The Crilly’s sweets journey started in the 1960’s, when company Director Peter Crilly emigrated from Ireland to England. Leaving the shores of Co Down with an interest in sweets, Peter began working at the Mars factory in Slough. After gaining experience making chocolate, Peter moved to Blackpool to experience the world of sweets and Rock.
During the 1970’s it was time to move home. After all the experience gained in the sweet, candy and chocolate industry ‘Crilly’s Sweets’ was established in 1974, in Newry, Co Down.
“The company started with just two people, my wife and me. soon we employed my brother, then my younger brother. At that stage the troubles were taking place, it was a difficult time for business, but we all had a determination to succeed. Basically that mean’t working as sweet maker, van driver, cleaner, packer-everything” said Peter