Russell Stover Sets Largest Box Of Chocolates World Record On Its 100th Anniversary

You know how it goes with a box of chocolates. You identify the flavors you most desire, maybe even ranking them in the order that you plan to eat them, and if all goes well, you get to have those first few favorites all to yourself. But,  inevitably, someone comes along and sees the box and asks if they can have one. You allow them to go right ahead, and where does that generosity get you? Down one raspberry crème.

That wouldn't be a problem, though, if you were in possession of chocolatier Russell Stover's latest batch of confections. To mark its 100th anniversary, the company has put together what has been verified by the Guinness Book of World Records to be the world's largest box of chocolates, according to its recent press release. The 30 feet 4.5 inches wide by 15 feet 5 inches tall replica of its classic assortment box — which empty weighs well over two tons — is filled with over 5,000 pounds of jumbo chocolate candies, weighing between 11 and 38 pounds each. With a loaded weight of 5,616 pounds, Russell Stover's box is double the size and over 1,800 pounds heavier than the previous record holder, U.K. sweets producer Thornton's.

The gigantic box of chocolates came together at Kansas City's Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts on April 17th during Russell Stover's "Sweet Centennial Celebration" and was unveiled before an audience of 300. After the debut of the world record, the city's skyline was lit in the brand's signature copper color marking a declaration by Mayor Quinton Lucas that April 17 was "Russell Stover Sweet Centennial Day."

In the press release, Niccolo Starace commented on the significance of the oversized promotion in light of the company's momentous milestone. "We wanted to do something really special to celebrate our 100th anniversary, and what could be more special than breaking a Guinness World Records title? ... We're really proud to add this major milestone to our company's rich history."

Additionally, Russell Stover has an assortment of other events and activities centered on the yearlong celebration of the company's anniversary. Those include a $100,000 sweepstakes giveaway, a nationwide tour bringing chocolate tastings and more from coast-to-coast, a charity fundraising drive benefiting Feed The Children, and special Sweet Centennial-themed chocolates and merchandise.