Dee, a third-generation candy maker, founded Ce De Candy Inc. and began making Smarties candy rolls in 1949.

There is still much work to be done in the industry when it comes to diversity, but Editor Crystal Lindell is happy to see that there is progress being made.

Smarties Candy Co. will mark its 70th anniversary at the Sweets & Snacks Expo with the launch of three new products.

During a visit to Smarties Candy Co. co-presidents Liz Dee, Jessica Dee Sawyer and Sarah Dee blew Editor Crystal Lindell away. It's still rare to see women in such high ranks in the confectionery industry, and Lindell was inspired not only by how they run the company, but also by how open they were about embracing the fact that they were, well, women.

Smarties Candy Co. has three new co-presidents. Jessica Dee Sawyer, Sarah Dee and Liz Dee, who most recently served their family’s business as vice presidents, are succeeding Jonathan Dee, Sarah’s father and Jessica and Liz’s uncle, AdAge reported.