During uncertain economic times, there are still some things that today's consumers just are not willing to give upsuch as chocolate. But as with eating out and clothing purchases, they are trading down. That is simply fine with Hershey, America's best-known chocolate maker. For years, riding the good times, premium chocolates grew faster than lower-priced confectionery products.Slow to jump on the premium bandwagon, Hershey lost market share to Mars Inc.'s Dove line. But as consumer economy increased during the Great Recession, the sales of premium chocolate brands went flat. However, Hershey's sales, profits, and stock price increased as many consumers passed up higher-end goods in favor of Hershey's chocolate bars, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, and Kit Kat wafers. Hershey seized the opportunity of this trend by running new ads that stressed their value. It also cut costs by paring back the varieties of products such as Hershey's Kisses. As supermarkets reduced the shelf space they allocated to premium chocolates, Hershey cashed in as consumers looked to affordable Hershey favorites to satisfy their desires.

After all, even on a tight budget, people need to indulge at least a little.

1 Is Hershey's rebirth based on a want or a need?

2 Evaluate the shift in chocolate sales based on benefits and costs that customers perceive.

3 What other products are harmed or helped by the new consumer economy?