Is M&M Owned by Hershey? Discover the Truth Behind the Chocolate Brands

Is M&M Owned by Hershey? Discover the Truth Behind the Chocolate Brands

When it comes to popular chocolate brands, M&M’s and Hershey are two names that often come up. Many people wonder if M&M’s is owned by Hershey, given their prominence in the candy aisle. In this article, we’ll explore the ownership of M&M’s, the history of both brands, and how they relate to each other.

Ownership of M&M’s and Hershey

• M&M’s: M&M’s is a brand owned by Mars, Incorporated, one of the largest privately held companies in the United States. Mars is known for a wide range of confectionery products, including Snickers, Twix, and Milky Way.
• Hershey: The Hershey Company, often simply called Hershey’s, is a separate entity and one of the oldest chocolate manufacturers in the U.S. It owns brands like Hershey’s Kisses, Reese’s, and Kit Kat (in the U.S.).

Despite both being major players in the chocolate industry, M&M’s and Hershey are competitors rather than part of the same company.

A Brief History

• Mars, Inc. was founded by Frank C. Mars and later expanded by his son Forrest Mars Sr., who created M&M’s during World War II as a candy that wouldn’t melt easily.
• Hershey was founded by Milton Hershey, who pioneered mass production of chocolate in the U.S. and built a company town around his factory.

Key Differences Between M&M’s and Hershey

• Ownership: M&M’s is owned by Mars, Inc., while Hershey is an independent company.
• Product Range: Mars offers a broader range of candy bars and chocolates globally, whereas Hershey focuses more on the U.S. market.
• Brand Identity: M&M’s is known for its colorful candy-coated chocolates and playful marketing, while Hershey emphasizes traditional chocolate bars and nostalgic branding.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is M&M’s a Hershey product?

No, M&M’s is owned by Mars, Inc., not Hershey.

Does Hershey make M&M’s in the U.S.?

No, M&M’s are produced by Mars, Inc. Hershey does manufacture some other candies but not M&M’s.

Why do people confuse M&M’s and Hershey?

Because both are iconic American chocolate brands often found in the same stores, people sometimes assume they are related.

Are there any collaborations between Mars and Hershey?

Generally, Mars and Hershey operate independently and compete in the confectionery market, with no major collaborations.

Conclusion

M&M’s and Hershey are two distinct chocolate brands owned by different companies. Understanding their separate histories and ownership helps clarify the common confusion. Whether you prefer the colorful M&M’s or the classic Hershey’s chocolate, both brands have rich legacies in the candy world.