A beloved family-owned candy shop in Austin, operating since 1885, plans to shut down all its locations permanently. Lammes Candies points to changing market dynamics and long-term viability issues as the key factors driving this decision.
Historic Legacy Comes to an End
After five generations, the iconic business, famous for its handmade confections, will cease operations. The flagship store at 5330 Airport Blvd. lacks a confirmed closing date, while the Round Rock outlet shut its doors on April 24.
Challenges in the Confectionery Market
Co-owner Lana K. Schmidt explained the tough choice in a statement: “This was not an easy decision. Lammes Candies has been more than a business—it has been a family legacy spanning generations. We are deeply grateful to our employees, customers, and community for their unwavering support over the past 141 years.”
Schmidt highlighted economic pressures: “The economy, you know, with the raw materials going up, labor is going, it’s just everything is escalating. There’s not a huge margin in confections, but the bottom line is we need to spend time with our grandchildren.”
She added: “I think we’ve built a legacy for the community. I mean we had the first neon sign. I mean there are a lot of firsts with Lammes in Austin. I know people are gonna miss this sweet treat, this tradition of theirs. And so we will miss the community.”
Signature Products and Operations
Lammes Candies gained fame for its Texas Chewy Pecan Pralines, launched in 1892 and still the top seller at around 2,000 pounds produced daily. Six years ago, the company ran seven stores across the Texas Hill Country.
Support for Staff and Customers
The business commits to aiding employees during the transition and will complete all existing orders as it winds down.
Community Reactions
Local residents voice deep disappointment. Hannah Burwell shared: “I moved here about five years ago. And I came in because I saw that it was one of the oldest places in Austin. And I was like, I want to get in on that.”
Another customer lamented: “Nooooo! The best Pralines, and the Longhorns! We frequently order Lammes to send as gifts to out-of-state family and friends. And of course we order a box for ourselves.”
