In 2003 Derek Lawson purchased his first candy store in Wilmington, NC.  He created a new genre of candy which saved the once failing business. 

His new creations set him apart from all-other candy stores and ultimately became a modern day cultural icon: "GIGANTIC GUMMY BEARS!"

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    In 2006 Derek purchased and reversed the fortunes of another failing candy store in Raleigh, NC and once again made it profitable - as the new home of his WORLD'S LARGEST GUMMY BEARS! TM 

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As of April, 2019 "POPALOP'S Candy Shop" in Crabtree Valley Mall is closed.   (Check back for more details).