Infographic Credit: Oxfam International
In today's supermarket aisles, consumers are faced with an unprecedented abundance of choices when it comes to what they put on their plates. The average grocery store in America has over 40,000 different products on its shelves, compared to 7,000 back in the 1990's. Though the choices are never-ending, the number of manufacturers is getting smaller and smaller, and there are certain conglomerates that have managed to establish themselves as undisputed giants. These food titans not only produce some of the world's most iconic brands but also own a slew of other popular labels that might surprise you. Let's take a closer look at the 10 food brands that own other renowned names, showcasing their dominance in the food and beverage industry.
Kellogg's
2022 Revenue: $15.315B
Kellogg's is the top dog when it comes to breakfast cereals like Corn Flakes and Rice Krispies, but many people aren't aware that the company also owns Pringles, Keebler, and Special K, offering a diverse range of snack options.
General Mills
2022 Revenue: $18.993B
General Mills is responsible for some of America's favorite breakfast cereals like Cheerios and Lucky Charms. It also owns Progresso, Nature Valley, and Yoplait, further solidifying its presence in the food industry.
Kraft Heinz
2022 Revenue: $26B
Kraft Heinz is the result of a merger between two giants and is known for its focus on condiments and packaged foods. Alongside its namesake Kraft and Heinz, the company owns Oscar Mayer, Philadelphia Cream Cheese, and Planters.
Danone
2022 Revenue: $29.144B
Danone is a French multinational specializing in dairy products and bottled water. In addition to its eponymous brand, Danone owns Evian, Activia, and Dannon Yogurt, making it a prominent player in the health and wellness sector.
Mondelez
2022 Revenue: $31.496B
Mondelez International, a spin-off of Kraft Foods, boasts an impressive portfolio of snacks and confectionery. While you might recognize it for Oreo and Cadbury, the company also owns Toblerone, Ritz, and Trident gum.
Mars
2022 Revenue: $45B
Mars, Inc. is a privately-owned American multinational with a vast portfolio in both the food and petcare industries. While it's famous for Mars Bars and M&M's, the company also owns Uncle Ben's, Skittles, and Pedigree pet food.
Coca-Cola
2022 Revenue: $43.004B
Known primarily for its iconic soft drink, Coca-Cola, this American beverage giant also owns a plethora of other well-known brands. These include Minute Maid, Honest Tea, Odwalla, and SmartWater, making it a dominant player in the beverage industry.
Unilever
2022 Revenue: $63.293
Unilever, a British-Dutch multinational, has a reputation for producing a wide range of consumer goods. Among its food brands, you'll find Lipton, Hellmann's, and Knorr, as well as Ben & Jerry's ice cream.
PepsiCo
2022 Revenue: $86.93B
PepsiCo, the arch-nemesis of The Coca-Cola Company, has a similarly extensive empire. In addition to Pepsi and Frito-Lay products, it owns Gatorade, Quaker Oats, Tropicana, and Sabra, making it a diversified food powerhouse.
Nestle
2022 Revenue: $99.32B
Nestlé, a Swiss multinational, is one of the largest food companies globally, and its influence stretches across a wide spectrum of products. In addition to its own brands like Nescafé and Kit Kat, Nestlé owns Nesquik, Häagen-Dazs, and Gerber, among many others.
The food industry is a dynamic and competitive arena, and these 10 food giants have risen to the top by not only creating beloved brands but also by strategically acquiring others. Their diverse portfolios cover everything from snacks and beverages to dairy and condiments, making them an integral part of our daily lives. While they may seem like standalone companies, understanding their web of ownership reveals just how intertwined the food world can be.
