What Companies Does Mars Own

What Companies Does Mars Own?

Mars is one of the world’s most recognizable private companies, known not just for chocolates and candies but for its global presence in pet care, food, and veterinary services. The question what companies does Mars own is more complex than it seems, as Mars has diversified its portfolio far beyond candy. From Whiskas to Wrigley, and from Royal Canin to Banfield Pet Hospital, the Mars empire is vast and constantly growing.

Table of Contents

Mars Company Profile

Mars, Incorporated is a multinational company based in McLean, Virginia, USA. It is one of the largest privately-owned companies in the world, operating in over 80 countries and employing more than 140,000 people as of 2025. While most people know Mars for its popular candy brands like M&M’s and Snickers, the company has grown into a diverse conglomerate involved in confectionery, pet care, food products, and veterinary health services.

Mars operates through several divisions:

  • Mars Wrigley (confectionery and gum)
  • Mars Petcare (pet food and veterinary health)
  • Mars Food & Nutrition (rice, sauces, and healthy snacks)
  • Mars Edge (nutrition and health science).

Despite its global scale, Mars remains a 100% family-owned business, which is rare for a company of its size.

Founders of Mars

Mars was founded in 1911 by Franklin Clarence Mars in Tacoma, Washington. He started by making and selling buttercream candy from his kitchen. His son, Forrest Mars Sr., later played a crucial role in expanding and modernizing the company into a global powerhouse.

Key figures in Mars’ founding and growth:

  • Frank Mars: Original founder who launched the company with candy products.
  • Forrest Mars Sr.: Took the company international and introduced legendary products like M&M’s and the Mars Bar.
  • Jacqueline and John Mars: Heirs of the Mars fortune and stewards of the family legacy.

Major Milestones

1911 – Franklin Mars starts selling buttercream candies in Tacoma, Washington.
1923 – Launch of the Milky Way bar, Mars’ first major success.
1930 – Introduction of the Snickers bar.
1932 – Forrest Mars Sr. creates the Mars Bar and sets up operations in the UK.
1941 – Mars introduces M&M’s, originally made for soldiers during World War II.
1967 – Mars enters the pet food market by acquiring Chappie Ltd. in the UK.
1980s–1990s – Continued expansion in pet care, rice and food products (including Uncle Ben’s), and global manufacturing.
2001 – Acquires Royal Canin, a major move in pet nutrition.
2007 – Acquires Banfield Pet Hospital, entering the veterinary services market.
2008 – Mars acquires Wrigley, creating one of the largest confectionery businesses globally.
2014–2018 – Expands veterinary services with the acquisition of VCA, BluePearl, and AniCura.
2020 – Fully acquires Kind Snacks, moving further into health-focused food products.
2022–2025 – Focus on digital transformation, sustainability, and expanding global pet healthcare and diagnostics.

List of Companies Owned by Mars

what companies does mars own

As of 2025, Mars, Incorporated owns and operates a vast and diversified portfolio across multiple industries, primarily in confectionery, pet care, food, nutrition, and veterinary health services.

Below is a detailed look at the major companies, brands, acquisitions, and entities directly owned and operated by Mars as of 2025:

