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Richard H. Lenny, who has struggled to preserve The Hershey Co's prominence as the largest US candy maker, said yesterday he will retire as chairman, president and chief executive at the end of this year.
"The long-term prospects for our category and particularly for our company remain promising," Lenny said.
"I look forward to working closely with my successor so that the transition to new leadership will be effective and seamless.
" Lenny, 55, has been Hershey's top executive since 2001.