Page Contents
The Untold Truth About Mars Wrigley Confectionery
When it comes to candy and chocolate, Mars, Inc. is an industry powerhouse. Known for iconic treats like M&M’s and Snickers bars, the company solidified its position as a global leader in chocolate and confectionery when it acquired Wrigley in 2008. But there’s much more to Mars Wrigley Confectionery than meets the eye. From its rich history to its innovative products, let’s dive into the untold truth of this candy empire.
A candy empire in the hands of the wealthy
The Mars family, which owns Mars Wrigley Confectionery, is one of the wealthiest families in the United States. According to Forbes’ 2020 ranking of “Billion Dollar Dynasties,” the Mars family ranks third with a net worth of $94 billion. Only the Walton family (of Walmart) and the Koch Industries family surpass them in wealth. Six members of the Mars family, including Jacqueline and John Mars, inherited the candy empire in 1999 after the death of their father, Forrest Mars, Sr. Their brother, Forrest Mars, Jr. also played a major role in the company until his death in 2016. In addition to candy and gum, Mars Wrigley has expanded its portfolio to include food products such as Ben’s Original Rice, pet food and even veterinary clinics.
Explore Gourmet Chocolates at Mars Wrigley
Did you know that Mars Wrigley not only makes mass-market chocolate bars, but also owns a chain of gourmet chocolate shops? Founded in 1981 by Forrest Mars, Sr., Ethel M. Chocolates offers small-batch chocolates made with high-quality ingredients. Named after his mother, Mars Sr. turned his candy store into a popular tourist destination. Ethel M. Chocolates stands apart from mass-produced candies with its emphasis on natural ingredients and handmade candy fillings such as caramel and nougat. Some of their most popular offerings are liqueur-filled chocolates and satin creams.
British origins of popular Mars Wrigley brands
While Mars Wrigley Confectionery is synonymous with American candy, some of its most popular brands actually originated in the United Kingdom. Starburst, known for its fruity chews, was first introduced by Mars in England as “Opal Fruits”. Similarly, Skittles, with its bright colors and fruity flavors, debuted in the UK before capturing the hearts of American consumers. Twix, one of the top five most popular candy bars in the U.S., was enjoyed by Britons for 12 years before being introduced in the U.S. Wrigley also found success across the pond with Orbit chewing gum, the first sugar-free gum introduced in the UK.
Supporting soldiers during World War II
During World War II, Mars Wrigley played a patriotic role by redirecting its chewing gum production to support soldiers. With strict rationing of essential foods such as meat, butter and sugar in the U.S., Phillip K. Wrigley made the decision to stop selling gum to civilians and send all of Wrigley’s Spearmint, Juicy Fruit and Doublemint gum to the armed forces. This move not only ensured that soldiers had adequate supplies, but also increased the popularity of Wrigley’s gum. U.S. soldiers brought their love of Wrigley’s gum back home, spreading the gum craze to other countries. The impact was so great that one World War II veteran requested to be buried in a casket painted to resemble a pack of Juicy Fruit, which eventually became a reality thanks to public pressure.
A Legacy of Secrecy and Competitiveness
The Mars family has cultivated a culture of secrecy and privacy, with a long history of conducting business away from the public eye. This began with Forrest Mars, Sr. who went to great lengths to avoid publicity as he built his candy empire. Employees were expected to follow strict rules, and Mars Sr. was known for his fiery temper and attention to punctuality. The competitive nature of the candy industry, especially between Mars and Hershey, also contributed to the company’s secretive nature. In recent years, however, Mars Wrigley has recognized the importance of transparency and attracting new talent, leading to a shift toward a more public approach.
Mars Wrigley Confectionery is not just a candy company; it’s a global player with a rich history and a commitment to innovation. From its humble beginnings as a Chicago-based chewing gum manufacturer to its current status as a confectionery powerhouse, Mars Wrigley continues to delight consumers around the world with its iconic brands and delicious treats.
FAQS
Who owns Mars Wrigley candy?
Mars Wrigley Confectionery is owned by the wealthy Mars family, one of the richest families in the United States.
What are some of the popular brands owned by Mars Wrigley Confectionery?
Mars Wrigley Confectionery is known for iconic brands such as M&M’s, Snickers, Juicy Fruit, Doublemint and Life Savers, among many others.
Where did some of Mars Wrigley’s most popular brands originate?
Surprisingly, some of Mars Wrigley’s most popular brands, such as Starburst and Skittles, got their start in the United Kingdom before becoming popular in the United States.
Does Mars Wrigley Confectionery make gourmet chocolates?
Yes, Mars Wrigley Confectionery owns Ethel M. Chocolates, a chain of gourmet chocolate shops offering small-batch, high-quality chocolates made with natural ingredients.
How did Mars Wrigley support soldiers during World War II?
Mars Wrigley played a patriotic role during the war by redirecting its gum production to supply the armed forces with Wrigley’s Spearmint, Juicy Fruit and Doublemint gums.
What is the Mars family’s approach to privacy and confidentiality?
The Mars family has a long history of privacy and secrecy in its business operations, but in recent years Mars Wrigley has recognized the importance of transparency and has become more public.