NameSegmentYear Acquired/FoundedFocus AreaLatest Update (2023–2025)
Mars WrigleyConfectionery2008 (Wrigley merged)Candy, gum, mintsReformulated recipes and sugar-reduction R&D
M&M’sConfectionery1941Chocolate candiesNew flavors and international editions
SnickersConfectionery1930Chocolate bars with nougat, caramel, peanutsExpanded into plant-based variant (2024)
TwixConfectionery1967Caramel and biscuit barNew caramel-salt and peanut butter versions
SkittlesConfectionery1974Fruit-flavored chewy candyTropical and sour flavor launches
StarburstConfectionery1960Fruit-flavored chewy candyVegan-friendly version introduced (2024)
OrbitGum1976 (Wrigley)Sugar-free gumExpanded dental health claims
ExtraGum1984Sugar-free gumAdded vitamin-infused variants
5 GumGum2007Youth-targeted gumIntroduced sensory-stimulating flavors
AltoidsMints1997 (via Wrigley)Strong mintsLimited-edition seasonal tins
Life SaversMints/Candy2004 (via Wrigley)Hard candy and mintsExpansion in Latin America markets
Royal CaninPetcare2001Veterinary and breed-specific pet nutritionOpened new production plant in India (2025)
PedigreePetcare1934Mainstream dog foodUpdated packaging and health claims (2024)
WhiskasPetcare1936Mainstream cat foodLaunched premium range “Select”
Banfield Pet HospitalVeterinary Health2007General veterinary careRolled out VetSmart AI for diagnostics
VCA Animal HospitalsVeterinary Health2017Multi-specialty vet clinicsAcquired new clinics in Canada (2023–2024)
BluePearlVeterinary Health2015Emergency and specialty vet careTeleSpecialist Network launched (2025)
AniCuraVeterinary Health2018European specialty veterinary careAdded PetCare Italia and Clinique Vétérinaire Alliance (2024)
Linnaeus GroupVeterinary Health2018UK-based vet groupAcquired Ridgeway, Green Pastures, and Edinburgh Pet ER (2023–2024)
Kind SnacksFood & Nutrition2020 (full acquisition)Health snacksEntered APAC markets (2024)
NutroPetcarePre-2014Natural pet foodLaunched Wild Origins line (2025)
GreeniesPetcare2006Dental treats and supplementsIntroduced digestive and joint health lines (2023)
ShebaPetcare1980sPremium wet cat foodFreeze-dried gourmet line (2024)
CesarPetcare1998Small-breed dog wet foodNew Signature Mixes launched (2023)
Dreamies / TemptationsPetcareEarly 2000sCat treatsAdded Calming Bites and Digestive Support (2023)
EukanubaPetcare2014Performance pet foodLaunched Elite Athlete line (2024)
CocoaViaHealth/Nutrition2010sCocoa-based health supplementsReleased Cognitive Clarity capsules (2025)
Ben’s OriginalFood2020 (rebrand)Rice and ready mealsIntroduced protein rice bowls (2023)
DolmioFood1980sPasta saucesRelaunched with sustainable packaging (2023)
Seeds of ChangeFood1997Organic meals and saucesAdded quinoa risottos and fusion bowls (2024)
MasterFoodsFood1945Condiments and sauces (Australia)Reduced sugar and sodium in key lines (2023)
Tasty BiteFood2014Indian and Asian ready mealsLaunched Chef’s Series (2025)
Mars EdgeHealth/Nutrition2017Personalized health and nutritionExpanding into supplement personalization platforms (2025)
BetterBowlPetcare (Fresh Food)2023Fresh-frozen dog mealsEntry into fresh pet food market
Pet Insight AIPetTech2024AI diagnostics for petsIntegrated into Banfield and VCA systems
Verdana SnacksFood & Nutrition2025Plant-based snack brand (Latin America)Added to Kind’s supply chain
PetPal AsiaDigital Petcare2025Online vet services and pet retailExpansion in Southeast Asia

Mars Wrigley

Mars Wrigley is the largest segment of Mars and handles its global confectionery business. It was formed in 2008 when Mars acquired Wrigley and merged it with its existing chocolate and gum brands. Mars Wrigley manages an extensive range of well-known candy, gum, and mint brands that are sold in more than 180 countries.

Key brands under Mars Wrigley include:

  • M&M’s – Colorful button-shaped chocolate candies with a hard candy shell.
  • Snickers – One of the world’s top-selling chocolate bars, made with nougat, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate.
  • Twix – A chocolate-coated biscuit bar with caramel, offered in twin-stick packaging.
  • Mars Bar – A nougat and caramel-filled bar coated in milk chocolate.
  • Skittles – Fruit-flavored chewy candies known for their vibrant colors.
  • Orbit – A sugar-free chewing gum.
  • Extra – A popular chewing gum brand, often marketed for dental benefits.
  • Doublemint – A legacy mint gum brand from the Wrigley side.
  • 5 Gum – A sleek, modern gum brand targeted at young consumers.
  • Juicy Fruit – One of the oldest gum brands under the Wrigley legacy.
  • Hubba Bubba – A bubble gum known for its fun flavors and child-friendly appeal.
  • Starburst – A chewy fruit-flavored candy brand.

