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Wholesale Sweets Online

Appleton & Sons is an established wholesale confectionery cash and carry situated in Bow, London. Established since 1945, Appletons is still a family run business that has become one of the UK's leading food cash and carries, specialising in wholesale sweets bulk candy & bulk chocolates. Trading from a large 35,000 square foot warehouse, our range of confectionery has surpassed well over 3,000 candy products and continues to grow on a weekly basis due to our strong buying power. With a knowledgeable team of staff who have a combined total of well over 300+ years within all aspects of the confectionery industry, we're confident that we can help you and your business. As always, if you have any questions or would like some advice, please don't hesitate to get in touch and a member of staff will be happy to help you.

Bulk Buy Sweets & Confectionery

We hope you enjoy browsing the Appletons website, we are one of the leading suppliers of wholesale confectionery to the public.

From occasions such as weddings, parties and mainstream events through to general wholesale supply requirements look no further.

As one of the cheapest wholesale sweet cash and carries, you can be sure we'll have the sweets you are looking for.

Our comprehensive sweet range also includes halal sweetsretro sweetswholesale fudgeretail sweet boxes and lots more.

Recently added products for those looking to buy sweets in bulk are: Nerds CandyParma Violets and the do or dare sweet game Bean Boozled.

Wholesale Sweets Cash & Carry

We ensure that our exciting product ranges grow with the latest confectionery trends so that you'll always be stocking the most popular, profitable wholesale candy items in your sweet shop. With a team of knowledgeable staff and buyers, why not come down to our cash and carry and allow us to show you around and answer any questions you may have. With over 300+ years of combined experience, we're always happy to give advice on which products to stock, the best and most successful way to market and promote your candy, as well as packaging and seasonal gift ideas. At Appletons, we ensure that our standard of wholesale confectionery is second to none which is why we only stock products from manufacturers such as HariboTavenersBarnetts, Barratt and Lutti.

As we are a trade only confectionery cash and carry, please note that we do have a minimum spend of £150 (ex. vat) per order. If you are a retailer already stocking confectionery or are looking to start, please create an account with us today and start shopping with the leading UK confectionery cash and cash with guaranteed low prices. With our everyday low prices, 365 days a year, your business will be sure to profit more with us are your trade partner. Please note that *FREE UK delivery applies to all orders within zones 1-3 that spend £500+ (ex. vat). All of our transport information can be found on our delivery page.

Our vast range of confectionery includes branded wholesale chocolate and sweets, wholesale pick and mix sweets, novelty sweets and seasonal confectionery for occasions such as Christmas, Valentine's Day, Easter and Halloween. Appleton's is one of the largest confectionery wholesalers within the UK and has been for many decades now. Renowned for our huge range of bulk pick and mix sweets, we stock one of the biggest range of bulk candies available in any UK cash and carry. Our aim is and always will be to help you and your business improve sales within confectionery and we have plenty of years under our belt doing this. It's not just UK sweets that we specialise in here at Appleton & Sons, we also stock a huge range of American sweets and candies that have been imported from the USA. Our extensive selection includes lucky charms, Wonka rainbow nerds, golden sponge twinkies and even A&W root beer! Wholesale American sweets have increased in popularity over the past 5 years, with year on year growth in almost triple figures! We are proud stockists of a wide range of American grocery items too with chocolate products and candy items, all from the most popular manufacturers including Mars, Reese's, Hershey and Wonka. One of our most popular sweeties that we currently stock are jelly belly bean boozled, the hit jelly bean candy from the USA that is becoming immensely popular here in the UK. We stock the entire range of Jelly Belly products including spinner gift boxes and other novelty candies.

Appleton sweets stocks one of the largest ranges of wholesale pick "n" mix ranges throughout the whole of the UK. This includes everything from mini love heart rolls to mint fondants that contains that old-fashioned, nostalgic middle filling that is loved by so many all over the world. With such an extensive range, we offer something for everyone, every business and every price point. Pick and mix bags often come in the traditional weight of 3kg, a weight which has been a talking point within the confectionery industry for many decades!

