Sweet lovers savour brands

People in Porirua can now the Kool-Aid’’ – literally.

United Sweets, which sells American confectionery and other food products, opened at North City shopping centre on April 1 and it has already been hailed a success by its franchise manager Garrick Smart.

‘‘It’s been crazy. We’ve had so many customers already. We couldn’t have asked for a better outcome,’’ he said.

The kiosk shop stocks more than 200 types of international candy, snacks, drinks and novelty foods.

Mr Smart said more than 500 packets of gourmet Jelly Belly beans were sold on the first morning the shop was open.

‘‘We couldn’t believe it. They’ve been so popular’’

Other popular treats have been Reese’s peanut butter, Jack Daniel’s

‘‘drink sauces, Angry Bird fruit jellies, Milk Duds and Pop Tarts.

Mr Smart said the store ‘‘ caters for all tastes and people of all ages’’.

‘‘ We’ve had such a variety of customers.’’

He said the highlight of his week had been seeing people’s reactions.

‘‘ It’s been quite entertaining watching peoples’ faces light up when they see the store.’’

Many of the products are new to Kiwis’ tastebuds but have long been a part of popular culture.

Junior Mints were made famous in a Seinfeld episode, ‘‘drinking the Kool-Aid’’ has referred to mindless acceptance since the 1978 Jonestown Massacre, while Twinkies have featured in numerous movies.

The store will likely be managed by its present owners for about four months before it is sold and another franchise is opened elsewhere.