Have you ever wondered where your favourite pick & mix comes from and all those nostalgic treats you enjoyed as a kid?

It’s probably from a Watford sweet wholesaler, part of a nationwide group, celebrating its 60th birthday this year.

Hancocks on Colonial Way supplies sweets to independent retailers, online confectionery businesses and leisure outlets Watford, the South East and around the globe.

The depot has been in the city for 18 years supplying confectionery treats, and this year is playing a part in the 60th anniversary of Hancocks.

The company was set up in the Midlands in 1962 by Ray Hancocks and his wife Elizabeth who sold sweets wholesale from their small sweet shop.

Now it has 14 depots across the UK, an e-commerce site and the option for customers to click and collect.

Customers include local independent retailers, online businesses including sweet shops and bakers and leisure outlets from around London and surrounding areas.

The depot also exports across the globe to countries including the Bahamas, Malta, Hong Kong, Dubai, Portugal, Germany, Nigeria and many more.

The Watford store is looked after by area manager Ian Hayes. It opened its doors in 2005 and is one of the highest turnover depots despite being one of the smallest.

Customers include former Apprentice winner Sarah Lynn and her business Sweets in the City, Kingdom of Sweets and traditional confectionery retailer, Mr Simms.

Hancocks stocks major UK brands, an unrivalled range of pick and mix and confectionery from around the globe including treats from the US.

Area manager for the Watford depot, Ian Hayes, said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating the 60th anniversary of Hancocks and look forward to welcoming our customers and suppliers into the store.

“For any business to reach such an anniversary is a real milestone, even more so after the last two years and the changes we’ve all had to make to adapt to the challenges of the pandemic.

“We’ve seen our customer base evolve during that period. There’s been an influx of different businesses adding on confectionery for online sales and delivery options.

“More recently, our customers have told us that they’re looking for value for money and are passing that saving on to their customers. Our unrivalled range means we’re able to offer great value and top quality products.”

Ian added: “For our customers at the Watford store, we’ll have loads of great deals during our celebrations with huge savings as well to say thanks for their continued support. They’ll also have the chance to meet the brands and win some amazing prizes.”

Customer Leigh Hayter from Dotty’s Sweets in Stanmore is a regular Hancocks shopper. Leigh said: “Shopping in Hancocks is a wonderful experience, The depot is well organised, the staff friendly and nothing is too much effort.”