But you are charged $50 to try to win, will you still want to play?
Jelly Belly founder David Klein has announced a golden ticket contest of his own in which one lucky winner will receive the key to a candy factory. Unlike the original story, in which tickets were hidden inside the wrappers of Wonka Bars, Klein’s tickets will be hidden “in secret locations” throughout the U.S., with at least one ticket in each state, he says. Everyone who finds one will receive $5,000 and a chance to win the big prize.
Klein, who no longer owns Jelly Belly, told ABC7 News he is giving away one of “Candyman Kitchens” in Florida
“The world needs this right now, we have received thousands of comments from people who say this has come at such a perfect time,” said Klein about the treasure hunt.
“Each treasure hunt has a strict limit of 1,000 participants,” added Klein.
One strange thing that sets this contest apart from the fictional one: Klein is charging contestants to compete. A clue that could lead to a golden ticket will set each participant back $50.
On the website,thegoldticket.com, there is not a set of legal rules or a “No Purchase Necessary” option. Some folks are saying this is legal because it is not a game of chance, others disagree.
Click here for instructions on how to play and a reminder that you must also be on FACEBOOK to participate.
Proceed with caution here folks. People are buying in quickly, and according to their own social media, the roll out has not gone smoothly due to a large response.
The fine folks at JELLY BELLY have reached out to us with the following statement:
Due to confusion in the marketplace, Jelly Belly Candy Company would like to take this opportunity to clear up the misconception that it is involved with a contest that purportedly offers a candy factory as its grand prize. Jelly Belly Candy Company, formerly known as Herman Goelitz Candy Company, has candy making roots back to 1869. It was founded by brothers Gustav and Albert Goelitz and remains family owned and operated today.
David Klein, the sponsor of the “treasure hunt” contest gaining attention within the media this weekend, is not associated with Jelly Belly Candy Company, its brands, or products. In 1976, Mr. Klein, an independent third party, came up with the name “Jelly Belly” and other novel marketing ideas. Jelly Belly Candy Company has not had a relationship with Mr. Klein since 1980 when it acquired the trademark.
May the odds be ever in your favor and happy treasure hunting.
Susan Saunders 9/8/20
