Comparison of Hershey and Tootsie Roll chocolate brands

Hershey or Tootsie Roll

In the field of marketing, the customer is king. Understanding their preferences is the key to business success. In a recent survey, the question of whether customers preferred Hershey Bars or Tootsie Rolls was asked. The hypothesis of the study suggested that they would prefer Hershey bars, as Tootsie Rolls would stick to their teeth. The study sample consisted of a mixed group of 50 participants. They were asked which they preferred and the reasons for their preferences. It was found that the hypothesis held true, but not for the reasons that were first suspected. It was found that participants preferred Hershey Bars because of their versatility. Hershey bars can be added to coffee, hot chocolate, cookies, s'mores, and other delectable treats.

Introduction

In today's world, market research drives business decisions. Understanding consumer preferences and wishes is the key to achieving continued sales growth. The candy industry is highly competitive. Hershey and Tootsie Roll have been rivals for many years. Consumers are split as to which of these treats they prefer. This research will examine the perplexing question of which of these two candy choices people prefer. It will also examine the reasons for their choice.

Background of Problem

Tootsie Roll Industries began its operations in 1896, manufacturing and marketing one of the world's most popular candy brands (Tootsie Roll Industries, 2010). Hershey had its beginnings over 10 years later, but soon rose above Tootsie Roll in Sales to become one of the biggest candy giants in the world (Hershey Corporation, 2009). Now the two are head-to-head rivals. In order to increase sales it is important to understand where each of these giants stand in terms of competition.

Hypothesis and Research Questions

This study will examine the research hypothesis, "Hershey will be the preferred favorite of study participants over Tootsie Roll." In order to add depth to this basic information, the research study will also examine the research question, "What is the reason for participants' choice?" This hypothesis, paired with this research question will allow the research to understand which is the favorite and why. It is suspected that people will prefer Hershey's over Tootsie Roll because Tootsie Rolls stick to the respondent's teeth.

Nature of the Data Set

The data set will be derived from a random sampling of people as they pass by on a busy street corner. The researcher will observe whether they are male of female. No other demographic data will be gathered. All of the respondents are potential customers, regardless of demographic data.

Analysis and Methodology

The researcher will stand on a busy street corner and approach passers by. The question, "Which do you prefer Hershey or Tootsie Roll?" will be asked. This will be followed by the question "Could you tell me why?" Their responses will be recorded on a data sheet by the researcher. Responses will be entirely voluntary.

This is a quantitative study. Data will be analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques. The hypothesis will be considered to hold true at a p value of .05. This technique will be used for the primary research question of which respondents prefer. The research question of "why" will be recorded in short phrases on the data sheet. The number of similar responses will be tallied and analyzed using frequency distribution.

Conclusions and Summary