The Hershey Company has finalized its acquisition of LesserEvil, an organic snack brand known for its bold flavors and focus on clean ingredients.
The move marks another step in Hershey’s expansion beyond confectionery into the fast-growing salty and better-for-you snack categories.
A Boost to Hershey’s Salty Snack Ambitions
Hershey said the deal strengthens its ability to offer a wider range of snack options as consumer interest in healthier snacking continues to grow.
The company’s salty snack portfolio, which includes SkinnyPop, Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels and Pirate’s Booty, has been one of its fastest-growing segments, increasing at a rate 1.5 times higher in 2024 than in the previous three years.
Key additions brought by LesserEvil include:
- Organic popcorn and puff snacks
- USDA Organic and non-GMO product lines
- Snacks made without artificial dyes or preservatives
- Products made with premium organic oils, such as unrefined extra virgin varieties
Kirk Tanner, Hershey President and CEO, said the acquisition supports the company’s broader goal of evolving its portfolio to meet shifting consumer expectations for both indulgent and better-for-you options.
LesserEvil to Operate with Existing Leadership
LesserEvil CEO Charles Cortistine said the company’s leadership team will remain in place following the acquisition. The team will continue to oversee product development, manufacturing and go-to-market operations, which have helped the brand gain traction in a crowded snack market.
According to Hershey, the combined teams will work on expanding the brand to new consumer groups, strengthening category insights, and increasing availability across retail channels while maintaining current product quality standards.
The company emphasized that LesserEvil will continue producing its snacks with the same organic ingredients that have shaped its identity.
The acquisition gives Hershey additional manufacturing capacity and brings a high-growth brand into its stable as it looks to shape what it calls “the future of snacking.”