KANSAS CITY — The flood of pumpkin spice products has been quickly ushered out of the door in exchange for holiday-inspired flavors, as retail giants prepare for the seasonal switch to chocolate, peppermint and snickerdoodle-themed products.
Mars began adding holiday versions to its M&M’s and Dove brands. Now available in seasonal colors, M&M’s expanded with its newest variety of espresso dark chocolate, the second coffee flavor to join its lineup after caramel cold brew. The Dove brand released a holiday brownie batter flavor, which features a brownie batter filling inside of the company’s signature milk chocolate.
"At Mars, we like to say we're consumer obsessed, and that especially rings true during the holiday season as we look forward to delighting our fans with seasonal twists from fan-favorite brands like M&M's and Dove," said Allison Miazga-Bedrick, senior director at Mars Wrigley.
Blue Diamond is also getting into the holiday spirit with two varieties of coated almonds. The company released snickerdoodle-flavored almonds, which have a cinnamon sugar seasoning, and peppermint cocoa-flavored almonds, which are coated with chocolate and peppermint flavorings.
Hostess Brands added four holiday-inspired products to its portfolio. The holiday HoHos are making their debut, as well as holiday cupcakes, mint chocolate-flavored Twinkies and hot cocoa and marshmallow-flavored Donettes.
"With the holiday season right around the corner, consumers are anticipating the return of special flavors that capture the joy, delight and traditions of the season," said Christopher Balach, general manager of Hostess Brands, LLC.
