Brooke’s Candy Refocuses, Will Close Terre Haute Shop

(Image of Terre Haute location's 2016 grand opening courtesy of Brooke's Candy Co.)

Dana-based Brooke’s Candy Co. says it will close its downtown Terre Haute retail shop June 1. The location opened less than two years ago and is the company’s second storefront. In a message on Facebook, Brooke’s Candy Co. says the decision will allow it to focus on the Brooke’s Naturals line, which includes cookie, brownie, cake and bread mixes.

The company calls it a tough decision, saying "it is time to focus on other areas of our business. We ask that you continue to follow our growth and stay abreast of new products coming soon and new locations where you can find our products at Brookescandy.com." It adds "we sincerely thank the community we have graciously been a part of for many years, and look forward to continuing to service the community and beyond for many years to come."

Owners Brooke Schmidt and Dana Vicars opened their first retail shop in 2007 in the Vermillion County home where they grew up. When Brooke moved back to Indiana in 2004, she began working toward launching the business. The company moved from the original home into a larger facility that opened in 2014. Since then, Brooke’s Candy Co. and Brooke’s Naturals have been carried by retailers throughout the state in partnership with the Indiana Grown initiative.

The company’s website says the focus on the retail brand, which includes all-natural, gluten and rice free baking mixes and treats, will help "grow the wholesale business and bring new products to market."