Company History
Capital Candy Co, Inc. was founded in February, 1938 by George and Marion Pollard Burnes in Montpelier, VT, on a wing, a prayer and $700.00 in penny candy. It was truly a family enterprise. George sold and delivered the goods with the help of his three sons, Jim, George, and Alden. Marion kept the books and “the boys” in line. All this from the family home.
During World War II, rationing and the enlistment of all three sons created changes and challenges for the fledgling business. At the war's end, the loss of son George at Normandy forced further changes.
Jim with his wife, Liz, and Alden with his bride, Daphne joined George and Marion at the helm. The company expanded into new product lines and territories. Capital Candy became a “total wholesaler”.
Ten years later in 1955, Alden and Daphne sold their shares of the company to Jim and Liz to pursue other careers.
In 1972, the company moved from Montpelier to Barre, VT to a larger and more modernized facility. Jim and Liz were now joined by their children Robin (Burnes) and Richard Blanchard, and George and Prudy (Fisher) Burnes. With renewed energy and vitality, subsequent expansions added grocery, frozen and refrigerated goods.
The years 1992-93 saw further changes when George and Prudy Burnes became sole owners of the company. Today, Capital Candy is a familiar and respected name throughout New England and up state New York with over 130 employees.
We offer a complete line of products to our retail customers and a team of professionals ready to provide you with specialty programs, personalized merchandising and great customer service.
Capital Candy remains a “family operation” in the truest sense of the word. George Burnes, third generation (son of Jim, grandson of George) continues the proud family tradition. His son, Ethan, has recently joined the sales force, becoming the fourth generation to be part of the family business.
Throughout our history we have strived to continue a tradition of business that reflects the very best of the values and intentions that existed at Capital Candy's beginning. We recognize the hard work and sacrifices it takes to run a business — yours and ours — and appreciate the honesty and loyalty of those who made and make this effort each and every day. Therefore, we promise to do our best, and to do the best for you.