Case Study: Hershey’s achieves a global culture of recognition — 11% boost in satisfaction and 50,000+ recognition moments — with Workhuman

Hershey's - Customer Case Study

The Hershey Company, a 150‑year‑old leader in chocolate and confectionery, faced a rising recognition problem: survey scores showed an 8% decline and an audit revealed inconsistent, low‑visibility, redundant programs with limited manager access across its global, multi‑generational workforce. Hershey needed a single, consistent recognition strategy to boost engagement and align with its One Hershey values.

Hershey partnered with Globoforce to launch SMILES, a branded, values‑aligned global recognition program available in 17 countries, five languages and via web, mobile and paper for frontline employees. Adoption was rapid — 8.7% of employees were recognized in the first week and more than 50,000 SMILES were awarded in year one (68% from leaders); recognition occurred across 81% of countries and reached 100% of the organization, with weekly recognition at 8% and recognition satisfaction up 11% (growing to 100,000+ moments over two years).

Hershey's