John Franklyn Mars (born October 15, 1935) is an American businessman and heir to the Mars, Incorporated fortune. He serves as chairman of Mars, Inc., one of the world's largest privately held food companies, known for brands like M&M's, Snickers, and Pedigree pet food. As of November 2023, the Bloomberg Billionaires Index estimated his net worth at $46.4 billion, making him the 24th-richest person in the world, tied with his sister Jacqueline Mars.
Early Life and Education
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| Born | October 15, 1935 (age 89) Arlington, Virginia, U.S. |
| Education | Yale University (BA) |
| Occupations | Chairman, Mars, Inc. |
| Spouse | Adrienne Bevis (m. 1958) |
| Children | 3 |
| Parents | Forrest Mars, Sr. (1904–1999) Audrey Mars (1910–1989) |
| Relatives | Frank C. Mars (grandfather) Forrest Mars, Jr. (brother) Jacqueline Mars (sister) |
John Mars was born on October 15, 1935, to Audrey Ruth (Meyer) and Forrest Mars Sr. His grandfather, Frank C. Mars, founded Mars, Inc., the global confectionery and pet food empire. He grew up immersed in the family business legacy.
Mars graduated from the Hotchkiss School in Lakeville, Connecticut, in 1953. He then attended Yale University, where he completed his studies before joining the family business.
Career
John Mars has played a key role in the expansion and success of Mars, Inc., helping transform it into one of the most successful privately owned businesses globally. His leadership helped the company diversify beyond confectionery into pet care and food manufacturing.
Financial Milestones
- 2010: Estimated net worth of $10 billion, ranking 52nd globally and 26th in the U.S. (Forbes).
- 2012: Net worth rose to $20.1 billion, ranking 30th globally.
- 2015: Ranked 28th in the Hurun Global Rich List with $26 billion.
- 2016: Wealth increased to $29 billion, making him the 19th-richest person globally.
- 2023: Net worth reached $46.4 billion, placing him 24th worldwide (Bloomberg).
Business Moves
In January 2017, John Mars oversaw the acquisition of VCA, Inc., a leading pet care company, for $7.7 billion. This move strengthened Mars, Inc.'s presence in the pet care industry, which already included brands like Pedigree and Whiskas.
Personal Life
John Mars married Adrienne Bevis in June 1958. The couple has three children:
- Linda Anne Mars (born May 23, 1960)
- Frank Edward Mars (born March 13, 1963)
- Michael John Mars (born November 22, 1967)
The family has kept a low public profile, consistent with the Mars family's tradition of privacy. Mars previously resided in Fairfax County, Virginia, but currently lives in Jackson, Wyoming.
Privacy and Media
Mars has been notably private, often avoiding media appearances. From 2010 to 2014, he was the highest-ranked billionaire on Forbes' list without a publicly available photograph.
Honors and Recognition
In March 2015, Queen Elizabeth II awarded John Mars an honorary knighthood (KBE) at Windsor Castle. This recognition honored his contributions to the UK economy through Mars, Inc.’s extensive operations and job creation within the region.
Philanthropy
The Mars family has a history of charitable giving, particularly in areas related to education, environmental conservation, and health. However, John Mars's specific philanthropic activities remain largely private, aligning with the family's discreet approach to wealth management.
Legacy and Influence
John Mars has significantly shaped Mars, Inc.’s growth and diversification while maintaining the family’s preference for privacy and private ownership. His leadership and long-term vision have cemented the company's position as a global powerhouse in both the food and pet care industries.
References
- A, M.Z. (2024) John Mars, Pewaris Mars Yang jarang tampil Dan Masuk top 30 Orang Terkaya Dunia, John Mars, Pewaris Mars yang Jarang Tampil dan Masuk Top 30 Orang Terkaya Dunia - Portal Bontang. Available at: https://www.portalbontang.com/news/37684723/john-mars-pewaris-mars-yang-jarang-tampil-dan-masuk-top-30-orang-terkaya-dunia (Accessed: 09 January 2025).
- John Franklyn Mars Net Worth: How he became a billionaire? (2023) TMC Assam. Available at: https://tmcassam.org/web-stories/john-franklyn-mars-net-worth-how-he-became-a-billionaire/ (Accessed: 09 January 2025).
- Staff (2017) Hard Times: LV billionaires take a beating in Forbes Magazine’s current list, Journal. Available at: https://www.reviewjournal.com/business/hard-times-lv-billionaires-take-a-beating-in-forbes-magazines-current-list/ (Accessed: 09 January 2025).
