The candy aisle is entering 2026 with a clear direction: gummies are no longer just a side category — they’re the main event. Rising chocolate costs, viral international sweets, and shifting consumer tastes have pushed brands to rethink what candy can be. And now, Hershey has stepped into the spotlight with a bold new launch that could define the year ahead.
Hershey’s latest release doesn’t just add another gummy to the shelf. It introduces a completely new candy format that blends crunch, chew, sour, and playfulness in one bag. Early reactions suggest this might be one of the most talked-about candy launches of 2026.
Hershey’s New Candy Launch 2026 – Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Product name | Shaq-A-Licious Slams |
| Brand | The Hershey Company |
| Candy type | Multi-texture gummy & candy mix |
| Flavor profiles | Watermelon, strawberry, orange, sour mango |
| Texture | Crunchy candy shell + chewy gummy |
| Shape design | Candy balls and gummy rings |
| Collaboration | Shaquille O’Neal |
| Launch timing | January 2026 |
| Availability | Nationwide retailers + online |
Why Gummies Are Dominating Candy Right Now
The candy industry has been quietly undergoing a shift. While chocolate remains iconic, its rising production costs and supply challenges have opened the door for innovation elsewhere. Gummies, in particular, have become the fastest-growing segment.
Over the past few years, consumers have embraced filled gummies, layered textures, and unexpected flavor combinations. Viral hits like gummy clusters and international imports have proven that shoppers want more than a single texture or basic fruit flavor. They want variety, surprise, and fun — all in one bite.
Hershey’s new launch fits squarely into this trend, but with a twist that sets it apart from anything currently on shelves.
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Inside Hershey’s Shaq-A-Licious Slams
Shaq-A-Licious Slams are unlike traditional gummies. Each bag includes two distinct candy types designed to be eaten together or separately.
One component features crunchy, candy-coated balls with a chewy gummy center. These come in watermelon, strawberry, and orange flavors and deliver a texture combination that immediately brings gummy clusters to mind.
The second component consists of chewy, sour mango rings. The contrast between sweet, crunchy candy and sour gummy rings adds a playful element that encourages mixing and matching.
The design isn’t accidental. The candy balls resemble basketballs, while the rings are meant to mimic hoops — a nod to Shaquille O’Neal’s legendary career and larger-than-life personality.
How This Candy Stands Out From Recent Gummy Hits
While many recent gummy launches focus on one standout texture or flavor, Shaq-A-Licious Slams aim to do more. They combine:
- Crunchy and chewy textures in one bag
- Sweet fruit flavors balanced by sour elements
- Interactive eating rather than a single uniform candy
Candy analysts note that this kind of variety appeals strongly to younger consumers and social-media-driven shoppers. “People want candy that feels like an experience,” said a confectionery trend consultant familiar with the market. “Multi-texture candies keep people engaged longer.”
That engagement factor could be key to Slams’ success.
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The Shaquille O’Neal Effect
This launch builds on an existing partnership between Hershey and Shaquille O’Neal. Previous Shaq-A-Licious XL Gummies — including oversized gummy shapes and sneaker-inspired designs — helped establish the brand’s playful, bold identity.
With Slams, Hershey takes the collaboration further. The candy reflects Shaq’s public persona: energetic, fun, and unapologetically big. According to Hershey, the product celebrates his love of slam dunks, hoops, and what the company calls “big kid energy.”
Brand experts say celebrity collaborations work best when the product aligns naturally with the personality behind it. In this case, the oversized concept, sports theme, and playful design feel authentic rather than forced.
Why Fans Are Comparing It to Gummy Clusters
One reason Shaq-A-Licious Slams are already generating buzz is the comparison to Nerds Gummy Clusters — one of the most successful candy launches of recent years.
The similarity lies in the crunchy candy exterior paired with a chewy gummy center. That texture combination has proven extremely popular, and Slams build on it by adding a second candy style in the same bag.
For fans of gummy clusters, Slams offer familiarity with added variety. For those who haven’t embraced the cluster trend yet, the sour mango rings provide a different entry point.
Where and How to Buy Hershey’s New Candy
Shaq-A-Licious Slams are rolling out to major retailers nationwide and are also available online through Hershey’s official channels. Availability may vary by location during the initial launch period, as early demand appears strong.
Hershey has confirmed that Slams are part of its 2026 product lineup rather than a limited seasonal release, though exact restocking schedules depend on retailer demand.
For official product details and updates, shoppers can check:
- The Hershey Company website
- Major national retailer listings carrying Hershey products
What This Launch Says About Candy in 2026
Hershey’s newest candy highlights several trends likely to shape the industry this year:
- Continued dominance of gummies over traditional chocolate
- Demand for mixed textures and interactive eating
- Strong influence of pop culture and celebrity branding
- Preference for candies that feel new, not just new flavors
As competition intensifies, brands that combine innovation with familiarity are best positioned to win consumer loyalty.
Final Thoughts
With Shaq-A-Licious Slams, Hershey isn’t just releasing another candy — it’s signaling where the future of sweets is headed. By blending crunch, chew, sour, and playful design, the company has created a product that feels both familiar and fresh.
It’s too early to crown a candy of the year, but early signs suggest Shaq-A-Licious Slams will be a serious contender. For fans of modern gummies and anyone looking for something new in the candy aisle, this launch is one to watch closely in 2026.
FAQs
What are Shaq-A-Licious Slams?
They are a new Hershey candy combining crunchy candy-coated gummy balls and sour mango gummy rings in one bag.
How are they different from other gummies?
They offer multiple textures and flavors in a single package, creating a more interactive candy experience.
Are they similar to gummy clusters?
Yes, the crunchy-outside, chewy-inside candy balls are similar, but Slams add a second sour gummy element.
Where can I buy them?
They are available at major retailers nationwide and through Hershey’s official online platforms.
Hello! I’m Kaylani , a professional content writer with a knack for breathing life into words. I have been providing high-quality, research-driven content in Sectors like Technology & Personal Finance . With a background in Finance Tech Management , I specialize in turning complex information into engaging content that resonates with a wide.