Asher's Chocolate Co. Celebrates Over 130 Years in Pennsylvania's "Snack Belt"

Family-owned business has been a key part of the state's thriving snack industry for over a century.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Asher's Chocolate Co., a fifth-generation family-owned business based in Souderton, Pennsylvania, has been a major player in the state's thriving "snack belt" for over 130 years. The company produces hundreds of everyday and seasonal chocolate products, running production five days a week to keep up with demand from retailers. Long-time employee Mary Ellen "Mel" Ruskowski has worked at Asher's for over 40 years and reflects on how the iconic small business has evolved alongside the country's 250-year history.

Why it matters

As Pennsylvania continues to cement its reputation as the "snack belt of America," family-owned businesses like Asher's Chocolate Co. have played a crucial role in the state's thriving food manufacturing industry. Asher's longevity and continued success highlight the enduring appeal of small, community-based businesses that can adapt to changing consumer tastes over generations.

The details

Asher's Chocolate Co. was founded over 130 years ago in the Germantown neighborhood of Philadelphia. Today, the fifth generation of the Asher family runs the company's production facility in Souderton, Montgomery County. The company produces up to 800 seasonal chocolate products in addition to 500 everyday items, running production five days a week to keep up with demand from retailers. Long-time employee Mary Ellen "Mel" Ruskowski has worked at Asher's for over 40 years and feels a deep connection to the family-owned business.

  • Asher's Chocolate Co. was founded over 130 years ago in Philadelphia.
  • The company is now based in Souderton, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.

The players

Asher's Chocolate Co.

A family-owned chocolate company that has been operating in Pennsylvania for over 130 years, and is now run by the fifth generation of the Asher family.

Chester Asher

Part of the fifth generation of the Asher family and the director of marketing for Asher's Chocolate Co.

Mary Ellen "Mel" Ruskowski

A long-time employee of Asher's Chocolate Co. who has worked at the company for over 40 years.

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What they’re saying

“Pennsylvania is the snack belt of America, and we play a big part in that.”

— Chester Asher, Director of Marketing, Asher's Chocolate Co. (cbsnews.com)

“I feel like a part of the family. And everyone I work with — I've worked with people, some of them, 30, 40 years and that's a big thing you don't see anymore.”

— Mary Ellen "Mel" Ruskowski, Long-time Employee, Asher's Chocolate Co. (cbsnews.com)

What’s next

Asher's Chocolate Co. plans to continue expanding its production and product offerings to meet the growing demand for Pennsylvania-made snacks and confections.

The takeaway

Asher's Chocolate Co.'s over 130-year history in Pennsylvania's thriving "snack belt" highlights the enduring appeal of family-owned businesses that can adapt to changing consumer tastes over generations. The company's longevity and continued success are a testament to the power of community-based values and a commitment to quality craftsmanship.