Retail Concepts, a consulting team based in Massachusetts, received 149 nominations from residents asked to submit their votes. Stories included in the nominations helped elevate Marie’s, which was praised for numerous practices including free samples, personalized customer service and emphasizing its history.

The store is now scheduled for a free mini-consult Thursday.

“It is clear that the Marie’s brand is all about quality, tradition, community, customer service and of course, great tasting chocolate!” RC representatives enthused.

The late Marie King began making candy in her kitchen in 1956 as gifts for people who helped care for her invalid husband. The business now is owned and oeprated by her son and daughter-in-law, Jay and Kathy King in West Liberty, where more than 80 varieties of chocolate are featured.

“The history of the brand is meaningful and an important competitive advantage and Marie’s uses this to help community its brand personality,” contest organizers said.