History

Our founder, Chris Naum, immigrated from Greece to Canada in 1905. There, he worked diligently to learn the art of candy making from his uncles. In 1919 Chris came to America and started his own business, Sweetland Candies. Chris moved his business to several locations in the West Michigan Area and eventually became established in the Northeast area of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The shop began to thrive after World War II, at which time his son, John S. Naum, Sr. (second generation) joined him and learned the trade. Chris died in 1962. At that time his son John took over and expanded the business, maintaining the same standards of quality that Chris founded the business upon. In 1975 John's son, John S. Naum, Jr. (third generation) joined the business and learned the trade. Together they worked side by side to expand the business. In 1985, they built the present headquarters of Sweetland Candies. Since 2008, John Jr.'s son, Andrew J. Naum (fourth generation) has been learning the art of candy making from his grandfather, John Sr.

The business continues to grow and succeed today due to a loyal and dedicated team of employees and family members. The principals that Chris Naum founded our company on over 90 years ago, remain today.

Today, Sweetland Candies are sold at our two retail shops in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in select gift shops, to corporate accounts, and through mail order on the Web.

Candy counter at original Plainfield store, circa 1940's


Summer display window at Burton Heights Store, circa 1920's


Candy counter and soda fountain of Burton Heights Store


Christmas display window at Burton Heights Store, circa 1920's

The Sweetland Pledge

Our customers are the most important part of our business, and your pleasure and satisfaction is our first concern! We strive constantly to provide our customers with chocolates and candies that are at the peak of freshness and flavor. If you are ever dissatisfied in any way with our products or service, please give us a chance to make it right. Please come to one of our shops, call or write us.

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