A Little History - Maron Fine Chocolates Since 1850 began when Conrad Maron, a Swiss candymaker, started out making candies and chocolates about the same time as Daniel Peter (credited for developing milk chocolate), Henri Nestle, Cailler, and Lindt (invented the conching process by which sweet centers are able to be enrobed in chocolate). These fellow countrymen worked in the same area of Switzerland experimenting with chocolate-making. Prior to 1850, candies were just sugar-based. Chocolate was a drink considered fit for kings, as it was extremely expensive and rare to find.

In 1848, Conrad ventured to America with his young wife and settled in Philadelphia to open what is now the oldest, independent retail candy business in America. His first shop opened on the block of North 4th Street in 1850 where he rented a small storefront from the Zion Lutheran Church; which is located on the corner of 4th and Cherry Streets.

The business was called A. Maron, after his wife Anna. The Maron's business steadily grew in volume and popularity, which allowed them to move from 4th Street to the prominent business district of 1612 Chestnut Street in the late 1880's. At this location is where the "A" was dropped from the name and the business became known as Maron Fine Chocolates.

Maron Chocolates Since 1850 moved to 107 South 18th Street in 1913. Situated in the heart of Center City, Philadelphia. NOW, after 91 Years we are located at 1734 Chestnut Street. Also nearby are the major shopping areas of Walnut and Market Streets. Maron Chocolates is still a small family run organization, which prides itself on its history and quality throughout the years and into tomorrow.

In 1987, Scoop DeVille was conceived, and the beginning of a new trend in Ice Cream and Frozen Yogurt eating was started. Come in and watch as you enjoy a delicious customized creation of yogurt or ice cream made right before your eyes. Enjoy "Apple Pie Ala' Mode", "Bananapapyapple", or maybe even some "Nutty Bananas Foster" or "My Cousin Tony's Spumoni". Read about us in The Daily Pennsylvanian article, and always remember our motto: "Life is short... eat dessert first!"

Now in 2003, we have expanded once more... Maron Specialty Products. Anything and everything you could ever imagine personalized with your company, club, university, or organization's logo. From T-shirts to beach towels, golf umbrellas to emergency roadside kits, sunglasses, post-it holders, crystal awards and the ever-popular glow-in-the-dark pens. Now, not only can you get the Best of Philly Chocolates and the Best of Philly Ice Cream in one location, you can also get all of your promotional goods as well. Check out our new online clothing/imprintables website: Maron Specialty Products - Online Clothing Division. Take a look at some of the other higher-end items we can get for you and your clients: LogoMark Portfolio

Please take a few minutes to browse through our site, and be sure to let us know what you think with your feedback. If you need further information, feel free to contact us with your questions.

Thank You, Matthew and Suzan Shore