For candy lovers, there’s nothing more frustrating than discovering that your favorite sweet treat has been discontinued. Whether it’s a beloved childhood candy or a recent indulgence, the end of production can feel like the end of an era. But all hope is not lost! If you’re wondering where to find discontinued candy, there are several places to check out that may have exactly what you’re looking for. Let’s explore some of the best options for purchasing discontinued candy.
1. Online Marketplaces
One of the best places to find discontinued candy is on online marketplaces. Websites like eBay, Amazon, and Etsy often have sellers who specialize in rare and hard-to-find items, including discontinued candies. You can either bid for an item on eBay or buy directly from sellers who stock vintage and hard-to-find candies.
- eBay: This platform is a treasure trove for discontinued candy. You can search for specific brands, types, or flavors, and often find candies that have long been out of production.
- Amazon: Sometimes, you can find discontinued candy listed by third-party sellers. Keep in mind, the prices for these candies can be higher due to their rarity.
- Etsy: Known for handmade and vintage items, Etsy also has sellers who specialize in rare candy, offering old favorites that are no longer available in stores.
2. Specialty Candy Stores
Many specialty candy shops online cater to those seeking discontinued or rare treats. These stores often have a selection of candies that were once popular but are no longer available in mainstream supermarkets or candy aisles.
Some popular online candy stores that may carry discontinued items include:
- Old Time Candy: Known for stocking a wide variety of nostalgic and discontinued candy, Old Time Candy is a go-to for those looking to relive their favorite childhood treats.
- CandyWarehouse: This store has a vast selection of bulk candy, and you may be able to find some discontinued favorites. It’s worth checking regularly for restocks.
- Dylan’s Candy Bar: While they are best known for their current candy selection, Dylan’s Candy Bar often carries vintage and discontinued candies as part of their rotating stock.
3. Specialty Grocery Stores
Some grocery stores and retailers have a history of carrying retro or discontinued candy in limited quantities. These are often available in specialized sections of the store dedicated to nostalgia or “retro” foods. Examples of stores that might carry these items include:
- Target: Occasionally, Target will carry special releases of discontinued candies or limited-edition retro candy lines.
- Walmart: While not known for stocking a large selection of discontinued candy, Walmart occasionally carries special or seasonal releases that may include older favorites.
4. Social Media and Forums
For some real gems, social media groups and forums can be a great resource. There are several Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and forums dedicated to candy lovers where people exchange information about where to find discontinued items.
For instance:
- Facebook Groups: Groups like “Candy Lovers Unite” or “Candy Collectors” often have members sharing links to rare candy or offering to sell or trade discontinued treats.
- Reddit: Subreddits like r/candy or r/nostalgia sometimes have discussions about where to find discontinued candies, or people may post links to online sellers.
5. Local Candy Stores and Flea Markets
If you prefer to shop in person, local candy stores and flea markets might have a selection of discontinued treats. Small, independent candy shops sometimes specialize in hard-to-find or retro sweets, so it’s worth calling around to local stores to ask if they have what you’re looking for.
Flea markets and antique shops are also places where you might find old stock of discontinued candy. Vendors may have unopened candy from years past, so be sure to ask around!
6. Direct from the Manufacturer
In some cases, contacting the candy manufacturer directly can yield results. Some candy companies may have a limited stock of discontinued items or may be able to point you to retailers who still carry them. For example, you can reach out to the customer service department of brands like Hershey’s, Nestlé, or Mars to inquire about discontinued products.
7. Candy Subscription Boxes
Certain candy subscription services focus on sending customers a curated selection of nostalgic or rare candies. If you want a surprise selection of discontinued and hard-to-find sweets, a subscription box might be the perfect solution. Services like Candy Club or Treats and Sweets Box occasionally offer retro or discontinued candy as part of their monthly boxes.
Conclusion
While finding discontinued candy can be a bit of a scavenger hunt, there are plenty of ways to satisfy your sweet tooth for long-gone treats. From online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy to specialty candy stores and social media forums, there’s a good chance you’ll track down your favorite discontinued candy. Don’t forget to check out your local candy shops or even reach out to the manufacturers themselves. With a little effort and patience, you might just be able to bring back those sweet memories of the past!