The company, founded in 1899, manufactured a wide variety of bulk panned and starch-moulded non-chocolate candy, including soft-and-chewy fruit-flavored sours and quality re-bagged items.

“Unprecedented price competition, together with increasing sugar and other raw materials costs, has led to this decision,” says Amy Atkinson Voltz, President of Judson-Atkinson Candies, Inc. “This has been a very difficult decision for the owners; however our business and costs trends are consistent and similar to many businesses like ours around the country. We are incredibly proud of our employees and wish to thank them and our customers for their loyal support.”

Based in San Antonio, Texas, Judson Candies was purchased by the Atkinson family in July 1983 – forming Judson-Atkinson Candies, Inc. – though the company’s history dates back more than 100 years.

Known for sweet treats like chewy pralines, salt water taffy, fruit drops, and jelly beans, the company grew to employ about 100 workers over the years. After ceasing manufacturing operations, all but a few employees are now out of work because the company cannot continue to pay employees while paying existing bills.

“It is a shame to see a hard-working family company like Judson-Atkinson close its doors, especially this close to the holiday season,” says Larry Graham, Chairman of the Coalition for Sugar Reform and President of the National Confectioners Association (NCA). “This unfortunate story is yet another example of why reform of the current government-controlled U.S. sugar policy is so desperately needed.”

For more information about the Coalition for Sugar Reform, visit www.SugarReform.org.