With plenty of holidays and gift seasons throughout the year, we always have a range of gift items that are available all year round. This includes products such as sumptuous chocolate boxes, jelly bean machines, cups and canisters as well as novelty Pez dispensers. The main gifting season is of course when Santa Claus comes to visit at Christmas. The first week of December is when the festive rush begins and sales start to increase. Year in, year out we always carry an extensive range of milk chocolate coins in nets, Turkish delight gift boxes and candy canes in lots of different traditional colours as well as flavours that have been sold all over the globe for many, many years. Our gift categories start to grow around 1-3 months before the actual holiday season to ensure that you and your business have plenty of time to prepare and get a plan in place on how to stock, merchandise and sell the wonderful sweeties that we have to offer.

How Different Societies or Cultures Celebrate with Sweets

How Different Societies or Cultures Celebrate with Sweets

Birthday parties, wedding feasts, baby showers, and cultural festivals—what do they all have in common? Well, they’re celebrations, of course, but they’re also prime places for sweets and chocolates to take centre stage.

Every society has its own way of making special celebrations, even sweeter ones, with confectionery. They’re part of the glue that keeps communities together and creates cherished memories of sweet treats from the past.

We’re exploring some of those traditions here, taking you on a culinary journey that explains the significance of sweet treats across India, the Middle East, Japan and more. Let’s dive in.

India: Diwali and Mithai

When autumn rolls around in India, the air buzzes with excitement for Diwali, the festival of lights. Stunning fireworks and the beautiful diyas, or oil lamps, are a given. But another underrated part of the festival is the selection of sweets and desserts that families and friends share as part of the celebration.

Mithai is the catch-all term for sweet treats, and India has grown sugarcane for thousands of years. Each sweet has its own story: take the laddoo, for example, a ball-shaped sweet made from gram flour, sugar, and ghee. Often infused with cardamom or saffron, it’s an ancient symbol of celebration.

Another popular dessert is barfi, a milk-based and dense sweet that’s often cut into diamond shapes or squares and topped with silver leaf. Kaju katli is another favourite made from cashew nuts and sugar; people of all ages love its velvety texture.

Every bite of mithai has a taste of India’s rich culture. These centuries-old traditions make Diwali one of the sweetest times of the year.

Middle East: Eid Desserts

There’s no doubt about it: Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting, is hard work. So when Eid rolls around, it’s time to celebrate with a lot of food. The result? There are thousands of delicious Eid dessert recipes for you to try.

One of the stars of Eid is baklava – layers of flaky pastry, nuts, and honey that’s a labour of love to make and a joy to share with the local community. Maamoul is another much-loved dessert - a tender, buttery biscuit filled with dates or nuts, with each shape signifying the filling inside. These are often made in large batches and shared with a crowd of friends and family.

Kunafa is another Eid staple with a delicious and unexpected contrast: a cheesy centre and crunchy base soaked in sweet syrup. And let’s not forget about qatayef, the sweet, stuffed pancakes synonymous with Ramadan and Eid. Whether filled with sweet cheese or nuts and then fried or baked, they're often drizzled with syrup or sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Like Diwali, Eid desserts are a cultural celebration that reflects joy and community. Each sweet has its own story to share. Are you looking forward to Eid celebrations soon? Appletons has everything you need to get the party started - find our Halal and sugar-free sweets online for your celebration.

Japan: Wagashi and Seasonal Festivals

In Japan, the changing seasons bring new scenery and a delightful variety of wagashi - traditional Japanese sweets that are beautifully decorated and lovingly prepared. Often served with green tea, these sweet treats are an art form in themselves.

Wagashi are closely tied to Japan's numerous seasonal festivals, each sweet reflecting the essence of the time of year. For example, you might find wagashi shaped like delicate sakura flowers during the cherry blossom season. Summer festivals like Tanabata bring citrus and mint-flavoured wagashi to the fore as a respite from Japan’s summer heat.

Autumn brings the rich, comforting flavours of sweet potatoes and chestnuts, often incorporated into wagashi that celebrate the harvest and the changing leaves. The Moon Viewing Festival is a special occasion in the Japanese calendar, marked with moon-shaped wagashi. As for winter, sweet red bean paste, wrapped in a layer of mochi to form a daifuku, offers some comfort in the colder months.

