Forrest E. Mars, Jr., Businessman and Philanthropist, Passes Away at 84 - Seite 2

All funeral arrangements are being handled privately.

Background 

Forrest E. Mars, Jr. dedicated himself to building Mars, Incorporated as a principles-led business that creates mutual benefits for all stakeholders.

Mr. Mars began his career in 1955 as a certified public accountant, working as an auditor for Price Waterhouse after serving in the United States Army for two years. He joined Mars, Incorporated - then, a business of less than $100 million in revenue - as a Financial Staff Officer for M&M's Candies in 1959.

Two years later, Mr. Mars was appointed General Manager of a new confectionery factory to be built in Veghel, Netherlands, beginning a journey that would take the winning portfolio of Mars products to new geographies, expanding Mars' presence globally. Beginning with five Associates, he oversaw construction of what is now one of the largest chocolate factories in the world. He managed the factory until 1966, when he moved with his family to Neuilly-sur-Seine, outside of Paris, to become Managing Director of Mars France.

During Mr. Mars' four-year tenure in Paris, the company expanded its pet food business through the 1967 acquisition of Unisabi, creating a strong foundation for future growth in France, which continued well into the 21st century with the 2002 acquisition of Royal Canin. Today, across more than 20 sites in France, Mars provides direct employment for thousands of Associates in Petcare, Chocolate, Food, Drinks and Wrigley and touches the lives of thousands more in its operating communities.

Mr. Mars moved to McLean, Va., in 1970 to assume responsibility for the company's confectionery operations as Group Vice President. In McLean, Mr. Mars worked alongside his brother, John, also a Group Vice President, who managed the company's pet food, vending and money systems operations. Eventually, the two brothers took joint responsibility for all company functions; and, in 1975, they became co-presidents of Mars, Incorporated. At that time, the company's net sales were just over $1 billion. Over the course of their leadership they continued to expand - opening new markets, launching new brands and expanding the extended family of Mars Associates.