Wrigley’s Spearmint™ chewing gum first appeared in 1893, just months after the introduction of Juicy Fruit®. Thus, Wrigley’s spearmint has been around for over a century. Well, it’s time, as they say, and an honor to know. According to a report by the Rheinische Post (RP), the American manufacturer Mars ceased production of the iconic chewing gum in Germany at the end of last year.
According to the Rheinische Post, the American manufacturer Mars is in danger of completely removing “the entire range of Strip and Mini Strip chewing gum” from its portfolio. Falling demand resulted in low sales figures. Their volume has decreased by almost a third. “Unfortunately, we can no longer offer you anything that can replace chewable plates,” a company spokeswoman responded to a PR question. According to her, the marketing department of the group should be responsible for such decisions. Since the beginning of the year, only chewable dragees have been produced and sold.
The chewing gum of the largest manufacturer in the world – the company of William Wrigley Jr. has been produced since 1893. Founded in 1891, the company sold soap and baking powder, which Wrigley offered – as a marketing ploy – with each packet of soap. In 1892 William came up with the idea of including two packets of chewing gum with the powder. This offer has been a hit with customers, which has driven sales growth. Although many companies are involved in gum production, Wrigley decided to take the risk. Initially, two types were produced – Vassar and Lotta. In 1893 Juicy Fruit began production, completing Wrigley’s spearmint range.
In 1925 Wrigley opened the first German factory in Frankfurt. Some time later, in 1932, it had to be closed. In 1955 a new production plant was opened in Düsseldorf. In 2008, Mars Incorporated acquired Wrigley. The company was sold for a whopping $23 billion.