Royal Canin

Royal Canin is a leading global provider of premium pet food with a focus on breed-specific and veterinary-prescribed nutrition. Mars acquired it in 2001. Headquartered in France, Royal Canin serves breeders, pet stores, and veterinary clinics in over 90 countries.

Royal Canin operates as a standalone unit under Mars Petcare and continues to expand its R&D centers and production facilities worldwide.

Royal Canin has expanded its veterinary partnerships and production facilities in Asia and South America in 2023–2025 to meet rising global pet ownership demand.

Pedigree

Pedigree is a core pet food brand under Mars Petcare, offering a wide range of dog food products including dry food, wet food, and treats. It is positioned as a mid-tier and mass-market brand. Pedigree is also involved in dog adoption campaigns and shelters across the globe.

Whiskas

Whiskas is the cat equivalent of Pedigree and is one of the most widely distributed cat food brands. It includes a variety of wet and dry food products and is known for its purple packaging. The brand is part of Mars Petcare’s global cat nutrition strategy.

Banfield Pet Hospital

Banfield is one of the largest veterinary clinic networks in the United States. Mars acquired it in 2007. As of 2025, Banfield operates over 1,000 locations, primarily inside PetSmart stores, and focuses on preventive care through its wellness plans.

In 2024, Banfield introduced VetSmart AI, a proprietary AI-driven platform for real-time pet diagnostics and preventive healthcare.

Banfield’s focus on digital health tools continues to grow, offering app-based scheduling, health tracking, and remote consultations.

VCA Animal Hospitals

Mars acquired VCA Inc. in 2017 for $9.1 billion. VCA runs a vast chain of full-service veterinary hospitals and clinical diagnostic labs across North America. It specializes in general practice, emergency, and specialty veterinary care.

VCA expanded its Canadian footprint in 2023 with the acquisition of Oakridge Animal Hospital and Trillium Pet Clinics, two Ontario-based chains.

VCA now offers pet wellness plans, behavior counseling, diagnostics, and surgery, and it collaborates with universities for veterinary education.

BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital

BluePearl is a high-end veterinary chain focused on specialty and emergency services. Mars acquired BluePearl in 2015. Its hospitals offer advanced services including internal medicine, neurology, oncology, and surgery.

In 2025, BluePearl introduced a TeleSpecialist Network that connects local vets to board-certified specialists via real-time consultations.

AniCura

AniCura is a European veterinary care provider with a strong presence in countries like Germany, Sweden, Norway, and the Netherlands. Mars acquired it in 2018, and it is now part of Mars Veterinary Health Europe. AniCura offers specialty and emergency care, diagnostics, and surgical services.

Mars expanded AniCura in 2024 by acquiring Clinique Vétérinaire Alliance in France and PetCare Italia, a top-tier animal hospital in Milan.

Linnaeus Group

Linnaeus is a UK-based network of veterinary practices and referral hospitals. Mars acquired it as part of its broader effort to expand veterinary services in the UK and Europe. Linnaeus operates hundreds of facilities offering everything from general practice to specialist treatments.

In 2023 and 2024, Linnaeus expanded its portfolio by acquiring Ridgeway Referrals, Green Pastures Veterinary Centre, and Edinburgh Pet Emergency Clinic.

The group continues to grow its focus on digital diagnostics, clinical research, and advanced surgical capabilities.

Kind Snacks

Kind is a health-focused snack brand known for its nut bars, granola, and cereals. Mars took a minority stake in Kind in 2017 and acquired full ownership in 2020. Kind has helped Mars break into the growing market for clean-label, plant-based snacks and compete with other nutrition bar makers.

Kind expanded in 2023 with the launch of Kind Protein+ and Kind Energy Bites.

