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| Fannie May candy bars line the shelf. Photo provided by Fannie May. |
On Thanksgiving Day, a fire destroyed Fannie May Fine Chocolates’ warehouse and distribution facility in Maple Heights, Ohio. Fortunately, no injuries were reported due to the blaze. However, since the building was severely damaged, the company's peak holiday season operations were affected, as the company temporarily suspended online orders.
Fannie May Fine Chocolates' state-of-the-art production facility was not affected by the fire. And, the Fannie May team activated contingency plans and has been working around-the-clock producing more of Fannie May's iconic chocolates at its state-of-the-art production facility.
"While the fire impacted our company's operations during a critical time, we are thankful that no one was injured in the event," says Kevin Coen, president of Fannie May Fine Chocolates, which is owned by 1-800-Flowers. "I am very proud of the immediate response of our dedicated associates who have been working hard to make more chocolates, fulfill orders and deliver smiles for our customers this holiday season."
Although the exact cause of the fire is still unknown, 19 Action News reports that the “State Fire Marshall has taken over the investigation. Early on it appears that heavy equipment may have played a role.”
"They have some large coolers and freezers that they use to store all that product inside and it looks like the area that's been affected right now," said Lt. Sypen tells 19 Action News.
In the meantime, the candy maker is doing its best to serve its customers this holiday season, despite the fire.
Fannie May’s more than 70 Chicagoland retail stores are fully stocked for customers to purchase iconic favorites including Mint Meltaways,Pixies and Trinidads.
In addition, within days of the destructive fire, the Fannie May website was back online and is currently accepting e-commerce orders for the holiday season.
The company is grateful to the firefighters and other first responders who acted quickly on Thanksgiving Day and to its dedicated associates, vendors and suppliers who have worked diligently, around-the-clock, to help Fannie May Fine Chocolates rebound quickly.
The company also thanks its devoted customers for their continued support of the Midwest's iconic chocolate brand.
Fannie May Fine Chocolates says it will continue to work diligently to make additional confections; however, at times, there may be shortages of popular items this holiday season. The company hopes their loyal customers will understand the limited availability of some items as it continues its efforts to provide a full selection of chocolates.
