Arway-Long Grove Confections

The story of Arway-Long Grove Confections is a tale of two Chicago-area traditions coming together to create a confectionery powerhouse. It began in 1950 when Arthur Resnick and a partner purchased a struggling candy company called Sovereign Candy. Renaming it Arway Confections, they found their first major success with a local buyer from Sears Roebuck & Co., who was impressed by their Chocolate Pecan Caramel Patties. This partnership with the nation's largest retailer at the time launched Arway on a trajectory of growth, establishing a reputation for high-quality bulk confections, roasted nuts, and dependable service that would span decades.

Parallel to Arway's rise, another sweet story was unfolding in the picturesque village of Long Grove, Illinois. In 1975, the Long Grove Confectionery Co. opened its doors in a nostalgic replica of a red schoolhouse. Famous for its 'Myrtles'—salted pecans covered in caramel and chocolate—and its open-kitchen production where visitors could watch treats being made, it became a beloved local landmark. The two paths converged in 2013 when Arway Confections acquired Long Grove Confectionery, saving the historic brand from closure. Today, the combined entity operates out of a state-of-the-art facility in Buffalo Grove, continuing to delight customers with a vast array of handcrafted chocolates, panned items, and gourmet snacks, honoring the legacy of both founding families.