US-based chocolate producer Edward Marc Brands has merged into local investor Private Holdings’ Promise Collections confectionery portfolio.

The Pittsburgh-headquartered business will join three peers – Annabelle’s Candy, Pearson’s Candy,and Seattle Gourmet Foods – in the vehicle.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

Michael McGee, current CEO of Edward Marc Brands, will take on the role of chief executive at the enlarged grouping.

Financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.

The rationale of the deal is to create a competitive portfolio that “promises an unparalleled confectionery experience”. The companies’ aim to “position [themselves] as leaders in the confectionery and snack industries.”

“The merger aligns seamlessly with Promise Holdings’ vision of a stronger, more innovative, creative, and forward-thinking company,” said Gordon C.C. Liao and Jacqueline Brooks, founders and managing partners of Promise Holdings. 

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

“As Promise Confections embraces this transformative merger, we eagerly anticipate the infusion of Edward Marc Brands’ leadership, and we look forward to crafting a prosperous legacy together.”

The chocolate producer said in a statement, “Promise Confections stands stronger today, uniting a high-quality, geographically diverse manufacturing network across multiple confectionery platforms, alongside a fast-growing innovation powerhouse”.

With the executive leadership team from Edward Marc joining the leaders at Promise Confections, the acquirer is aiming to ensure a “seamless integration of expertise, service, creative vision,” with “strategic direction to drive enterprise success”.

McGee said, “Bringing together four dynamic companies, each with unique strengths and resources, we are confident that this partnership will pave the way for a prosperous and mutually beneficial future”.

Edward Marc Brands’ Edward Marc Chocolatier subsidiary makes the Snappers and Almonds chocolate product lines. The business manufactures bakery and deli products as well.

Promise Holdings is a private investment firm that invests in and helps operate early and late-stage businesses, primarily in the consumer industry.

Pearson’s Candy Company is a Minnesota-based confectionery producer. Its portfolio includes Salted Nut Roll, Mint Patties, Nut Goodie, and Bun.

Annabelle Candy Company manufactures Abba-Zaba, Rocky Road, Big Hunk, U-No, and ‘Look!’. It’s headquartered in Hayward, California.

Seattle Gourmet Foods produces Dilettante Chocolates and ‘Myntz!’. The company is based in Kent, in Washington state.

Just Food Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Food Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
Winning five categories in the 2025 Just Food Excellence Awards, Centric Software is setting the pace for digital transformation in food and FMCG. Explore how its integrated PLM and PXM suite delivers faster launches, smarter compliance and data-driven growth for complex, multi-channel product portfolios.

Discover the Impact