As Airheads Turns 40, Longtime Employee Remembers the Candy’s Early Days (Exclusive)

**Celebrating Four Decades of Airheads: A Sweet Journey with Paul Steffen**

This year marks the fortieth anniversary of the beloved candy Airheads, and for Paul Steffen, a significant figure in its development, it is a moment to reflect on both the candy’s success and his own career in the confectionery industry. Now 60 years old, Steffen began his journey at Perfetti Van Melle—which produces Airheads—shortly after he graduated from high school in 1984.

In an interview, Steffen reminisced about his childhood, sharing how he and his friends would hunt for empty Coke bottles to trade in for money, which they would spend on sweets at a local shop. His fascination with candy was evident from an early age, as he even told friends he would one day work for a candy manufacturer. This dream came true when he secured a summer job at Van Melle, a company known for Mentos at the time.

Steffen’s position at Van Melle became a pivotal moment in his life. He was offered a role as the company’s 21st employee and was soon invited to taste a new creation in the quality assurance lab—a yet-to-be-named cherry taffy dough. This product was inspired by the company’s earlier attempts to create a fruit-based nutritional snack called VitAlive, which did not find success in the U.S. market. Undeterred, the team redirected their efforts, leading to the birth of the fruity taffy that would later be known as Airheads.

Reflecting on the new candy, Steffen was struck by its deliciousness. “It was full of flavour, it was bold, it was great,” he recalled. His enthusiasm was clear as he proclaimed, “This is a winner. What are we going to do with it?” Following his assessment, the candy underwent testing in children’s focus groups across the country, where it gained its catchy name, “Airheads,” which played on the whimsical idea of playful, light-hearted fun.

The original branding featured three balloons representing Airheads’ first three flavours: cherry, watermelon, and strawberry. As the candy’s popularity grew and new flavours were introduced, the branding evolved, with the addition of an endearing balloon mascot named Oscar.

Steffen’s role within the company has grown significantly since those initial days in the mail room and customer service. Over the years, he achieved his ambition of working in transportation, notably arranging Airheads’ first international shipment to the Netherlands in 1989. Today, he serves as the facility manager at the company’s expansive distribution centre in Erlanger, Kentucky.

As Airheads reaches this landmark anniversary, Steffen reflects on its nostalgic significance for many. “Today’s adults remember growing up with Airheads,” he noted, explaining how the candy evokes cherished memories from days spent at the swimming pool or during school sports events. This connection allows parents, who enjoyed Airheads in their youth, to share the treat with their children, creating a multigenerational bond.

In celebration of the candy’s 40th birthday, Steffen is organising a themed party at his home, inviting family and friends to join in the festivities. “My kids grew up with it, and my grandkids are growing up with it,” he said, revealing plans for games and a cake featuring the iconic red balloon mascot. With this gathering, he hopes to create space for reminiscence and joy.

Steffen expressed pride in the enduring mission of Perfetti Van Melle throughout his four decades with the company. “We want to make a good quality product,” he stated, acknowledging the dedication of his colleagues in manufacturing. This commitment, he believes, has been a crucial factor in the candy’s sustained popularity. He is optimistic that Airheads will continue to thrive in the coming years, envisioning “another 40 years” for the beloved confection.

Reflecting on his long tenure at the company, Steffen acknowledged how rare it is to remain with one organisation for such an extended period. “I just show up every day, give my best, and live out my dreams,” he shared. It is clear that for Steffen, both Airheads and his career have been a source of fulfilment, encapsulating a lifelong passion for candy-making and joyful memories.