Eduard Haas

Eduard Haas III (1897–1989) was an Austrian entrepreneur and inventor, best known for creating the popular candy brand PEZ.

Early Life

Eduard Haas was born in 1897 in Austria. He was part of a family that had a long tradition in the baking industry. His grandfather, Eduard Haas I, had invented a baking powder that became popular in Austria.

Invention of PEZ

In the 1920s, Eduard Haas III developed a peppermint candy that he named "PEZ," derived from the German word for peppermint, "PfeffErminZ." Originally, PEZ was marketed as a breath mint for adults and was sold in tins.

PEZ Dispenser

In 1949, Eduard Haas introduced the iconic PEZ dispenser, which was designed to resemble a cigarette lighter. This innovation was part of a marketing strategy to promote PEZ as an alternative to smoking. The dispensers became a significant part of the brand's identity and contributed to its popularity.

Expansion and Popularity

PEZ candies and dispensers gained popularity in the United States during the 1950s. The company began to produce dispensers with character heads, which appealed to children and collectors. This shift in marketing helped PEZ become a household name.

Legacy

Eduard Haas III passed away in 1989, but his invention continues to be a beloved candy worldwide. The PEZ brand has expanded to include a wide variety of flavors and collectible dispensers, maintaining its status as a cultural icon.

See Also

• PEZ
• Candy
• Confectionery

References

• "The History of PEZ." PEZ Candy, Inc. Accessed October 2023.
• "Eduard Haas and the Invention of PEZ." Austrian Inventors. Accessed October 2023.

External Links

• [PEZ Official Website](https://www.pez.com)