Mars, Incorporated is marking America’s 250th anniversary by appearing in a new documentary series exploring the country’s business heritage, cultural influence and continuing spirit of innovation.
The family-owned manufacturer is featured in the America 250 series, produced in partnership with Acumen Media and distributed through USA TODAY. The documentary examines Mars’ development from a small confectionery business into an international company operating across the snacking, food and petcare sectors.
Mars began in 1911, when founder Frank C. Mars started producing and selling confectionery from his kitchen in Tacoma, Washington. The company now owns more than 130 brands and employs over 80,000 people across the US.
The Documentary
Its documentary segment features contributions from Anton Vincent, president of Mars Snacking North America and Global Ice Cream, alongside Mars museum curator Theresa McCulla.
The programme explores the company’s role in American consumer culture and showcases historical items from the Mars archive, including an original M&M’S cardboard tube dating from 1941 and an early Pringles can from 1968.
It also highlights how Mars has continued to expand and adapt its portfolio in response to changing consumer preferences. Recent acquisitions, including Kellanova, Nature’s Bakery and TRÜ FRÜ, have strengthened the company’s presence in areas such as savoury snacks, breakfast products and better-for-you snacking.
Mars currently operates 53 manufacturing plants, research laboratories and offices in the US, alongside more than 2,000 veterinary clinics and hospitals. According to the company, 94% of the Mars products sold in the country are manufactured domestically.
“As we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, we are celebrating more than just our heritage — we are celebrating our future,” said Vincent.
Mars is also supporting the anniversary through several confectionery and community initiatives. These include participation in the National Confectioners Association’s Sweet Land of Liberty campaign, which recognises the contribution of chocolate and candy to American culture and the economy.
The company is additionally supporting Civic Season, a youth-focused programme designed to encourage civic participation, and the Heritage Chocolate Society’s Mars, Inc. History Tellers Award.
Mars said the documentary reflects both its 115-year history and its continued investment in manufacturing, research, innovation and supply-chain resilience.
