Reason for Induction: Recognized for pioneering the first gummies in the world with a distinguishable flavor – a feat deemed previously impossible. The former bricklayer started his business 30 years ago with $10,000! Today, Albanese products can be found nationwide and in 9 countries.
Scott Albanese is founder and CEO of Albanese Confectionery Group, a family owned company that is a destination for candy lovers. Described as a “solutions-based company,” Amazon gives Albanese gummies the highest rating. Indeed, Scott’s innovation was discovering how to get flavor release from gelatin based gummies. Albanese gummies come in many different flavors and colors; they are gluten free and fat free; they even come in sugar-free varieties.
Using a technique Scott developed over 2 years, the flavor grows while chewing the candy, according to Lorri Feldt, SBDC who honored Scott at the 2013 E-Day event he keynoted. “They have truly innovated in the way they flavor their gummy candy…Try a Haribo gummy and you’ll notice theirs produce less flavor as you chew,” she said. “They won a candy award for this innovation.”
Albanese innovates with nutraceuticals; producing gummy versions of supplements like Omega fish oil that also taste good. With products carried in 9,000 stores, their products can be found in local mom and pop stores nationwide to Disney Parks to Costco. Albanese is expanding with 190,000 sq. ft. edition more than doubling their size! Moreover, fans can get a behind the scenes look into the factory that uses robots. Started in 1983, Albanese has been featured on the Food Network multiple times attracting worldwide attention. Look for more innovations from this expanding company! The Fellow Award is sponsored by ArcelorMittal.
