle to accelerate growth.
With inflationary pressures, shifting consumer habits, and heightened competition, expect this M&A wave to continue reshaping the landscape - creating a future where big food and nimble innovators work hand-in-hand to meet evolving tastes.
