Candy has been a beloved treat for centuries, with a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. Today, the global candy market is worth billions of dollars, and there are countless companies producing all sorts of sugary delights. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 candy companies in the world based on revenue, innovation, and cultural impact.
10. Mars Inc.
Founded in 1911 by Franklin Clarence Mars, Mars Inc. is a global confectionery company headquartered in McLean, Virginia. It is the largest candy company in the world, with a wide range of popular brands including M&M’s, Skittles, Snickers, and Starburst. Mars Inc. also owns Wrigley, a leading chewing gum company, as well as pet food brands such as Pedigree and Whiskas. In 2020, the company generated over $35 billion in revenue.
9. Mondelez International
Mondelez International is a global snack and confectionery company based in Illinois. It was created in 2012 as a spin-off of Kraft Foods, and its brands include Cadbury, Toblerone, Milka, and Trident gum. In 2020, the company generated over $26 billion in revenue.
8. Nestle
Swiss multinational Nestle is one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies, with a wide range of products including chocolate, coffee, and bottled water. Its candy brands include KitKat, Nerds, and Butterfinger. In 2020, Nestle generated over $21 billion in revenue from its confectionery division.
7. Hershey
Hershey is an American company based in Pennsylvania, known for its chocolate and confectionery products such as Hershey’s Kisses, Reese’s, and Almond Joy. It is the largest chocolate manufacturer in North America and generates over $7.5 billion in annual revenue.
6. Lindt & Sprüngli
Lindt & Sprüngli is a Swiss chocolate company founded in 1845 by David Sprüngli-Schwarz and his son Rudolf Sprüngli-Ammann. It is known for its high-quality chocolate products, including Lindor truffles and Lindt bars. In 2020, the company generated over $4.5 billion in revenue.
5. Ferrero Group
Ferrero Group is an Italian confectionery company founded in 1946 by Pietro Ferrero. It is best known for its Nutella chocolate-hazelnut spread and Tic Tac mints. The company also owns the Kinder and Ferrero Rocher brands. In 2020, Ferrero Group generated over $12.5 billion in revenue.
4. Ghirardelli
Ghirardelli is an American chocolate company based in San Francisco, California. It was founded in 1852 by Italian chocolatier Domingo Ghirardelli, and is known for its high-quality chocolate products, including chocolate bars, baking chips, and chocolate sauces. In 2020, the company generated over $550 million in revenue.
3. Toblerone
Toblerone is a Swiss chocolate company founded in 1908 by Theodor Tobler. It is known for its distinctive triangular chocolate bars, which are made with nougat, almonds, and honey. Toblerone is owned by Mondelez International and generates over $500 million in annual revenue.
2. Cadbury
Cadbury is a British confectionery company founded in 1824 by John Cadbury. It is known for its chocolate products, including Cadbury Dairy Milk, Crunchie, and Roses. In 2020, Cadbury generated over $4 billion in revenue and is now a subsidiary of Mondelez International.
1. Godiva
Godiva is a Belgian chocolatier founded in 1926 by Joseph Draps. It is known for its high-quality chocolate products, including chocolate truffles, chocolate-covered fruit, and chocolate bars. Godiva has a global presence, with stores in over 100 countries and annual revenue of over $500 million.
These are the top 10 candy companies in the world based on revenue, innovation, and cultural impact. From traditional chocolate makers to modern snack companies, these companies have stood the test of time and continue to produce some of the most beloved candy products on the market. Whether you’re a fan of classic chocolate bars or innovative gummy treats, there’s something for everyone among these top candy companies.
