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The real reason Pez comes with a dispenser
Pez, the iconic candy known for its colorful capsules and collectible dispensers, has a fascinating history dating back to the 1920s. What began as an alternative to smoking, invented by Eduard Haas III in Vienna, Austria, eventually transformed into a beloved candy and cherished collectible. But have you ever wondered why Pez candies come with a dispenser? In this article, we delve into the real reason behind the creation of Pez dispensers and how they became an integral part of the Pez experience.
The origins of PEZ candy
Before the 1940s, Pez candy as we know it today was virtually nonexistent. Pez candy was originally developed by Eduard Haas III as an alternative to smoking. In the 1920s, the original Pez candies were sold in tins to help people quit smoking. However, transforming Pez from a smoking substitute to a popular candy required a significant change in the company’s approach.
The need for a dispenser
While Pez candies were originally sold in cans and wrapped in paper, it soon became apparent that a more convenient and hygienic way to enjoy the candies was needed. Consumers wanted a way to easily grab a piece of candy with one hand or share it with a friend without contaminating the rest of the pack. Eating a Pez without a dispenser was akin to picking at a large stick of gum every time you wanted something to chew. Recognizing this need, Eduard Haas III enlisted the help of engineer Oscar Uxa to devise a solution.
The birth of the Pez dispenser
In 1949, Pez unveiled its first dispensers at the Vienna World’s Fair, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history. These innovative devices allowed people to effortlessly access a Pez treat with a simple flip of the dispenser. The introduction of the dispenser not only revolutionized the way people enjoyed Pez candies, but also addressed the issues of convenience and hygiene. Consumers no longer had to struggle with unwrapping individual pieces of candy or worry about contaminating the rest of the pack.
Development and popularity
Over the years, Pez dispensers evolved to become more than just a practical solution for candy consumption. In the 1950s, Pez began incorporating creative designs into its dispensers. The first innovative dispenser, known as the “Space Gun,” was introduced, followed by the iconic Popeye dispenser, which featured a licensed cartoon character. These changes marked the beginning of Pez dispensers as collectibles.
The Rise of Collectible Pez Dispensers
The introduction of licensed characters on Pez dispensers sparked a wave of enthusiasm among collectors. People began to appreciate these unique and whimsical items, and a vibrant market for collecting Pez dispensers emerged. The popularity of Pez dispensers reached such heights that it even inspired the creation of online platforms like eBay, where collectors could buy, sell, and trade their prized Pez dispensers. Today, there is a wide variety of Pez dispensers featuring various characters from pop culture, fandoms, and history, making them highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
Bottom line
The real reason Pez candies come with a dispenser can be traced back to the need for convenience and hygiene. What began as a solution to make Pez candies easier to consume eventually became a defining characteristic of the brand. Pez dispensers have not only revolutionized the way people enjoy these iconic candies, but have also become treasured collectibles that have captured the imagination of fans around the world. So the next time you reach for a Pez candy and flip open a dispenser, remember the fascinating history behind this delightful combination of candy and collectible.
FAQS
Why do Pez candies come with a dispenser?
Pez candies come with a dispenser to provide a convenient and hygienic way to enjoy the candies. The dispenser allows easy access to the candies with a simple flip, eliminating the need to unwrap individual pieces and preventing contamination of the rest of the pack.
Have Pez candies always been sold with dispensers?
No, Pez has not always been sold with dispensers. In fact, prior to the invention of the dispenser in 1949, Pez was sold in cans and wrapped in paper. The introduction of the dispenser revolutionized the way people consumed Pez candies and improved the overall experience.
What was the original purpose of Pez?
Pez was originally developed as an alternative to smoking. In the 1920s, Eduard Haas III invented Pez candies to help people quit smoking. The candies were sold in tins and were designed to provide a satisfying substitute for smokers trying to kick the habit.
How did the need for a dispenser arise?
The need for a dispenser was driven by consumer demand for a more convenient and hygienic way to enjoy Pez candies. Customers wanted a way to easily grab a candy with one hand or share with a friend without contaminating the rest of the pack. The dispenser solved this problem and made Pez candies easier to use.
Did Pez dispensers contribute to the rise of candy collecting?
Yes, Pez dispensers played a significant role in the rise of candy collecting. The introduction of licensed characters on Pez dispensers, such as Popeye, sparked enthusiasm among collectors. This led to the emergence of a vibrant market for collecting Pez dispensers, with collectors appreciating and treasuring these unique and whimsical items.
Are Pez dispensers considered valuable collectibles?
Yes, Pez dispensers are considered valuable collectibles. Certain rare and desirable Pez dispensers can fetch high prices on the collectibles market. The wide variety of dispensers featuring various characters from pop culture, fandom, and history adds to their appeal to collectors worldwide.