The Enigma of the Sixty-Year-Old Square, Colorful Chewing Candy: Unraveling a Mystery Entwined in Our Hearts
Sweet treats from youth: What are these confections called? - Nostalgic Fruity Sweets from Childhood: What's Their Original Name?
What on earth are these? — pointing to the vibrant, square-shaped chew candies that hold a sentimental value for millions of Germans. For six decades, their unchanging presence has been a constant in our lives - whether it's our first banking trip, a visit to the doctor, or carnival parades. Birthday celebrations wouldn't be the same without the iconic flavors of cherry, raspberry, lemon, and orange. But have you ever wondered about their name?
Comedian Ole Waschkau, a modern-day Sherlock Holmes, cracked the code on Twitter. They're called Bohme Fruit Caramels, crafted in Delitzsch, a picturesque town in Saxony. Speaking to "Wirtschaftswoche," Darren Ehlert, managing director of the Delitzsch Chocolate Factory and board member of the sister company Halloren, affectionately referred to them as "Frukas."
"Post-Berlin Wall's fall, the Delitzsch Chocolate Factory became a subsidiary of Wissoll, which moved production of multiple confectionery brands to Delitzsch," Ehlert explained in an interview with "Wirtschaftswoche." Today, the chocolate factory regained its independence and produces beloved treats such as Royal Mints, chocolate cream tablets, and, of course, Bohme Fruit Caramels. According to the "Berliner Kurier," they're among the factory's top-sellers.
A Stable Market for a Timeless Treat
The square candies might not be on a growth path, but their demand remains rock-solid at a high level, confirms Ehlert. Demand never waivers for Frukas because it's the only non-chocolate sweet in their range. Cherry and raspberry remain the most popular flavors, he informs the "Süddeutsche Zeitung."
Given their sustained popularity, one might wonder why the company hasn't sought to reinvent the Frukas. Ehlert admits they experimented with updating the packaging to a stand-up pouch, but customers vehemently opposed the change. Moreover, threats of boycotts poured in on social media if anything were altered.
Such is the deep bond between customers and Frukas that they evoke a wave of nostalgia. Ehlert attributes this emotional connection to the colorful candies being synonymous with cherished memories, first experiences, and close family relationships. People share memories of their childhood, associating Frukas with parents, their first visit to the bank, or hairdresser, he says to the "Süddeutsche Zeitung."
Bohme Fruit Caramels: A Nostalgic Delight Amidst Change
And what happens to these undisputed stars of carnival? Ehlert doesn't frown at their use as missile-like treats. "It's a bit disheartening to see food being thrown away, but carnival is all about tradition," Ehlert tells the "SZ." In fact, carnival season triggers a surge in sales, with customers buying the most candies two months after Christmas.
The secret to Bohme Fruit Caramels' consistent success lies in enduring demand, powerful emotional ties, and the age-old connection with carnival. In our ever-evolving world, they remain a slice of nostalgia worth cherishing.
Sources: "Wirtschaftswoche", "Süddeutsche Zeitung", "Berliner Kurier", Ole Waschkau on Twitter
- Fruit Caramel
- Nostalgia
- Carnival
- Delitzsch
- The community policy might not push for growth, but the demand for Fruit Caramels remains steadfast, a testament to its enduring popularity.
- In the realm of lifestyle, Fruit Caramels, these nostalgic treats, hold a sentimental value for millions, synonymous with cherished memories and first experiences.
- The employment policy of the Delitzsch Chocolate Factory, where Fruit Caramels are produced, has stood the test of time, with no plans to alter the classic product that brings in a significant portion of their revenue.
- In the fashion-and-beauty sector, one can associate the colorful Fruit Caramels not just with style, but with memories of family relationships and significant life events.
- With food-and-drink choices evolving, the home-and-garden industry offering myriad options, and pets needing specialized care, the travel and cars sector seeing innovative developments, Fruit Caramels from Delitzsch continue to thrive, a constant in our shifting world, evoking a sense of nostalgia.