Wagashi are mini works of art celebrating the changing seasons and the deep connection with nature that is a part of Japan’s cultural identity. If you ever visit the country, look for these delightful sweets at street markets and shops.

Europe: Christmas Markets and Easter

In Europe, many city squares are transformed into bustling Christmas markets every winter, with millions of visitors yearly. With a steaming cup of mulled wine in hand, tourists are greeted with Stollen, a rich and hearty German Christmas bread filled with dried fruits, nuts and sweet spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Italian Panettone is another mainstay of any Christmas market. These tall, dome-shaped cakes are stuffed with candied fruits, and raisins encased in a light sponge. Gingerbread biscuits are another popular sweet treat, often decorated with icing or marzipan.

As Easter approaches, Europe's sweet traditions take on a new life. In Spain, families are busy making Torrijas, a type of bread soaked in milk or wine, fried and then dipped in sugar or honey.

In the UK, Easter wouldn’t be complete without a hot cross bun, lightly spiced and studded with currants or raisins, marked with a cross on top. Served warm with lashings of butter, these simple buns are the ultimate symbol of the season in the UK. We wouldn’t say no to a cheeky chocolate Easter egg or two, either.

Christmas and Easter are two major holidays in Europe, so it’s no wonder there are so many delicious treats to match the occasion. Each with their own story and significance, they invite us to take part in the festivities and our shared culture.

Wrapping Up

From India's vibrant streets to Japan's serene beauty, each culture brings its unique flavour to the table. Every society has its way of celebrating through sweets and desserts, with the community bringing us all together to create fond memories over plates and bowls of confectionery.


As we embrace traditions, let's remember those seeking healthier alternatives. Our range of sugar-free sweets guarantees everyone can join in the fun without missing a beat. Check out our full online range today.
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Must-Visit Destinations for Confectionery Enthusiasts

Must-Visit Destinations for Confectionery Enthusiasts

Sure, chocolate and sweets are readily available at the shop counter or supermarket. But have you ever wondered where some of the world’s best confectionery lives, and if you can sample some for yourself?

Maybe you’ve been a casual sweets and chocolates lover who’s ready to kick things up a notch. Or perhaps you’ve already been on a couple of chocolate pilgrimages and are looking for your next trip. We’ve got a list of confectionery must-haves for your travel map, from the UK to Europe and further afield.

Get ready to dive into a world of sweet treats on tap with our complete guide to must-have destinations for sweets and chocolate lovers. Let’s get started.

Cadbury World, Birmingham

We’re starting off with one attraction that’s closer to home - the Black Country is home to the beloved UK chocolate’s brand spiritual home, Cadbury World. It’s only natural that every visitor is treated to a tour of the chocolate factory, complete with delicious tastings along the way.

Kids will love dining with Cadbury characters in the Cadbury World cafe, 4D chocolate adventures, and the Cadabra ride. There’s plenty of fun for adults, too, including a trip down memory lane with Cadbury’s Advertising Avenue and Victorian street recreations, washed down with a delightful afternoon tea. Cadbury World is like a chocolatey mecca for any confectionary lover based in the UK.

The Oldest Sweet Shop in the World, Pateley Bridge

Nestled in the Yorkshire Dales lies the Oldest Sweet Shop in the World, which has been trading since 1827. This little shop from a bygone era still sells traditional sweets and chocolates from decades past, including aniseed balls, pear drops, and blackjacks. You won’t find wholesale sweets here - everything is made in batches for the day’s visitors.

Aside from being located in an idyllic part of the country, the Oldest Sweet Shop in the World has its own charm by handcrafting sweets and chocolates using traditional methods and tools. If you’re in the area, it’s a shop that’s well worth a visit for a delicious sweet treat.

Zurich, Switzerland

If you're travelling to Europe, any chocolate lover should make a stop in Zurich. The Swiss city is home to the Lindt Home of Chocolate, a chocolate museum, and a giant Lindt chocolate shop where you can find every Lindt flavour under the sun. You can even take chocolate-making courses, which are open to all ages.

