WXXA-TV FOX 23 - Local candy maker doubling its workforce

Its been a tough few years for a local candy company.

They've made it through a flood and tough funding times, now, they're expanding.

While their business is sweet, at times its been anything but over the last few years.

Richardson Brands has endured a major flood, even a threat to lose their power source if funding didn't come through.

Now, a new boiler is installed and their candy is flying off the line.

Soon, they'll welcome 70 new employees.

COO & CFO George Lasher says, "its a fun place to work. Its Willy Wonka's factory, its a candy place."

The new workers will double the company's workforce.

They will continue to make the candy they are known for and make new products coming in with workers from Connecticut and Missouri plants.

Employee Esther Simpson says, "it has been exciting to watch it grow every day."

Simpson is the third generation in her family to work at the Canajoharie plant.

She started in gum during her summer breaks and today, works up in the offices.

Her family and others in the Montgomery County village count on the local plants.

Lasher says the company is growing, trying to help the businesses in the village that depend on workers who go there for lunch or on breaks.

With big employer Beech Nut moving out of town, it has put a strain on the community.

Simpson says, "for people who are retired its going to be a stretch. They will have to pay additional money in electric and water."

Richardson Brands hoping this expansion will help ease that burden.

Hoping to strengthen their community and helping their neighbors makes their success even better.

Workers from the Connecticut plant will start work this coming monday.

Workers from the Kansas City, Missouri plant start in January.

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