CandyRific Has Taken Over Sunkist Fruit Gems Production
The manufacturer has partnered with Sunkist Growers to bring the fruit candies back to retail shelves in early 2027.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Consumer Goods
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CandyRific has been named the new manufacturer for Sunkist Fruit Gems following a collaborative production transition. The individually wrapped, kosher-certified confections are scheduled to return to store shelves in early 2027.
Why it matters
The partnership preserves a long-standing licensed product line that has been in the market since the early 1970s. By securing a new manufacturer, Sunkist Growers ensures the brand continues its legacy of providing soft-texture fruit candies.
The Sunkist Fruit Gems brand has remained part of the Sunkist licensing program since its origin in the early 1970s. The relaunch in early 2027 marks the end of a production transition period conducted over several months.
The players
CandyRific
A confectionery manufacturer that has assumed production responsibilities for Sunkist Fruit Gems.
Sunkist Growers
A citrus marketing cooperative that manages the licensing program for Sunkist-branded products.
The details
CandyRific and Sunkist Growers collaborated over several months to manage the transition of the manufacturing process. The deal maintains the established product specifications, including the signature soft texture and the kosher certification that has characterized the brand for decades.
Timeline
Early 1970s: Sunkist Fruit Gems entered the Sunkist licensing program.
Early 2027: Sunkist Fruit Gems are expected to return to shelves.
Market Landscape
This production shift follows the established pattern of the Sunkist licensing program, which has maintained the Fruit Gems product line since the early 1970s. It signals the continued reliance on specialized confectionery manufacturers to sustain legacy licensed brands.
Retailers and distributors should monitor the supply chain rollout as the brand prepares to return to the market in early 2027. Operators should account for the return of this specific product segment when planning shelf space and seasonal confectionery resets.
The takeaway
Legacy brands often require production pivots to remain on shelves as licensing programs evolve. Operators should monitor the return of Sunkist Fruit Gems in early 2027 to gauge consumer demand for established, nostalgic confectionery products.
Further reading
For broader trends in the food and beverage sector, see Consumer Goods.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Drug Store News.
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