CandyO

CandyO is an independent confectionery company headquartered in Milan, Italy, that specializes in handcrafted chewy candied fruits and premium chocolate‑coated sweets. Founded in 1998 by pastry chef Marco Bianchi, the brand originally focused on revitalizing classic Italian sweet recipes for a contemporary market. Over the past two decades CandyO has expanded its product line to include a range of seasonal and themed collections, such as the festive “Festa” series and the vegan “Zurba” line, which features chocolate made from alternative dairy substitutes.

The company operates a single production facility in the outskirts of Milan where ingredients are sourced from local farms and artisanal suppliers. CandyO emphasizes traditional techniques while employing modern quality‑control protocols, resulting in a consistently high standard of taste and texture. All products are manufactured under hydroxypropylmethylcellulose‑free and with minimal added sugars, appealing to health‑conscious consumers who still desire indulgent treats.

CandyO’s marketing strategy relies heavily on artisanal storytelling and a strong presence on social‑media platforms, where seasonal recipe videos and behind‑the‑scenes features engage a global audience. In 2015 the brand received the European Artisan Sweet Award for “Innovation in Traditional Candy,” and in 2021 it partnered with an Italian university to study the environmental impact of sugar production. The company is privately owned and has remained family‑run, with Marco’s daughter, Elena Bianchi, currently leading product development.

Although the brand has not publicly disclosed financials, industry reports estimate annual revenues of approximately €12 million, with a growing export portfolio that now includes the United States, Japan, and several emerging European markets. CandyO continues to balance the heritage of Italian confectionery with innovative product development and sustainable practices.