Spangles Sweets

Spangles was a brand of boiled sweets manufactured by Mars Ltd in the United Kingdom from 1950 to the early 1980s. They were sold in a paper packet with individual sweets originally unwrapped but later cellophane wrapped. They were distinguished by their shape which was a rounded square with a circular depression on each face.

Spangles sweets wrapped

The regular Spangles packet (labelled simply "Spangles") contained a variety of translucent, fruit-flavoured sweets: strawberry, blackcurrant, orange, pineapple, lemon and lime and cola. Originally the sweets were not individually wrapped, but later a waxed paper, and eventually a cellophane wrapper was used. The tube was striped, a bright orange-red colour alternating with silver. It bore the word "Spangles" in large letters. In the 1970s, a distinctive, seventies-style font was used.

Over the production period many different, single flavour varieties were introduced including Acid Drop, Barley Sugar, Blackcurrant, Liquorice, Peppermint, Spearmint and Tangerine. A white mint Spangle, complete with hole, was produced as a competitor to the Polo mint.

Spangles, which were discontinued in the mid 80s, came out as the number one choice for nearly a fifth of those asked which sweets they would most like to make a come back.

Spangles sweets are one of Britain’s most beloved retro candies, instantly recognisable for their vibrant colours, distinctive square shape, and fruity flavours. Although no longer a permanent fixture on shop shelves, Spangles remain a cherished part of British confectionery history and continue to spark nostalgia among sweet lovers of all ages.

In this article, we explore the history of Spangles sweets, why they became so popular, and share some fun facts that make these classic candies truly unforgettable.

What Were Spangles Sweets?

Spangles were small, hard, square-shaped sweets known for their bold colours and long-lasting fruity taste. Unlike many round boiled sweets of the time, Spangles stood out with their unique geometric design, making them instantly recognisable in sweet jars and packets across the UK.

They were marketed as modern, fun, and slightly futuristic, perfectly matching the optimistic spirit of post-war Britain.

The History of Spangles Sweets

Spangles were first introduced in 1950 by Mars Limited, one of the UK’s most influential confectionery manufacturers. Their launch came at a time when Britain was emerging from rationing, and colourful sweets symbolised a return to enjoyment and indulgence.

Originally sold in paper bags and later in iconic cardboard boxes, Spangles quickly gained popularity with children and adults alike. Over the decades, several flavour varieties were released, keeping the brand fresh and exciting.

Some notable Spangles flavour ranges included:

  • Original Fruit Spangles

  • Old English Spangles

  • Lemon Lime Spangles

  • Mint Spangles

  • Tropical Spangles

Despite their popularity, Spangles were discontinued in 1984 as consumer preferences shifted and Mars streamlined its product range. Their disappearance left a sweet-shaped hole in British confectionery culture.

Why Were Spangles So Popular?

Spangles sweets succeeded because they were different. Their sharp edges, vibrant colours, and intense flavours made them feel more exciting than traditional boiled sweets. Clever advertising also played a key role, with memorable slogans that helped cement Spangles in the national consciousness.

They were also affordable, making them accessible pocket-money sweets for children throughout the 1950s, 60s, and 70s.

Fun Facts About Spangles Sweets

Here are some delightful facts that make Spangles even sweeter:

  • Square was revolutionary: At the time of their release, square sweets were highly unusual and helped Spangles stand out instantly.

  • Famous slogan: Spangles were advertised with the catchy line “You can’t stop sucking Spangles”, which became one of the most memorable sweet slogans of its era.

  • Limited-edition revivals: Spangles have briefly returned to shops in limited runs, instantly selling out due to nostalgic demand.

  • Celebrity fans: Many British celebrities have cited Spangles as their favourite childhood sweet.

  • Collectors’ items: Original Spangles packaging is now sought after by collectors of vintage confectionery memorabilia.

Can You Still Buy Spangles Today?

While Spangles are no longer in regular production, they occasionally reappear as limited-edition releases or in retro sweet selections. Many online sweet shops and nostalgia stores offer Spangles-inspired sweets or faithful recreations designed to capture the original flavours.

The Legacy of Spangles Sweets

Spangles sweets remain a symbol of Britain’s golden age of confectionery. Their bold design, memorable marketing, and irresistible flavours ensured their place in sweet history. Even decades after their discontinuation, Spangles continue to inspire fond memories and calls for a permanent return.

For many, Spangles are not just sweets. They are colourful little time capsules of childhood joy.