Aside from the world-famous brand, there are plenty of delectable chocolate shops in Zurich with world-class confectionaries to sample. To make the most of your visit, indulge in a chocolate walking tour or stop at a café for Swiss hot chocolate.

Brussels, Belgium

Have you ever heard of Belgian chocolate, a candy type synonymous with quality and taste? Then head over to Brussels, a hub for the country’s chocolate production. With a richer cocoa percentage and made with cocoa butter, Belgian chocolate is a cut above the rest.

Home to the famous chocolate companies Godiva, Leonidas and Neuhaus, the inventor of the Belgian praline, there’s plenty to see and do in this capital to keep your stomach full and your heart happy.

Paris, France

We couldn’t miss the fine dining capital of the world off from the list. Paris is home to some of the most indulgent confectionary shops in the world, such as Angelina’s hot chocolate shop, La Maison du Chocolat and Pralus.

You can find patisserie and boulangerie shops selling high-quality chocolates and sweets across Paris - and of course, enjoying a pain au chocolat is an absolute must when roaming the streets of the romantic city.

Hershey, Pennsylvania

Did you know that the famous US chocolate brand is named after a town? That’s right—Hershey, Pennsylvania, is home to Hershey HQ and the H.B. Reese Candy Company.

Die-hard Hershey fans can visit the Hersheypark, complete with dining, entertainment, theme park rides and accommodation for the whole family. We’d say the highlights are Hershey’s Chocolatetown, complete with its own ice cream parlour and restaurant, and Hershey’s Chocolate World, where families can explore the chocolate factory and make their own candy bars.

Penny Candy Lane, Japan

Found in Kawagoe City, Penny Candy Lane has a rich history of sweets making, where over 20 shops still survive today. Each shop specialises in its own unique confectionary, such as the Tamariki Confectionary Shop’s hard candies or the Matsuriku Confectionery Shop’s sweets made with brown sugar.

If you visit in April, you might catch the yearly festival in Penny Candy Alley with traditional Japanese decorations and games. Look out for the eight animal statues dotted throughout the area as you feast on the sweets - some are harder to find than others.

Oaxaca, Mexico

Mexico is one of the biggest chocolate exporters in the world. In the city of Oaxaca, chocolate is embedded in everyday life for its residents after establishing itself on the ancient trading route as a centre for all things chocolate.

Hot chocolate is a big tradition in Oaxaca, traditionally served with milk, cinnamon, and almonds. Chocolate is also one of the key ingredients for mole, a thick and savoury sauce used in poultry and meat dishes. For those with less adventurous tastes, you’ll find more chocolate shops in the city than you can shake a stick at.

Final thoughts

If you’re feeling adventurous enough to go out and find delicious sweets and chocolate, there are many places to enjoy them worldwide. The UK is home to two of the world’s iconic confectionery locations, making them great days out for the family to enjoy.

Fancy something a little further afield? Not to worry. From the meandering streets of Japan to the vibrant Mexican markets, the best confectionary is out there—get your passport ready now.

If you’re after high-quality sweets and chocolate on your doorstep, Appleton Sweets is here to help. Wholesale confectionary is our speciality, and we have everything you need for your business or event to go off without a hitch. Check out our website today for our full range.

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Upcycling Jars for Creative Candy Storage Solutions

Upcycling Jars for Creative Candy Storage Solutions

These days, sustainability isn’t just optional - it’s an absolute must. Finding creative ways to repurpose old items lying around your home is both a challenge and a meaningful contribution towards saving the planet.

Old jars are one of the most versatile storage containers - from makeshift pen pots to fun craft projects with the kids, they can do it all. But have you ever considered using them for storing your favourite sweets and chocolates?

Upcycling jars taps into the growing trend of eco-friendly living and adds a personal touch to how we organise and display treats - a double win. We’re jumping into how these everyday items can be transformed into creative sweets storage solutions - keep reading.

The Appeal of Upcycling Jars for Candy Storage

Upcycling jars for candy storage is a perfect example of making a significant impact with seemingly small actions. Reducing waste, infusing a dose of personality into your space and flexing your creative muscles? All good in our book.

Every repurposed jar is a step towards less waste ending up in landfills. Upcycling everyday items like jars is a simple yet effective way to introduce more sustainable practices into our daily lives.

