Bruce Murrie held a 20% stake in the new candy
Forrest Mars controlled the remaining 80%
This partnership ensured access to critical wartime ingredients like sugar and chocolate — something difficult to secure during rationing.
After the war, Murrie stepped back — but his influence remains baked into the brand.
Because every time you say “M&M’s”…
You’re really saying:
“Thank you, Mars and Murrie.”
How M&M’s Evolved Over Time
From military rations to pop culture icons — M&M’s have come a long way.
Key Milestones:
1941
First introduced to U.S. soldiers
1948
Released to the general public
1954
Peanut M&M’s hit shelves
1960s–70s
Colorful characters like the Red and Yellow mascots appear
1990s
New flavors, holiday editions, and mini versions
Today
M&M’s are a global brand with countless variations and collectible editions
Even the colors changed over the decades — including the infamous vote in 1995 to bring back tan M&M’s after public demand.
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