In the cutthroat world of chocolate bunny production, the national big guys, such as Palmer Candy Co. and Russell Stover, dominate the shelves of the retail chains. Nevertheless, locally owned Merlin’s is standing firm, just like Hubig’s Pies going eyeball-to-eyeball with Little Debbie, Abita facing Budweiser.
Now owned by Harahan-based Big Easy Chocolate Inc., Merlin’s, which started on Magazine Street in New Orleans in 1947, is churning out its classic hollow and solid rabbits decorated with a candied eye and bow. Under Big Easy, the product is widening its distribution to some national chains, so the little bunny that could might become a big player itself one day.
Meanwhile, we at the home base need to support the local products, and that includes Ponchatoula-made Elmer’s Heavenly Hash (possibly the best egg-shaped candy ever), Gold Brick Eggs and Pecan Eggs.
Competing as a small business in the era of global manufacturing is no bowl of jelly beans. Let’s put our money on the little guy –– even if he is a bunny.
Krewe: The Early New Orleans Carnival – Comus to Zulu by Errol Laborde is available at all area bookstores. Books can also be ordered via e- mail at gdkrewe@aol.com or (504) 895-2266.
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