REVERE, Mass. (AP) -- The 163-year-old candy company that makes Necco Wafers, the Clark Bar and Sweetheart Conversation Hearts has hired an investment banker to find a strategic partner or explore a possible sale.
The New England Confectionary Co. said earlier this week that while it can continue operating independently, finding a partner would be "the appropriate next step" to take advantage of growth and distribution opportunities.
Necco said in a statement Tuesday that it has retained the New York-based investment banking firm Sawaya Segalas & Co.
The Revere-based company, which was taken private in 2007, said production for the holiday season and Valentine's Day would not be affected as it explores its options.
