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Some companies just don’t fit the
mold.
Morris National, undoubtedly,
is one such example of a business that
prefers to do things its own way.
Take its product lines, for instance.
Morris National’s roots run deep in
importing European gourmet
offerings. While the company
continues to sell such products—and
today even manufactures some in the
U.S.—the focus is now shared with
novelty candies to bolster off-season
sales.
While it may seem like an unusual
tangent for a company known for its
sophisticated line of liquor chocolates
to take, the relationship with products
such as Tangy Zangy Sour Sticks works,
delivering added value to the
company and its customers.
24 CANDY INDUSTRY February 2008
visit www.candyindustry.com
Morris National creates upscale flavors and packaging for its traditional chocolate
truffles and liquor-filled chocolate lines, while also spearheading innovative novelty
candy launches. By Kelly Rehan
COVER STORYSurrounded by pallets of the company’s popular gift
collections, a portion of the Morris National team gathers in its
expansive warehouse. In front (left to right) Claude Douessin,
v.p. manufacturing; Gerry Morris, president; Marilyn Morris,
product designer; and Bram Morris, v.p. product development.
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Another tidbit to support Morris
National’s against-the-grain case is its
unpretentious status in the industry.
With estimated sales of $100 million
and double-digit growth over the past
several years, it looms large, but just
under the radar.
Clearly no small fry in the business,
the company keeps a low profile
because it remains a family business at
its core.
“We’re reasonably low key as
people—we’re not very flashy,” admits
Gerry Morris, president of Azusa,
Calif.-based Morris National. “What’s
important to us is that we do a very
good job and make a very good
product to maintain loyal customer