Blommer Chocolate Company is one of North America’s most historic and influential chocolate makers, yet many people today wonder whether this iconic business is still operating. From its early days in Chicago to its evolution into a modern chocolate ingredient supplier, Blommer has played a key role in supplying cocoa products to confectionery brands across the continent. In this article, we’ll explore the company’s rich history, current status, recent changes including the closure of its Chicago factory, and what the future might hold for this venerable chocolate business.
History of Blommer Chocolate
Blommer Chocolate Company was founded in 1939 by brothers Henry, Al, and Bernard Blommer. It quickly grew to become one of the leading cocoa processing and chocolate ingredient companies in North America.
For decades, Blommer’s original factory in Chicago’s River West neighborhood was not only a production site but a local cultural landmark. The factory was famous for the aroma of roasting cocoa that drifted across the city streets. The company specialized in processing cocoa beans into chocolate liquor, cocoa butter, and other ingredients used by confectioners, bakers, and food manufacturers, rather than producing branded candy bars for consumers.
In 2018, Fuji Oil Holdings Inc., a global food ingredient company, acquired Blommer Chocolate Company. Under Fuji’s ownership, Blommer continued investing in research, product innovation, and expansion into new markets while maintaining its legacy in chocolate production.
Is Blommer Chocolate Still in Business?
Yes — Blommer Chocolate Company is still operational and actively doing business today. While its historic Chicago manufacturing plant has closed, the company continues to produce and supply chocolate ingredients and cocoa products through its remaining facilities, and it remains a key player in the industry.
Rather than disappearing from the market, Blommer has shifted its operations and strategy to adapt to changing industry conditions, allowing it to remain relevant and competitive in North America’s cacao and chocolate supply chain.
Current Business Status
Blommer operates as a major cocoa processor and chocolate ingredient supplier for businesses across the confectionery, bakery, dairy, and food industries. The company’s corporate headquarters and research and development center remain in downtown Chicago’s Merchandise Mart, even after the closure of its original factory.
Today, Blommer not only focuses on its core manufacturing operations but also offers technical support and research and development services. Its expert teams help customers innovate with chocolate formulations, process optimization, and tailored solutions for specific product needs. Despite changes in its physical footprint, Blommer’s business model continues to focus on quality, service, and sustainable cocoa sourcing — factors that have helped sustain its operations over many decades.
Chicago Factory Closure: What Happened?
One of the biggest recent changes for Blommer was the closure of its Chicago manufacturing plant in 2024. The decision to shut down the historic facility — which had been producing chocolate since 1939 — was driven by rising maintenance and operating costs associated with its aging equipment, making continued operations unsustainable.
The closure marked the end of an era for many Chicago residents who grew up with the aroma of chocolate drifting through the neighborhood. About 250 jobs were affected, though some employees were offered roles in other facilities operated by the company.
While the Chicago plant stopped production, Blommer’s headquarters, research labs, and administrative operations remain in the city. The company has also invested in expanding its R&D capabilities at that site, showing that Blommer still maintains a strong presence in Chicago even after the plant’s closure.
Other Production Facilities and Operations
Although the Chicago factory is no longer operational, Blommer continues to manufacture chocolate and cocoa products through other facilities across North America. Major production sites include East Greenville, Pennsylvania; Union City, California; and Campbellford, Ontario, Canada.
These plants are key to Blommer’s ongoing manufacturing strategy and have seen recent capital investments aimed at increasing capacity, automation, and product development support. Blommer’s focus on evolving its production footprint reflects changes in market demand and the need to optimize operations in more cost-effective locations while supporting long-term growth.
Products and Services Offered by Blommer
Blommer produces a wide range of cocoa-derived products that serve as foundational ingredients for many consumer foods. These include cocoa butter, cocoa liquor, cocoa powder, chocolate and chocolate panned products, and specialty coatings and confectionery ingredients.
In addition to manufacturing, Blommer provides services such as commodity risk management and technical assistance, helping customers navigate market volatility and optimize their product formulations. The company has also introduced innovative product lines designed for enhanced texture and performance in confectionery applications.
Blommer’s Role in the Chocolate Industry
Blommer has long been recognized as a leader in industrial chocolate supply. While not always visible to retail consumers, its products underlie many branded chocolates and confections produced by other companies.
As the largest cocoa processor and ingredient supplier in North America, Blommer plays a critical role in the chocolate production ecosystem. The company’s emphasis on research, customer support, and commodity market expertise has further strengthened its reputation among food manufacturers and industrial clients alike.
Future Outlook for Blommer Chocolate
Looking ahead, Blommer appears set to continue its transformation while maintaining operational strength. Investment in research and development, modernization of other production sites, and enhanced product offerings signal that the company is focused on long-term relevance and sustainability.
Rather than disappearing from the industry, Blommer is evolving — balancing its historic legacy with strategic growth in new areas, such as specialty coatings and ingredient innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blommer Chocolate
Is Blommer Chocolate still in business?
Yes — the company continues to operate through other production facilities and its Chicago headquarters remains active.
Why did Blommer close its Chicago plant?
The closure was due to rising maintenance and operating costs at the aging facility.
Does Blommer still make chocolate products?
Yes — its remaining facilities in Pennsylvania, California, and Canada continue chocolate production.
Conclusion
Blommer Chocolate Company remains a strong presence in the chocolate industry, even as its historic Chicago manufacturing plant has closed. With a focus on modernizing production, expanding research and development, and supporting customers across North America, the company continues to supply essential chocolate ingredients and innovations that help power countless confectionery products. While the aroma of chocolate may no longer float over downtown Chicago, Blommer’s legacy and contribution to the world of chocolate live on.
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