History

Marc Johnstone and Kristene Steed

The story of Rhéo Thompson Candies, Ltd. began in 1969 when Rhéo Thompson apprenticed in the production of candy at Olin Brown Candies, Stratford. Later, relying essentially on used equipment — only the bare necessities such as a natural gas stove, a copper kettle and a thermometer — Rheo began his own candy making facility. In those early days, the candy was made in the evening and sold on Saturday mornings at the Stratford's Farmer's Market, in a booth rented for 50 cents. Rhéo Thompson Candies Limited was born!

As demand increased, further production space was needed, and a building on Brunswick St. was leased. The new location served Rhéo Thompson Candies well as the business flourished. In 1971, Rhéo Thompson Candies introduced a mouth-watering mint smoothie, which became their specialty, for which they became known world wide.

In 1996, Rhéo Thompson Candies moved one block north to the 55 Albert Street premises where they remain to this day. This move allowed for candy production and retail to take place under one roof. The charm of the store is a result of its solid cherry wood showcases, its seasonal display tables, its creative packaging, and the intoxicating aroma of chocolate when you first set foot inside the front door.

The use of premium, wholesome ingredients (such as whipping cream, butter, the finest flavours and first-rate chocolate) used in our handmade confections, regular maintenance of apparatus, and general cleanliness, continues to preserve the distinction of Rhéo Thompson's Candies.

Rhéo and Sally Thompson worked exceptionally hard over the years to brand their confection while concentrating on the company adage "We make but one thing, and we do that well, CANDY." Continued success, however, requires constant adaptation to customer needs and preferences. This is a factual reality of which Kristene Steed and Marc Johnstone, the current owners of Rhéo Thompson Candies Limited, are quite aware.

A Stratford native and daughter of Elaine and Gordon Steed, Kristene 'cut her teeth' in the retail world during her student years at Bradshaws, Stratford. She has a flare for design and has brought her management, marketing, and merchandising expertise into the world of chocolatiers. Marc Johnstone grew up within the context of a Family Bakery business in Parkhill, ON. He personifies a warm and genuine enthusiasm for people, and was trained well by his baker grandfather to provide customer service beyond compare. Both Kristene and Marc have continued the standard of unparalleled confections renown throughout North America.

The legacy of Rhéo Thompson Candies lives on in the contented smiles of those who fancy a savory treat!