Hershey Contest Seeks Solution To Summertime Shipping Dilemma

HERSHEY, PA -- The shipping challenges chocolate poses during summer months and in warmer climates might be solved participants in a new contest. Hershey Co. is seeking ideas for the development of a lightweight, affordable cool shipping system that will keep chocolate close to the temperature at which it was packed for at least 48 hours.

The contest is being held through NineSigma, an open innovation company that connects companies with experts to solve technology problems. Hershey's challenge is designed to identify new systems or materials that will allow chocolate to be shipped to consumers in warm weather without the need for gel packs. The ultimate goal is to develop a system that would be inexpensive enough to use year round as part of the standard packaging for consumers' chocolate shipments.

Participants in the competition are vying for $25,000 in development funds and the opportunity to further collaborate with Hershey to develop proposed solutions. They must complete and submit the online submission form by Feb. 15.