Who Makes Maltesers

Maltesers are one of the most popular chocolate treats in the UK, instantly recognisable for their bright red packaging and unique light-as-air crunch. Whether you are rolling them into the cinema aisle, mixing them into ice cream or enjoying a quiet handful with a cup of tea, Maltesers are a firm favourite across generations. But who exactly makes them? Who is behind this iconic snack that has stood the test of time, adapted to modern tastes and still managed to keep its unmistakable character?

The Origins of Maltesers

Maltesers were first introduced in 1937, originally marketed as a lighter way to enjoy chocolate. The concept was a honeycomb-style malted centre, surrounded by milk chocolate, which gave a pleasing crunch without feeling too heavy. The name comes from the word “malt” blended with “teasers” to reflect their malt flavour and playful texture. They were initially aimed at women as a low-calorie alternative to traditional sweets, though that messaging has long since changed.

Who Owns and Manufactures Maltesers

Maltesers are made by Mars Incorporated, one of the largest privately owned food companies in the world. Mars is an American company, but its UK branch has a long and proud history of confectionery production. In fact, Maltesers are one of several classic British favourites under the Mars UK umbrella, alongside other well-known names like Galaxy, Minstrels and Revels. The Mars factory in Slough is where much of the UK’s Maltesers are made, and it has been a central hub for the brand for decades.

Mars and the World of Chocolate

Mars Incorporated is more than just a chocolate maker. The company produces a wide range of food products, from confectionery to pet food. But in the world of chocolate, its reputation is enormous. Alongside Maltesers, Mars also makes Snickers, Twix, M&M’s and the Mars Bar itself. The company is known for its consistency in quality and for keeping its original recipes close to the chest. The recipe for Maltesers has changed very little over the years, maintaining its trademark texture and sweet, malty flavour.

Are Maltesers a British Invention

While Mars is an American company, Maltesers are very much a British creation. They were developed and launched in the UK, and to this day remain one of the most distinctly British chocolate products on the market. The UK is still one of the largest consumers of Maltesers globally, and the brand remains especially popular in Commonwealth countries where British-style sweets are beloved. Although you can now find Maltesers in many parts of the world, including Australia, Canada and parts of Europe, they retain that original UK identity.

Maltesers in Modern Times

Over the years, Maltesers have expanded beyond the classic ball shape into a variety of new formats. There are Maltesers Buttons, Maltesers Truffles, chocolate bars, hot chocolate powders and even ice cream cones. Each of these is made by or under licence from Mars, and they all aim to keep that signature malt flavour and chocolate coating that fans expect. Despite all the variations, the original Maltesers remain the most popular and are often considered a go-to chocolate snack for all ages.

Final Thoughts

So, who makes Maltesers? The answer is Mars Incorporated, with most of the UK production taking place in Slough, where the chocolate treat was first brought to life. Although Mars is a global company, Maltesers are proudly British in origin and remain one of the most cherished confections in the UK. Whether you have grown up with them, rediscovered them as an adult or simply enjoy the satisfying crunch, Maltesers continue to bring joy to sweet lovers thanks to the company that has produced them for nearly a century.