Business & Tech
Mars Family of McLean Ranked Third Wealthiest Family in the Country by Forbes
Mars family comes in second behind Walton, Koch families.
The third-wealthiest family in the nation lives in McLean or at least their company is headquartered here.
The Mars family, founders of the world's largest candy company, are ranked as the third wealthiest family in the nation, according to a new ranking by Forbes magazine.
The siblings who run the private company are Jacqueline, Forrest E. Mars, Jr. and John Mars. Forbes estimates their worth at $60 billion.
Their grandfather Frank invented the Milky Way candy bar and started the company; their father Forrest Sr., launched M&Ms in 1941, continuing its success.
The family-owned company also includes Snickers, 3 Musketeers, Starburst and Skittles, Wrigley Gum, Altoids and Lifesavers. The company sells more than candy. It also includes rice, dog food, cat food, coffee, ice cream and more.
The company headquarters moved to McLean in 1984.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