In 2024, Kind entered the Asia-Pacific market and started distribution in Japan, India, and South Korea.

Nutro

Nutro is a premium natural pet food brand that offers non-GMO and grain-free formulas. It was acquired earlier by Mars Petcare and fits into its portfolio of natural and holistic pet food offerings. Nutro is sold in pet specialty stores and is marketed to health-conscious pet owners.

In 2025, Mars launched Nutro Wild Origins, a line focused on ancestral diets with limited ingredients.

Greenies

Greenies is a dental treat brand for pets. Known for its toothbrush-shaped dog chews, the brand is a key part of Mars Petcare’s oral care portfolio. It is sold through vet clinics, retail chains, and online stores.

Mars extended Greenies into digestive and joint health chews in 2023.

Sheba

Sheba is a premium wet cat food brand positioned above Whiskas. It features elegant packaging and recipes made with real meat or fish. Sheba is also associated with Mars’ sustainability campaign, including its initiative to rebuild ocean habitats.

In 2024, Sheba introduced a freeze-dried gourmet line for cats in select premium markets.

Cesar

Cesar is a gourmet-style dog food brand offering single-serve meals, mostly targeting small-breed dogs. The brand focuses on freshness, quality, and palatability. Mars introduced Cesar Signature Mixes in 2023, a blend of vegetables, meat, and herbs.

Dreamies (Temptations in the U.S.)

Dreamies (sold as Temptations in the U.S. and other markets) is a cat treat brand offering crunchy and creamy snacks. It’s widely recognized by its shaking pack campaign, often associated with playful cat behavior.

Eukanuba

Mars acquired Eukanuba from Procter & Gamble in 2014. It is a premium pet food brand known for its science-based formulas for active and working dogs. It is popular in both retail and professional channels like kennels and breeders.

In 2024, Mars launched Eukanuba Elite Athlete, a specialized range for show dogs and agility champions.

CocoaVia

CocoaVia is a nutrition supplement brand created by Mars Edge, the company’s health science division. The product line uses cocoa flavanols and focuses on brain, heart, and circulatory health. In 2025, CocoaVia released a daily capsule for cognitive clarity, targeting aging consumers.

Mars Food & Nutrition

This division includes staple food brands primarily in the rice, sauces, and ready meals category.

Brands under Mars Food & Nutrition:

  • Ben’s Original – Previously known as Uncle Ben’s, Ben’s Original is a staple rice brand with global reach. In 2023, Mars introduced Ben’s Original Protein Rice Bowls, a plant-based meal line rich in legumes and grains.
  • Dolmio – Dolmio offers pasta sauces in the UK, Europe, and Australia. It features classic tomato-based sauces as well as low-sugar and vegan options. Mars relaunched Dolmio in 2023 with new sustainable glass packaging.
  • Seeds of Change – Seeds of Change produces organic food products, including grain blends, pasta sauces, and ready-to-heat meals. In 2024, the brand expanded its ready-to-eat range to include quinoa risottos and global fusion bowls.
  • MasterFoods – Sold primarily in Australia, MasterFoods offers sauces, marinades, herbs, and seasonings. Mars upgraded the brand in 2023 with new packaging and reduced sodium and sugar content to meet changing consumer health preferences.
  • Tasty Bite – Tasty Bite provides Indian and Asian-style ready meals, sauces, and organic rice dishes. In 2025, Mars introduced Tasty Bite Chef’s Series, a gourmet heat-and-eat product line for premium grocers.

Symbioscience (now part of Mars Edge)

Originally launched as a research-focused division, Symbioscience has evolved into Mars Edge, which develops health-focused products like CocoaVia. It works on personalized nutrition, food science, and plant-based health innovations.

BetterBowl (Acquired 2023)

A U.S.-based start-up producing gently cooked and fresh-frozen pet meals. Mars acquired it to tap into the growing fresh pet food trend.

Pet Insight AI (Acquired 2024)

A health-tech company developing AI tools for early disease detection in pets. Mars integrated it into the Banfield and VCA networks.

