Mars
Mars, Incorporated, a global leader in confectionery, petcare, and food, evolved from a single founder's confectionery vision in 1911 to become one of the world's largest privately-held family businesses.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1911
- Founder
- Frank C. Mars
- Origin
- USA
Founders
Story Chapters
Timeline
Mars is Founded
Frank C. Mars establishes Mars in Tacoma, Washington, laying the foundation for a future confectionery giant.
Introduction of Milky Way
Mars launches the Milky Way bar, its first major success, which becomes an American favorite.
Creation of Snickers
The Snickers bar is introduced, named after the Mars family's favorite horse, and becomes a best-seller.
Expansion to the UK
Mars opens its first international factory in Slough, England, marking the beginning of global expansion.
Launch of M&M's
Mars collaborates with Bruce Murrie to create M&M's, a candy that becomes a wartime staple and later a global icon.
Mars Merges with Wrigley
Mars merges with Wrigley, expanding its product range to include gums and mints, strengthening its market position.
Mars Bars in Space
Mars bars become the first candy to be eaten in space, aboard the space shuttle Columbia.
Launch of Mars Petcare
Mars enters the pet care industry, establishing a new division that would grow to be a major part of its business.
Acquisition of Wrigley
Mars completes the acquisition of Wrigley, fully integrating the company into its operations and expanding its confectionery dominance.
Sustainability Initiatives
Mars commits to sustainability by pledging to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain by 2050.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and treaties that share history with this company.
Civilization Archive
(5)Abbasid Civilization
The Abbasid Caliphate's Golden Age propelled advancements in astronomy and mathematics, laying groundwork for future scientific exploration, akin to Mars' exploration.
Achaemenid Persian Empire
The Achaemenid Empire's bureaucratic governance and road systems influenced administrative practices in later empires, echoing Mars' role in connecting civilizations.
Ancient Egyptian Civilization
Ancient Egypt's irrigation techniques and monumental architecture influenced global agricultural practices and engineering feats, paralleling Mars' role in sustaining civilizations.
Aztec Civilization
The Aztec Empire's sophisticated agricultural techniques and trade networks exemplified a thriving civilization, paralleling Mars' potential for sustaining future colonies.
Inca Civilization
The Inca Empire's advanced road systems and agricultural terraces demonstrated innovative adaptation to harsh environments, akin to Mars' potential for human settlement.
Conflict Archive
(2)American Revolutionary War
The American Revolutionary War's success in establishing a democratic nation inspired global independence movements, mirroring Mars' role in fostering new beginnings.
Mexican-American War
The Mexican-American War's territorial shifts, including California's acquisition, facilitated U.S. westward expansion, mirroring Mars' potential for new frontiers.
Explore Related Archives
Great companies don't emerge in a vacuum. They rise from the foundations of civilizations, the ambitions of rulers, and the aftermath of conflicts. Explore the historical context:
