Carol Widman's Candy Co. Ownership Changed Hands
Owners Carol and Dave Kennedy have retired, passing control of the Fargo landmark to Shawn Widman.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Desserts
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After 34 years of operation in Fargo, founders Carol Widman Kennedy and Dave Kennedy have retired from Carol Widman's Candy Co. Shawn Widman, who already owns and operates a candy shop in Grand Forks, assumed ownership of the Fargo location on October 1, 2026.
Why it matters
The transition marks a new chapter for a business deeply rooted in local tradition, maintaining continuity for the family-run enterprise. Shawn Widman prepared for the role by traveling between Grand Forks and Fargo to master the specific operational needs of the shop.
The shop, located at 4325 13th Ave. S. in Fargo, utilizes approximately 100,000 pounds of milk chocolate annually. Of that total, 70,000 pounds are dedicated to producing Chippers, the signature chocolate-dipped potato chips introduced in 1989.
The players
Carol Widman Kennedy
She is the retiring co-owner who helped establish the Fargo candy store in 1990.
Dave Kennedy
He is the retiring co-owner who operated the family business in Fargo for 34 years.
Shawn Widman
He is the new owner of the Fargo store who also manages Widman's Candy Shop in Grand Forks.
The details
Widman's Candy Shop has a long history, starting with the original family tradition in 1885 in Dubuque, Iowa, and later expanding with stores in Crookston, Minnesota, and Grand Forks. The Fargo location, which opened in 1990, relies on a special second shift during the busy fall season to keep up with the production of its famous Chippers.
Timeline
1885: The Widman family candy tradition began in Dubuque, Iowa.
1911: The Widman's store opened in Crookston, Minnesota.
1949: The store opened its location in Grand Forks.
1989: George I introduced the chocolate-dipped Chippers.
October 1, 2026: Ownership of the Fargo business passed to Shawn Widman.
Roadmap
This leadership transition follows a pattern set by the 1885 Widman family candy tradition that ensures the business remains under family stewardship. By consolidating the Fargo and Grand Forks locations under one owner, the family continues a legacy of regional manufacturing that dates back to the early 20th century.
Customers can expect the store to maintain its production of traditional items like Chippers, which are especially popular during the fall. The transition in ownership is intended to be seamless, with day-to-day shopping routines at the 13th Avenue location expected to continue as normal.
The takeaway
Family-run businesses often maintain their longevity by ensuring that traditions and proprietary production methods are passed down through generations. Keeping local institutions in the family helps preserve unique regional treats like Chippers for future customers.
Further reading
For more on the local food scene, browse our Desserts section.
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