Verdana Snacks (Acquired 2025)

A South American plant-based snack brand. Mars acquired it to expand Kind’s footprint and to gain access to regional production facilities.

PetPal Asia (Acquired 2025)

A leading online pet retail and veterinary service platform in Southeast Asia. Mars acquired it to boost digital veterinary services in the region.

Who Owns Mars?

Who Owns Mars (Top Shareholders)

Mars, Incorporated is one of the largest privately held companies in the world, and unlike many multinational corporations, it is not publicly traded. It remains 100% family-owned by the descendants of its founder, Franklin Clarence Mars. Despite the company’s vast scale and global reach, it has consistently maintained its status as a private, closely-held corporation.

As of 2025, the company is owned primarily by members of the Mars family, who oversee the business through trusts and holding structures. While the family does not publicly disclose its full internal ownership structure, several key individuals and entities are widely acknowledged as stakeholders.

Mars Family Ownership Structure

The Mars family collectively owns 100% of Mars, Incorporated through a series of private trusts, foundations, and private investment vehicles. The company does not have external shareholders, institutional investors, or public stockholders.

Key Family Shareholders (2025)

Jacqueline Mars

  • Stake: Estimated at 33%
  • Role: Heiress and former board member
  • Details: Jacqueline Mars is one of the three children of Forrest Mars Sr. She is the richest Mars family member still living and is known to be one of the most influential in the business historically. She no longer holds an active management role but continues to have a significant stake in the company.

John Mars

  • Stake: Estimated at 33%
  • Role: Retired executive and former chairman
  • Details: John Mars is Jacqueline’s brother and was long involved in overseeing the business. He retired from public life but still holds a large portion of the company’s shares.

Descendants of Forrest Mars Jr.

  • Stake: Estimated at 34%
  • Role: Inherited stake from the late Forrest Mars Jr.
  • Details: Forrest Mars Jr., who passed away in 2016, was one of the key figures in Mars’ expansion. His children, including Frank Mars II, Victoria Mars, and others, now own his share. They are involved through board roles, trusts, and advisory boards.

Mars Holdings Inc.

Mars Holdings Inc. is the main holding company used to centralize ownership and governance for Mars, Incorporated. The Mars family uses this structure to manage long-term planning, board governance, and shareholder coordination. It also provides continuity across generations while maintaining operational privacy.

Much of the ownership is managed through private family trusts, many of which are structured to maintain long-term family control. Some trusts are focused on succession planning, philanthropy, or sustainability investments in line with Mars’ ESG goals.

Employee Shareholding

As of 2025, Mars does not offer any public shares or employee stock options. However, some senior executives may have performance-based compensation structures and long-term incentive plans, but no equity ownership is given outside the Mars family.

Mars Family Wealth (2025)

  • Estimated Combined Net Worth: $155–160 billion
  • Rank: Among the top 5 wealthiest families in the world
  • Control: 100% voting control over strategic company decisions

The Mars family’s approach has allowed the company to avoid short-term pressures from public markets. This enables them to reinvest in long-term strategies like pet health expansion, sustainable sourcing, AI in veterinary care, and health and wellness foods, while maintaining tight control over the company’s mission, values, and operations.

Who is the CEO of Mars?

As of 2025, Poul Weihrauch serves as Chief Executive Officer of Mars, Incorporated. He assumed the position in mid‑2022, succeeding Grant Reid. Weihrauch joined Mars in 2000 and has held leadership roles in multiple divisions, especially in pet care and veterinary health.

Poul Weihrauch has over two decades of experience at Mars. He began in operations and rose through senior marketing and general management positions. He led Mars Petcare globally before becoming CEO. His deep understanding of the pet care sector, nutrition science, and global operations gives him unique insight into Mars’ key business areas.

Strategic Priorities

Under Weihrauch, Mars has pursued three core strategic priorities:

  • Pet Health & Nutrition: Continued expansion of veterinary services (Banfield, VCA, AniCura) and premium pet nutrition brands like Royal Canin, Greenies, and Nutro.
  • Health‑Forward Innovation: Mars Edge, including CocoaVia and personalized nutrition platforms, is a focal point for science‑based consumer health offerings.
  • Sustainability & Digital Transformation: Investments in sustainable sourcing, packaging, and AI integration across supply chains and veterinary diagnostics.

