John Mars

Chocolatier adding chewables. With family bought gum giant Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co. for $23 billion in April; deal expected to close by end of the year. Merger will create world's largest confectionery company; estimated sales should exceed $27 billion. Grandfather Frank Mars began making chocolates 1911 in his kitchen in Tacoma, Wash. Father, Forrest Sr., invented M&M's, then introduced malt-flavored nougat, became foundation of famous candy-bar line that includes Milky Way, Snickers, 3 Musketeers. Third generation inherited company when dad died 1999. Meticulously researches recipes. Also owns pet food operation (Whiskas, Pedigree), Uncle Ben's Rice.