WASHINGTON – As Connecticut families begin to purchase chocolate treats and other candy ahead of the holiday season, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced that chocolate manufacturer Thompson Chocolate in Meriden is this week's "Murphy's Monday Manufacturer." Thompson Chocolate specializes in traditional and themed chocolates, such as large Santas, dreidels, gold coins, Easter bunnies and eggs, and many other foiled seasonal chocolate novelties.

Founded in 1879 by William H. Thompson, who had a desire to learn more about the confectionary industry, Thompson Chocolate became one of America’s first chocolate companies. These treats can be found on the shelves of nationally-recognized stores like Whole Foods and Vitamin Shoppe. Thompson Chocolate has been making chocolate in Meriden since it was founded about 140 years ago, but moved to its current location at 80 South Vine Street in 1973, where they employ over 100 people in a 120,000 square-foot facility. Thompson Chocolate produces more than 2 million pounds of chocolate annually.

“For nearly 140 years, Thompson Chocolate has been a household name around the country, and their savory sweets are made right here in Connecticut,” said Murphy. “Thompson Chocolate has remained true to their Connecticut roots and ‘Made in America’ business model, which has stood the test of time. I’m happy to highlight their work.”

“We are proud to manufacturer a local product with real, quality ingredients for our customers. We take pride in knowing that our chocolate is putting smiles on people’s faces across the country. Many of our dedicated employees have been with us for decades, helping produce some of the finest chocolate products in the nation,” said Kevin Scarpati, Sales and Marketing Manager for Thompson Chocolate.

The manufacturing industry plays a crucial role throughout Connecticut communities, creating new jobs and accelerating the state’s economic recovery. Today, Connecticut’s 4,600 manufacturers account for 10% of the state’s jobs and 87% of the state’s total exports. In order to protect and grow manufacturing jobs in Connecticut, Murphy has introduced two pieces of legislation that aim to strengthen existing standards and prioritize the purchase of American-made goods, the BuyAmerican.gov Act and the American Jobs Matter Act.

 

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