Innovation and Leadership Style

Weihrauch is known for a consensus-building style and long‑term approach. He prioritizes data‑driven decisions and science-led product development. He supports collaboration between business units, especially between pet care and nutrition science. His leadership encourages continued investment in R&D and wellness‑focused brands.

Public Engagement & Representation

Although Mars is private, Weihrauch often speaks publicly on topics such as:

  • Animal welfare and preventive veterinary care
  • Corporate sustainability and responsible sourcing
  • Innovation in health and nutrition science

He represents Mars at global forums and employee events, reinforcing the company’s core beliefs of quality, responsibility, and a long-term perspective on business.

Vision for the Future

Weihrauch’s 2025 vision includes:

  • Expanding global pet veterinary networks and AI solutions in diagnostics
  • Broadening health‑nutrition brands internationally, particularly in Asia and Latin America
  • Accelerating sustainability initiatives across sourcing and packaging
  • Strengthening Mars Edge through personalized supplementation and wellness platforms.

Mars Annual Revenue and Net Worth

As of August 2025, Mars is set to have an estimated revenue of over $55 billion, a net worth close to $190 billion. Mars is poised for even greater growth in the next decade. The company’s strength lies in its diversified portfolio, global presence, and science-led innovation across pet health, human nutrition, and consumer wellness.

Mars Annual Revenue and Net Worth

Mars Revenue 2025

Mars, Incorporated is on track to generate approximately $55 billion in global revenue in 2025. This is a 2%–4% increase from its 2024 revenue of $54 billion. Growth is fueled by sustained expansion in the pet care sector, strategic acquisitions in snacking and nutrition, and international performance in emerging markets.

The Kellanova acquisition, expected to finalize in Q4 2025, could push the combined group’s revenue close to $62–63 billion annually by early 2026.

The geographic distribution of revenue looks like this:

  • North America remains the largest market, accounting for nearly 45% of total sales.
  • Europe and the Asia-Pacific continue expanding, especially in pet nutrition and snack segments.
  • Latin America is an emerging growth area, particularly for KIND snacks and veterinary services.

Here are the details of the revenue from different business segments:

Business DivisionEstimated 2025 Revenue
Mars Petcare$23–25 billion
Mars Wrigley$14–15 billion
Mars Food & Nutrition$5–6 billion
Mars Edge~$1 billion
Total (Pre-Kellanova)~$55 billion
Kellanova (to be added late 2025)~$8 billion
Estimated Combined (2026)~$63 billion

Mars Petcare

Mars Petcare remains the company’s largest division. In 2025, it contributes an estimated $23–25 billion in revenue. This includes pet food brands like Pedigree, Whiskas, Royal Canin, Sheba, and IAMS. It also encompasses veterinary health networks like Banfield Pet Hospital, VCA Animal Hospitals, BluePearl, AniCura, and Linnaeus. Growth in this segment is driven by demand for premium pet nutrition, preventive care, and digital veterinary diagnostics.

Mars Wrigley (Confectionery & Snacking)

This segment generates around $14–15 billion annually. Brands include M&M’s, Snickers, Twix, Orbit, Extra, Altoids, and Skittles. In 2025, Mars Wrigley has expanded further into the salty snack market with the acquisition of Kellanova, which owns Pringles, Cheez-It, RXBAR, and Pop-Tarts. These brands will be gradually integrated into Mars Wrigley’s portfolio by late 2025.

Mars Food & Nutrition

This unit contributes approximately $5–6 billion in revenue. It includes consumer food brands such as Ben’s Original, Dolmio, Tasty Bite, Seeds of Change, and KIND. New plant-based offerings, sustainable packaging initiatives, and increased global distribution—particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America—have driven modest but steady growth.

