Mars, Incorporated is one of the world's largest privately held companies, with a strong presence in the confectionery, pet care, and food industries. The company operates four main business segments: Mars Wrigley Confectionery, Petcare, Food, and Mars Edge, the life sciences division. Mars is headquartered in McLean, Virginia, and is entirely owned by the Mars family.
The company was founded in 1911 by Frank C. Mars in Tacoma, Washington. Initially starting as a candy business, Mars has grown significantly over the years, expanding into various sectors and becoming a leader in the consumer goods industry. The company is known for iconic brands such as M&M's, Snickers, and Pedigree.
Mars, Incorporated is a privately held company and does not publicly disclose its funding rounds or valuation. However, it is known for its substantial annual sales, which were reported to be around $47 billion in 2023.
Confectionery: Brands like M&M's, Snickers, and Twix are household names globally.
Pet Care: Includes brands such as Pedigree, Whiskas, and Royal Canin.
Mars has a history of strategic acquisitions to expand its product portfolio and market reach. Notable acquisitions include the purchase of Wrigley in 2008 and VCA, an animal hospital company, in 2017. Recently, Mars announced plans to acquire Kellanova for $35.9 billion, further expanding its presence in the consumer packaged goods space.
Mars is committed to innovation, particularly in its confectionery and pet care segments. The company is expanding its ice cream business and introducing new products like M&M's Peanut Butter Mega and Dovebar ice cream with sustainably sourced ingredients
Mars is known for its strong organizational culture, which is centered around the Five Principles: Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency, and Freedom. The company fosters a collaborative and egalitarian work environment, encouraging professional development and teamwork among its employees.
Mars has a vast global user base, with products available in over 80 countries. The company actively engages with its community through various digital marketing strategies, including social media and partnerships with platforms like Instacart for same-day delivery. Mars also invests in community initiatives and sustainability programs, reflecting its commitment to social responsibility.
