Mars Chocolate North America announced M&M'S® Brand Snack Mix was named the 2013 Product of the Year in the candy and snacks category by Product of the Year USA. The brand accepted the award during a special ceremony in New York City last evening.
M&M'S Brand Snack Mix features three core varieties:
- M&M'S Brand Milk Chocolate Candies Snack Mix includes M&M'S Brand Milk Chocolate Candies, mini chocolate chip cookies, peanuts and mini pretzel twists.
- M&M'S Brand Dark Chocolate Candies Snack Mix features M&M'S Brand Dark Chocolate Candies, raisins, almonds and mini pretzel twists.
- M&M'S Brand Peanut Chocolate Candies Snack Mix includes M&M'S Brand Peanut Chocolate Candies, mini shortbread cookies, almonds and mini pretzel twists.
"Product of the Year recognition is especially sweet since it's decided by consumers," Roy Benin, chief consumer officer, Mars Chocolate North America said in a prepared statement. "We think it's a great addition to our product line-up as it satisfies those looking for a creamy, crunchy, sweet and salty snack, all in one bag."
Hosted in 32 countries, Product of the Year is one of the world's largest consumer-voted programs that recognizes innovation in consumer-packaged goods. Finalists for Product of the Year were judged on four key elements: appeal of innovation, usage, satisfaction and purchase intent. M&M'S Brand Snack Mix was selected winner of the candy and snacks category by securing high marks across the board, particularly in satisfaction. Consumers cited the combination of roasted peanuts, oven-baked mini cookies and golden pretzel twists as the perfect sweet and salty addition to any party, according to the company.
This marks the fifth year that Product of the Year was conducted in the U.S., with over 50,000 American shoppers voting on products in a survey conducted by TNS, a large custom research agency.