Mars Edge

Mars Edge is the company’s science-focused wellness and nutrition business. In 2025, it generates close to $1 billion in revenue. Key products include CocoaVia (flavanol-based supplements), personalized nutrition technologies, and emerging partnerships with biotech startups. This segment is still in development but positioned for strong long-term growth.

Mars Net Worth and Valuation 2025

As a private company, Mars is not publicly traded, but estimates based on revenue multiples and private market comparables place its enterprise value between $160–190 billion as of August 2025.

This valuation considers its stable cash flow, strong brand portfolio, long-term market position, and the Kellanova acquisition.

Here is a detailed 10-year historical revenue and net worth table for Mars, Incorporated from 2015 to 2025:

YearEstimated Revenue (USD)Estimated Net Worth / Valuation (USD)
2015$33 billion$85 billion
2016$35 billion$90 billion
2017$37 billion$96 billion
2018$38.5 billion$105 billion
2019$40 billion$110 billion
2020$42 billion$115 billion
2021$45 billion$125 billion
2022$47 billion$135 billion
2023$51 billion$150 billion
2024$54 billion$165 billion
2025$55 billion (pre-Kellanova)$170–190 billion (post-acquisition and bond issuance)

Mars Family Wealth

The Mars family remains the sole beneficial owner of Mars, Incorporated. As of August 2025, their collective net worth is estimated to be around $117–120 billion, placing them among the wealthiest families in the world. This estimate includes their private ownership of Mars, along with dividends and private family investments through family offices.

Capital Structure and Cash Flow

  • Mars holds a low-debt, high-cash flow position, despite the Kellanova acquisition.
  • In March 2025, Mars issued $26 billion in bonds to fund part of the Kellanova acquisition and expand its global infrastructure.
  • The company continues to reinvest heavily in R&D, supply chain automation, and sustainable packaging initiatives.

Profitability and Margins

Mars maintains high operating margins, especially in its confectionery and pet nutrition businesses. Gross margins across divisions average between 45–55%, with net margins ranging from 12–15%, depending on the business segment.

Final Thoughts

Mars is no longer just a candy company. Asking what companies does Mars own reveals a giant portfolio spanning pet care, veterinary services, nutrition, and food. Despite being a private company, Mars has built one of the most recognizable and valuable brand ecosystems in the world. With its roots in chocolate, Mars has grown into a global conglomerate with family ownership still at its core.

FAQs

What are all the companies owned by Mars?

Mars owns several major companies and business groups globally. These include:

  • Mars Petcare: Home to pet food brands like Pedigree, Whiskas, Royal Canin, and veterinary hospital networks such as Banfield, VCA, BluePearl, and AniCura.
  • Mars Wrigley: Includes confectionery and gum brands like M&M’s, Snickers, Skittles, Orbit, and Extra.
  • Mars Food & Nutrition: Includes Ben’s Original, Dolmio, Tasty Bite, KIND, and Seeds of Change.
  • Mars Edge: Focuses on personalized nutrition, including CocoaVia and food-tech innovations.
  • Mars Veterinary Health: A vast network of vet clinics and hospitals globally.
  • Kellanova (Acquisition in 2025): Owner of Pringles, Cheez-It, RXBAR, and Pop-Tarts.

What are the major brands owned by Mars?

Major global brands under Mars include:

  • Confectionery: M&M’s, Snickers, Twix, Milky Way, Skittles, Starburst, Orbit, Extra, Altoids, Hubba Bubba.
  • Pet Food: Pedigree, Whiskas, Sheba, Royal Canin, IAMS, Nutro, Eukanuba, Greenies, Temptations.
  • Food Products: Ben’s Original, Dolmio, Tasty Bite, Seeds of Change, Suzi Wan.
  • Healthy Snacks & Nutrition: KIND, CocoaVia, Nature’s Bakery (acquired), and RXBAR (via Kellanova).
  • Beverages and Bars: Mars Drinks, Mars Protein products (UK/Europe).

Is Mars an American company?

Yes, Mars is an American company. It was founded in Tacoma, Washington in 1911 and is currently headquartered in McLean, Virginia, USA. It is one of the largest privately held companies in the United States.

