Global Top 100 Candy Companies Demonstrate Resilience in 2026

Mondelēz International tops the list again, while Mars' snacking business surges and industry navigates tariffs and other challenges.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 3:10pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a carefully arranged composition of premium, polished objects representing the global candy industry, such as a cocoa pod, a shiny chocolate bar, and a gleaming candy wrapper, all set against a clean, monochromatic background and dramatically lit to convey a sense of corporate strategy, finance, and market trends.Resilient and innovative, the global candy industry navigated a challenging 2025 with investments, acquisitions, and a relentless focus on consumer trends.Chicago Today

The global confectionery industry saw a volatile 2025, with tariffs, supply chain issues, and other obstacles, but ultimately ended the year on a positive note. Mondelēz International retained its top spot on the Global Top 100 candy companies list, while Mars' snacking division saw significant growth. The industry also saw several major acquisitions, rebrands, and facility investments as companies adapted to the changing landscape.

Why it matters

The candy and confectionery industry is a bellwether for consumer trends and economic conditions. This report provides insights into how leading global brands navigated a challenging year, highlighting their resilience and ability to innovate in the face of disruption.

The details

Key developments in 2025 included Mars' acquisition of snack brand Kellanova, Godiva's rebranding ahead of its 100th anniversary, the return of the Certs brand, and investments by companies like Kraft Heinz and Mondelēz in their manufacturing facilities. The industry also grappled with high cocoa prices and the lingering impact of tariffs, though some relief came late in the year.

  • In January, Hershey announced the retirement of its CEO and the search for a successor.
  • In March, Brazilian confectioner Docile revealed its first-ever president.
  • In April, Pladis (parent of Godiva) welcomed a new leader for its U.S. operations.
  • In May, Kraft Heinz invested $3 billion to increase efficiency at 30 of its plants.
  • In November, the U.S. president announced the removal of tariffs on several agricultural products, including cocoa.

The players

Mondelēz International

The top-ranked candy company on the Global Top 100 list, with $38.5 billion in revenue.

Mars

The second-largest candy company, with its snacking business generating approximately $36 billion in annual revenues.

Hershey

Announced the retirement of its CEO, Michele Buck, and the search for her successor in January 2025.

Godiva

Launched a new packaging identity ahead of its 100th anniversary in November 2025.

Certs

The classic breath mint brand was relaunched in 2025 under a licensed partnership.

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What they’re saying

“There's something special about reviving a brand that people still remember decades later. We're not just bringing it back—we're building it to last.”

— Mark Freedman, Owner of Certs

“Maeve isn't just a new name; it's a new energy. We're bringing excitement to chocolate in a way that feels fresh, imaginative, and fun. We have always believed that a little treat can have a big impact, and with Maeve, we're making that impact bigger than ever.”

— Ellie Thompson, Maeve Brand Manager and Daughter of Owner and CEO Jean Thompson

“Americans today are making their purchase decisions with greater intention, and chocolate and candy continue to earn their place in the basket. The confectionery industry consistently delivers products that consumers know and love while introducing new innovations that shape how people choose to enjoy and share treats. No matter the occasion, confectionery brings people together.”

— John Downs, President and CEO, National Confectioners Association

What’s next

The industry will be closely watching cocoa prices in the year ahead, hoping for a decline after a period of high costs. Companies will also continue to invest in innovation, facility upgrades, and strategic acquisitions to drive growth.

The takeaway

Despite the challenges of 2025, the global confectionery industry demonstrated its resilience, with leading brands adapting to changing consumer preferences, supply chain disruptions, and economic conditions. The industry's ability to innovate, expand distribution, and revive classic brands highlights its enduring appeal and importance to consumers worldwide.