Franklin Clarence Mars

Franklin Clarence Mars, student

Milky Way Farm Manor House

Mars-Lakewood-20100912

Franklin Clarence Mars (September 24, 1883 – April 8, 1934) was an American business magnate who founded the Mars, Incorporated, a company that has become one of the largest confectionery manufacturers in the world. Born in Hancock, Michigan, Mars was afflicted with polio in his childhood, which left him unable to walk. He was homeschooled by his mother, who taught him how to hand-dip chocolate as part of his education. This skill would lay the foundation for his future success in the confectionery industry.

Early Life

Franklin Clarence Mars was born to Franklin and Ethel Mars in the small town of Hancock, Michigan. His early life was marked by his struggle with polio, which significantly impacted his mobility and led to him being educated at home. During this time, his mother introduced him to the art of candy making, which sparked his interest in confectionery.

Career

In 1911, Mars started his own candy business in Tacoma, Washington, but it was not successful. Undeterred, he moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, and founded Mar-O-Bar Co. in 1920, which later became Mars, Incorporated. The company's first major success was the Milky Way bar, which was introduced in 1923. The Milky Way bar was inspired by a popular malted milkshake of the time, and its success helped to establish Mars, Incorporated as a major player in the confectionery industry.

Mars continued to innovate and expand his company's product line, introducing other popular candies such as the Snickers bar in 1930 and the 3 Musketeers bar in 1932. These products were not only popular in the United States but also gained popularity internationally, helping to establish Mars, Incorporated as a global brand.

Personal Life

Franklin Clarence Mars was married to Ethel V. Mars, and together they had a son, Forrest Mars, Sr. Forrest Mars, Sr. would later play a significant role in the expansion and success of Mars, Incorporated, particularly in developing the M&M's brand and expanding the company's operations internationally.

Legacy

Franklin Clarence Mars passed away on April 8, 1934, but his legacy lives on through Mars, Incorporated, which remains a family-owned business and one of the largest confectionery manufacturers in the world. The company's commitment to innovation and quality, principles that were important to Mars, has helped it to continue to grow and succeed decades after its founder's death.

Mars's contributions to the confectionery industry and his success in building a global brand have made him a significant figure in the history of American business. His story is also a testament to the impact that determination and innovation can have on overcoming personal challenges and achieving business success.

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