Last updated 2 months ago | Originally Published: November 3, 2024
The candy bar industry in America is massive, contributing to the nearly $200 billion global valuation of the candy market in 2024. Despite fluctuating consumer preferences and the ever-growing range of flavors and limited edition products, especially during the holidays, certain brands have consistently led the market in sales, showing strong brand loyalty and popularity across the country.
As one year ends, the competition tightens as brands like Snickers, Reese’s, and Toblerone, among others, get competitive as they all seek to appeal to new and loyal customers, especially around the holiday season when limited-edition releases spark additional national interest. That said, here’s the breakdown of the nation’s best candy bars according to the latest available statistics, which we confirmed with our data and couldn’t agree more!
1. Snickers
Leading the candy bar pack with $457 million in sales, Snickers holds the top spot with its classic mix of nougat, caramel, peanuts, and chocolate. This iconic combination has made Snickers the #1 go-to for millions of Americans year after year. The brand’s consistency and innovative seasonal versions make it a year-round favorite, proving that Snickers is the best candy bar in the USA and the best-selling!
2. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups
Following closely behind Snickers with $421 million in sales revenue, Reese’s signature combination of peanut butter and milk chocolate has built a dedicated fan base spanning many generations and counting! Reese’s limited-edition seasonal shapes and flavor variations keep the brand new and appealing, especially during holiday releases, which only boosts its popularity. This consistent demand shows why Reese’s is America’s 2nd best-selling candy bar!
3. M&M’s
Achieving $409 million in sales, M&M remains a top choice in the candy bar aisle despite not being a traditional candy bar; nonetheless, they’re home in the candy bar category. Therefore, we couldn’t have a list of best-selling candy bars without the mention of this iconic candy brand. Thanks to its strong marketing strategies and team, M&M is one of the world’s most well-known and beloved candies. With over 400 million pieces made daily, this ranking is confirmed.
4. Hershey’s Bar
Checking in as the 4th best-selling candy bar in America, Hershey’s classic milk chocolate bar remains an all-American favorite with over $284 million in sales revenue! Its simplicity and familiar taste have kept it relevant for over a century, even in a market saturated with new flavors and combinations! Known as one of the oldest chocolate bars in the US, Hershey’s has stood the test of time, cementing its place as a best-seller through tradition and nostalgia.
5. Kit Kat
With over $216 million in sales, Kit Kat’s signature wafer layers and creamy chocolate coating have carved out a loyal following in the USA and beyond. For decades, the brand’s slogan, “Have a break, have a Kit Kat,” has resonated with customers, especially among Americans, making it a popular choice for a quick, shareable, ‘break better’ candy bar! Kit Kat’s seasonal flavors and limited-edition releases also attract consumers and candy stores, too!
6. Twix
Racking up more than $192 million in sales, Twix stands out with its unique combination of biscuit, caramel, and chocolate. They offer a candy bar, unlike all the others on our list or in the world, for that matter! The ‘Left Twix vs. Right Twix’ campaign has always added a playful aspect that resonates with fans, while holiday variations keep it in high demand. Twix’s distinctive layers and texture secure its sixth-place spot among the nation’s top candy bars.
7. Milky Way
Owning 7th place as one of America’s best-selling candy bars, Milky Way enjoyed over $156 million in sales revenue in 2024, making this chocolate, nougat, caramel-filled candy bar one of the best-selling in the USA. Often seen as a milder option compared to chunkier, nuttier candy bars, Milky Way’s out-of-this-world flavor has allowed this brand to position itself as a top-choice candy brand, showcasing its enduring popularity among American consumers.
8. 3 Musketeers
Taking the #8 spot with more than $157 million in sales, 3 Musketeers is loved for its light, whipped nougat center and chocolate coating, making it one of the fluffiest, tastiest options among all candy bars. Its straightforward appeal and unique texture have certainly made this brand the 8th best-selling candy bar in America! Perfect just the way it is, 3 Musketeers doesn’t generally come in other variants, proving that “if it’s not broken, then it doesn’t need to be fixed.”
9. Toblerone
As the only international brand to make the list of best-selling candy bars in America, Toblerone offers a flair of Swiss chocolate to the US market, generating over $135 million in sales! Known for its distinctive triangular shape and honey-almond nougat, Toblerone’s premium feel attracts consumers looking for a more refined chocolate experience. Often chosen as a gift or holiday candy, Toblerone has firmly established itself as an American favorite!
10. Almond Joy
With over $120 million in sales, Almond Joy combines coconut, almonds, and chocolate to provide a tropical twist that appeals to a specific segment of candy bar lovers. Its unique blend stands out in a sea of caramel and nougat options, making it a popular choice for those looking for something different. Almond Joy’s steady demand shows that its fan base remains loyal. Owning 10th place on our list, this candy bar has stood the test of time and continues to be relevant in today’s market; the numbers don’t lie!
Hershey’s vs. Mars: America’s Favorite Candy Bar Maker
In total US candy bar sales based on the brands listed, Mars, Inc. takes the lead with $1.37 billion from its top brands—Snickers, M&M’s, Twix, Milky Way, and 3 Musketeers! Meanwhile, The Hershey Company follows with $1.04 billion in combined sales from Reese’s, Hershey’s Bar, Kit Kat, and Almond Joy. This data establishes Mars as America’s top candy bar maker, demonstrating its extensive hold on the US candy bar market. However, as of 2024, The Hershey Company reported over $11 billion in sales revenue compared to $45 billion by MARS, Inc. Therefore, it may be safe to say that Hershey’s & MARS are the top two best-selling candy brands in the United States!
What’s Your Favorite Candy Bar?
Based on American opinion and sales data, our list reveals the nation’s best-selling candy bars—but we know everyone has their own go-to, and we’d love to hear yours! From timeless classics to unforgettable memories, there’s a story behind every favorite. So, sound off in the comments below to share your favorite candy bar of all time! As a thank-you for joining the conversation, we’ll send you a 10% OFF discount code for your next purchase!
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