After nearly three decades of serving sweet treats to the local community, a beloved See’s Candies store in Sunnyvale, California, is preparing to close its doors for good. The closure marks the end of an era for longtime fans of the iconic California chocolate brand in the South Bay.
Sunnyvale Location Set to Close on May 11
The See’s Candies store at 1238 W. El Camino Real will officially shut down operations on May 11, according to a store manager who confirmed the news to SFGATE. The closure was first reported by the Mercury News, though the company has not released an official public statement explaining the decision.
Located in a small shopping plaza, the Sunnyvale store has been a staple for chocolate lovers since it first opened in the mid-1990s. City records indicate the location was expected to remain in operation through December 2026, making the closure unexpected for both customers and local officials.
Despite inquiries, See’s Candies did not respond to requests for comment at the time of publication, leaving the reasons behind the closure unclear.
A Longtime Fixture in the Bay Area
While the Sunnyvale store is closing, See’s Candies continues to operate dozens of locations across the Bay Area, including nearby cities like Santa Clara, which will become the closest shop for Sunnyvale residents following the closure.
For many locals, the store offered more than chocolate—it was a nostalgic reminder of family traditions, holidays, and hometown charm. Customers often stopped by for classic favorites like buttercreams, lollipops, peanut brittle, and the company’s signature hand-dipped bonbons.
“It’s not just a candy store—it’s part of the fabric of the community,” said one longtime Sunnyvale resident. “It’s where I’d take my kids every Valentine’s Day and where my parents would shop during the holidays.”
The Legacy of See’s Candies
Founded in 1921 in Los Angeles, See’s Candies has grown into a cherished West Coast brand known for its black-and-white storefronts, courteous customer service, and time-honored recipes.
The company’s first San Francisco location opened in 1936, and its popularity quickly spread throughout California. Just a few years later, See’s was featured at the 1939 World’s Fair, where crowds were wowed by its live chocolate-dipping demonstrations. That exhibit became one of the fair’s most talked-about attractions, showcasing See’s iconic approach to candy making.
Over the years, the company has continued to evolve. Today, See’s operates its main headquarters in South San Francisco and announced in 2022 plans to open a new regional headquarters in Sacramento, signaling ongoing investment in its operations despite select store closures.
Unanswered Questions About the Closure
Though no official reason has been given for the Sunnyvale store’s closure, several possibilities have been speculated by customers and local media:
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Rising commercial rents and operational costs in Silicon Valley
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Shifting retail patterns as more customers shop online
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Corporate restructuring or relocation efforts as the company expands elsewhere
Whatever the reason, the announcement has taken many by surprise, especially given the store’s apparent lease through 2026.
Where Customers Can Go Next
Once the Sunnyvale location closes, loyal customers won’t have to travel far to get their See’s fix. The nearest store is located in Santa Clara, with other Bay Area locations in San Jose, Palo Alto, Mountain View, and beyond.
In addition, See’s continues to offer its full product lineup through its online store, with delivery available across the U.S. and Canada. The company also partners with select retail stores and pop-up kiosks during the holidays.
A Community Says Goodbye
Though the storefront may be shuttering, See’s will remain in the hearts—and sweet tooths—of Sunnyvale residents.
“It was part of our family’s traditions,” one shopper said. “My kids always looked forward to the free sample when we walked in. I’m sad to see it go, but I’m grateful for all the memories.”
As the store prepares for its final week of operations, community members are expected to visit for one last purchase, perhaps a final box of chocolates to mark the end of a decades-long chapter.
Conclusion: A Bittersweet Goodbye
The closure of the Sunnyvale See’s Candies store represents more than the loss of a retail location—it’s a reminder of how communities change and how even the most familiar neighborhood fixtures can disappear. While the company continues to thrive elsewhere, many will feel the absence of this particular shop.
Until May 11, residents have a chance to stop in, pick up a favorite treat, and say farewell to a local institution that has sweetened life in Sunnyvale for nearly 30 years.
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