Upcycled jars also have the bonus that they’re a completely blank canvas waiting for your masterpiece. You can choose every design aspect to blend seamlessly into your home decor or stand out as a bold statement piece.

Also, let’s face it: upcycling stuff that will otherwise be chucked out is a great way to save money. Instead of buying new containers, you can repurpose old jars without compromising quality or visual appeal. Not to mention, there’s a certain satisfaction in giving new life to something you already had - especially when it helps to save some pennies.

Where to Find Beautiful Jars for Upcycling

Are you feeling particularly uninspired by your jam jar selection, or do you want something a bit different from the norm? Glass jars come in all shapes and sizes, and you can find some real gems for your candy storage vision if you know where to look. Here are some ideas to get you started.

Charity Shops

These gems are hotspots for upcycling enthusiasts. Charity shops often have an eclectic mix of jars - from vintage finds to nearly new ones - all at bargain prices. You’re also doing good with every purchase supporting a good cause.

Car Boot Sales

A haven for the bargain hunter, car boot sales are ideal for discovering unique jars at low prices. There’s no telling what might be on offer at any car boot sale, but if you go to more established ones at bigger towns and cities, you can find dedicated vendors and sellers with glassware goods.

Online Marketplaces

Want to do some bargain hunting from the comfort of your home? Sites like eBay, Etsy, and Facebook Marketplace are treasure troves for jar hunters, like ex-display wholesale sweet jars. They have the convenience of keyword searches, so you can find exactly what you’re after.

Choosing the Right Jars for the Job

Choosing the perfect jar is essential for an upcycling candy storage project. But it’s not just about the look - a good storage container needs to keep the sweets and chocolates fresh.

Consider where you’ll display the candy storage - you want jars that fit nicely on your shelves or countertops. Size matters when you think about what sweet treats you plan to store. Smaller jars are perfect for delicate items like truffles or hard candies, while larger ones accommodate cookies, bars, or a mix of assorted goodies. 

The shape of the jar can also influence its appearance and functionality. Wide-mouth jars are ideal for easy access, especially if you're reaching in with a scoop or fingers. Tall and narrow jars look elegant but might restrict access when the snack cravings sneak up on you.

Freshness is key when storing candies and chocolates. Look for jars with tight-sealing lids, like screw-top jars or rubber gaskets and clamps. These are excellent choices to keep air out and freshness locked in.

Once you’ve selected your jars, thoroughly clean them to remove any residues or odours. Sticky labels come off easily with some warm, soapy water. For extra care, sterilise the jars by boiling them or using a dishwasher with a high-heat cycle.

Creative Ideas for Upcycling Jars into Candy Containers

It’s time to unleash your creativity. With a touch of imagination and some simple tools, you can make a bespoke storage solution for your sweet treats. Here are some creative ideas to inspire your upcycling project.

Painting and Finishing

Give your jars a fresh look with paint. Acrylics work well for glass and come in every colour under the sun for a completely personalised finish. For a shabby chic look, use distressed paint techniques or chalk paint for a quirky, matte finish. But most importantly, don’t forget to add a clear sealing paint layer to protect your hard work.

Adding Knobs and Handles

For a practical and decorative touch, add knobs or handles to the lids of your jars. This makes them easier to open and adds a unique decorative element. Choose from vintage knobs you’ve scoured the internet for, colourful ceramic pieces, or even upcycled items for handles that double as conversation starters and beautiful art pieces.

Use Fabrics

One of the simplest ways to upcycle jars is by wrapping them in ribbon, twine or fabric to give them a kitsch, homemade feel. Use these materials to create bows, wrap the neck of the jar, or cover the lid according to what aesthetic you’re after.

Add Labels

Labels aren’t just practical - they can be decorative, too.  Use chalkboard labels for a rustic, reusable option that lets you change the contents as needed. Hand-painted labels or printed designs are other options that give a polished look.

Final Thoughts

Embracing upcycled jars for candy storage is a creative journey that beautifies your space and showcases your commitment to the environment. When you’re ready to restock, Appleton’s sweet treats are ready to help get the job done.
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