Is Mars a private company?

Yes, Mars is a private and family-owned company. It is not listed on any stock exchange and is fully controlled by the Mars family, which has passed the business down through generations.

Who owns Mars candy company?

The Mars candy company is wholly owned by the Mars family. As of 2025, ownership is distributed among heirs of the founder, including Jacqueline Mars, Victoria Mars, and other family members. They maintain 100% ownership of the company through family trusts and holding structures.

What’s the list of Mars Incorporated products?

Mars Incorporated produces a wide variety of products in different categories:

  • Confectionery: Snickers, M&M’s, Milky Way, Twix, Dove, 3 Musketeers, Bounty.
  • Chewing Gum & Mints: Orbit, Extra, Eclipse, Altoids, 5 Gum.
  • Pet Food: Pedigree, Whiskas, Sheba, IAMS, Nutro, Royal Canin.
  • Veterinary Services: Banfield, VCA, BluePearl, AniCura, Linnaeus.
  • Food Products: Ben’s Original, Dolmio, Seeds of Change, Tasty Bite, Suzi Wan.
  • Snacks & Wellness: KIND, CocoaVia, Nature’s Bakery, and now Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts (via Kellanova).

What companies does Mars own in the USA?

In the United States, Mars owns and operates:

  • Mars Wrigley North America: Candy and gum brands like Snickers, M&M’s, Orbit, and Skittles.
  • Banfield Pet Hospital: Over 1,000 clinics across the U.S.
  • VCA Animal Hospitals: A national veterinary network.
  • BluePearl Veterinary Partners: Specialty and emergency pet care.
  • Mars Petcare US: Pet food production and distribution.
  • Nature’s Bakery: Acquired and operated under Mars Food US.
  • KIND North America: Healthy snack products.
  • Kellanova U.S. division (2025 acquisition): Includes Pringles and Cheez-It.

What are the primary Mars pet food brands?

Mars is one of the world’s largest pet food manufacturers. Key brands include:

  • Pedigree
  • Whiskas
  • Sheba
  • Royal Canin
  • IAMS
  • Nutro
  • Eukanuba
  • Cesar
  • Temptations
  • Greenies
  • Dreamies (UK and EU).

Is Mars 100% family owned?

Yes, Mars is still 100% family-owned in 2025. The Mars family, through private trusts and governance structures, controls the entire business without any external public shareholders.

Is Mars owned by Pepsi?

No, Mars is not owned by Pepsi. Mars and PepsiCo are two separate companies. PepsiCo is a publicly traded beverage and food company, while Mars is a privately held family-owned conglomerate.

Did Mars buy Nestlé?

No, Mars did not buy Nestlé. Nestlé is a Swiss-based multinational food and beverage company. However, Mars has competed closely with Nestlé in the chocolate, pet food, and snack markets. In past years, Mars has acquired certain assets that once competed directly with Nestlé products.

Who owns Skittles?

Skittles is owned by Mars, Incorporated. It is produced and distributed under Mars Wrigley, the division responsible for global confectionery and chewing gum brands.

Who owns Mars?

Mars is entirely owned by the Mars family. It is a privately held company with no public shareholders.

Is Mars a private or public company?

Mars is a private company and has remained family-owned since its founding.

What is the biggest brand owned by Mars?

M&M’s is the most recognizable brand owned by Mars, followed closely by Snickers and Pedigree.

Does Mars own Wrigley?

Yes, Mars acquired Wrigley in 2008, creating one of the largest confectionery companies in the world.

Does Mars own Royal Canin?

Yes, Royal Canin was acquired by Mars in 2001 and operates under its Petcare division.

What veterinary services does Mars own?

Mars owns Banfield Pet Hospital, VCA, BluePearl, and AniCura. These make up Mars Veterinary Health, one of the largest vet care networks in the world.

What is Mars’ annual revenue?

As of 2025, Mars’ estimated annual revenue is around $52 billion.

Who is the current CEO of Mars?

As of 2025, Poul Weihrauch is the CEO of Mars, Incorporated.