Dove Chocolate

Dove chocolate, known globally for its silky smooth texture, has a rich history that began in Chicago. The brand was founded in 1939 by Leo Stefanos, a Greek-American who owned Dove Candies & Ice Cream. It originally started as an ice cream bar dipped in chocolate, designed to provide a safer and cleaner treat for his children. The brand gained significant popularity across the United States for its high-quality ingredients and decadent mouthfeel.

In 1986, the brand was acquired by Mars, Incorporated, a giant in the global confectionery industry. Following the acquisition, Mars expanded the brand internationally, rebranding it as Galaxy in many countries including the United Kingdom, India, and the Middle East, while retaining the Dove name in the United States, China, and several other markets. Today, manufacturing occurs at various Mars production facilities worldwide to meet regional demand.

Ownership remains strictly under Mars, Incorporated, a family-owned multinational corporation. Mars is one of the world's largest food and pet care providers, headquartered in Virginia. The brand continues to be a staple in the premium chocolate segment, famous for its 'Dove Promises'—individually wrapped chocolate squares featuring inspirational messages inside the foil.