Insights-backed innovations

Across the Mars portfolio, there are several new offerings that deliver on evolving consumer preferences, from heightened demand for better-for-you options, to Gen Z’s affinity for adventurous textures and formats, and chocolate’s continued reign around seasonal moments, the company says. At booth 5202, Mars will showcase a range of its latest innovations, including: 

• Starburst Goodies: The new Starburst gummies are plant-based with 4 g of sugar per serving and made with real fruit juice.
• M&M’s Peanut Butter & Jelly: The latest iteration of the M&M’s Peanut Butter portfolio features berry flavored bite-sized chocolate treats with a smooth peanut butter center.
• Skittles Pop'd Original & Sour: The new Skittles innovations tap into the freeze-dried candy trend, featuring an crunchy, crispy way to enjoy the fruity Skittles Original and new Sour flavors.
• Snickers Pecan: A twist on the original Snickers bar, featuring a blend of caramel, nougat, and milk chocolate, complemented by pecans. 
• Snickers Shapes: Snickers Shapes feature Snickers' same roasted peanuts, creamy caramel, smooth nougat, and milk chocolate, but in festive seasonal shapes to celebrate Easter and other holidays.

Leaning into stretched seasons

Consumers are using festive treats and the traditions around them as a way to extend the joy of seasons, Mars says. This includes microseasons and new moments for celebration, such as Summerween and Augtober—early Halloween festivities that emerged across social media last year. 

Seasonal moments are a key driver in how and when consumers plan, shop, and treat themselves. With celebrations starting earlier and lasting longer, there is even more opportunity to engage shoppers and grow baskets, the company notes.

Mars is on the current Candy Industry “Global Top 100 Candy Companies” list. Click here to view the current “Global Top 100” rankings.