Appleton Tradition Since 1956
1956
Founding
Wilmar Candies was founded in 1956 by Wilbur and Mary Jane Srnka. No doubt the dream for their sweet venture took its root much earlier as Wilbur worked for a number of local candy establishments before deciding to strike out on his own.
That Fall of 1956 Wilbur found the perfect spot at the corner of Superior St. and Wisconsin Ave. in Appleton, WI. A building built in 1907 with the perfect bones to become Appleton's favorite chocolate shop.
1956-1984
Quality & Excellence
Wilbur crafted all the original recipes and was aided by his wife and seven children in running the chocolate shop. Their passion for quality, excellence, and customer service can still be felt in the business today. After 28 great years, Wilbur decided to sell the business and put an ad in the local paper.
1984-1990
Building a Brand
In the spring of 1984, Wilmar Candies was purchased by the Garvey family. The transfer of the business included a one-year apprenticeship. During this period the recipes and techniques were learned and passed on. The Garvey family took great care to grow the business and staff to serve a growing customer base in Wisconsin.
1990-2021
A Time of Growth
In 1990, under the Garvey's ownership, the company name was changed from Wilmar Candies to Wilmar Chocolates, better reflecting what was most loved about Wilmar. With the foundational skills imparted by the Srnkas, new recipes were successfully added to the traditional chocolate lineup. During this time the Golden Boxes, synonymous with the Wilmar Brand were introduced along with our Signature Assortments.
2021-2024
A Family Business
After nearly 37 years of ownership, the Garvey family decided to pass their business to a new generation of chocolate makers.
The Houlihan family quickly connected with the Garvey family over a shared passion for quality chocolate and love of family. It was a perfect fit! The Houlihans founded Four Brothers Chocolates in Wheaton, IL in 2011 and were excited for the opportunity to grow their business and move to Appleton, WI to learn the traditional ways of making fine confections and to work with a wonderful staff.
2024-
Commitment to Excellence
Through all the years and all the changes that Wilmar has seen over its 68 years, the commitment to hand-crafting fine confections with the finest of ingredients has remained unwavering.
Our team takes great pride in the history of our brand and we are thankful for the opportunity to steward Wilmar Chocolates for generations to come.
We will always have a free sample for you . . . Like Wilbur used to say: "We build our reputation one bite at a time."