Mars goes far on a sweet mission

Food company wants to invest for next 50 years, or even 100 years, says its chief

It is one of the largest food companies in the world with about $33 billion in sales, but one that has always managed to stay under the radar. Despite the low profile, most of Mars, Inc's brands are household names, be it the Mars or M&M's chocolate, Wrigley's gum or its range of petcare products.

Grant Reid, the president and CEO of Mars, Inc, believes that China is still the sweet spot in the company's long-term plans, despite the slowing economy.