M&M’s are one of those treats almost everyone recognizes instantly—small, colorful, and impossible to eat just one. But behind their bright candy shells lies a story filled with innovation, clever strategy, and even a bit of family tension.

Most people enjoy them without a second thought. Few realize the name itself tells a story.

Where It All Began

The origins of M&M’s go back to the late 1930s, during a time of both opportunity and uncertainty.

Forrest E. Mars Sr., the son of Mars Company founder Frank C. Mars, had left the family business after a disagreement. Determined to succeed on his own, he began exploring new ideas.

During a trip to Europe, Mars noticed something fascinating: soldiers were eating small chocolate pellets coated in a hard sugar shell. The coating prevented the chocolate from melting—a simple but brilliant solution for warm conditions.

That observation sparked an idea that would eventually change the candy industry.

A Strategic Partnership

Turning the idea into reality wasn’t easy. With World War II approaching, ingredients like chocolate and sugar were becoming scarce. Mars needed a reliable supply—and quickly.

So he partnered with Bruce Murrie, whose father was a key executive at Hershey Chocolate Company.

This partnership ensured access to chocolate—and gave birth to the name:

M&M’s = Mars & Murrie