Ask a Clevelander about chocolate and expect one name to pop into the conversation: Malley’s. Here’s all you need to know about this beloved hometown favorite:
Cleveland’s confectionery champion
In 1935, Lakewood, Ohio resident Albert “Mike” Malley borrowed $500 to open a candy store at 13401 Madison Ave. The enterprise had modest beginnings – Mike and his wife Jo made candies in the basement and the family lived in the back rooms.
Fast forward to the present where Malley’s Chocolates is a chain of more than 20 candy stores and the darling of several generations of Northeast Ohio’s sweet-toothed crowd.
A legacy that would make Willy Wonka proud
What’s Malley’s secret to success? In addition to making irresistible sweet treats, Malley’s has fully embraced the spirit of fun in its stores and promotions.
The company’s third store, located in North Olmsted, was designed as an ice cream parlor and even includes a merry-go-round that has long been a hit among its young patrons. This attraction inspired Mike’s son, Bill, to add a new creation called the Carousel Sundae on the menu.
The fun and light-hearted publicity ideas have carried all the way through to third (and current) generation owner, Dan Malley. Contemporary Malley’s promotions include the ones that have prominent Cleveland personalities donning fuzzy bunny ears and an ongoing bumper sticker campaign. Stick a Malley’s CHOC sticker on your car and you get the chance to win $25 or $500 if “a special Malley’srepresentative” spots it.
Paying it forward
Malley’s has also found a great way to give back to the community that has helped it grow and succeed through more than eight decades.
In 1983, Adele Ryan Malley, wife of second-generation owner Bill Malley, founded the Malley’s School of Merchandising. The school teaches aspiring confectioners how to maximize sales through engaging store designs, high-impact packaging, and unique product presentation.
Must-try Malley’s favorites
If you can’tstop by any of their stores, you can always hop on the Malley’s website and start shopping for these sweet hits:
- The Gold Cup
Available in milk chocolate and dark chocolate variants, Malley’s Gold Cup assortment is the go-to option if you want to sample the store’s finest selection of chocolates. - Sweet Dreams
Conscious about your sugar intake? You can still enjoy the best of Malley’s chocolates through this exclusive sugar-free selection. - Chocolate-covered fruit
From boxes of cordial cherries available all year round to the seasonal hand-dipped giant strawberries, Malley’s chocolate-covered fruit make for excellent gifts – if you can stop yourself from snacking on them first. - Ohio Buckeyes
The candy store’s tribute to the state, the Ohio Buckeye is named after the official state tree. This signature milk chocolate confection features a peanut butter-filled center and cap. - Malley’s Famous Fudge Sauce
Bring home the signature Malley’s flavor and make an unforgettable hot fudge sundae in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Browse my blog to discover more local icons and must-visit destinations in Northeast Ohio.
For more information and updates about homes for sale in Cleveland, Ohio, call (440) 823 2448 or email michellemcquade(at)howardhanna(dotted)com .