The idea reportedly came after Mars observed soldiers eating chocolates covered in a protective sugar shell during the Spanish Civil War. The coating helped prevent melting, inspiring him to develop a similar candy. Murrie, whose father was an executive at Hershey, helped secure the chocolate supplies needed to bring the idea to life.
During World War II, M&M’s became popular among American soldiers because they were convenient to carry and less likely to melt in warm conditions. After the war, the candy reached ordinary households and quickly gained popularity. New varieties, colorful packaging, and memorable advertising helped turn M&M’s into an international sensation.
Although Murrie eventually left the partnership, the candy kept its original name. Today, millions enjoy M&M’s without realizing that the famous letters preserve the story of two men whose business collaboration began more than eight decades ago. What started as a practical solution became one of the most successful candy brands in history.
