Hi-Chew Owner to Buy My/Mochi Ice Cream

Why It Matters

The acquisition marks a strategic push by a Japanese confectioner into a high‑growth, culturally resonant segment of the U.S. snack landscape, reshaping competition and innovation potential.

Key Takeaways

• Morinaga acquires My/Mochi, entering US frozen‑dessert market
• My/Mochi generated $80 million sales FY ending Jan 2025
• Gen Z drives demand for multi‑textural, globally‑inspired snacks
• Asian aisle sales grew fourfold faster than overall grocery sales
• Morinaga plans second US factory by 2027 to scale production

Pulse Analysis

Morinaga & Co.’s purchase of My/Mochi reflects a broader trend of Asian confectioners seeking scale in the United States. By adding a brand that already commands $80 million in annual revenue, Morinaga accelerates its transition from a candy‑focused portfolio, anchored by Hi‑Chew, to a diversified snacking powerhouse. The acquisition also aligns with the company’s roadmap to double its U.S. manufacturing capacity, with a second plant slated for 2027, positioning it to meet rising demand for frozen treats while leveraging existing distribution channels.

Mochi ice cream has evolved from a niche novelty into a mainstream snack, driven largely by Gen Z’s appetite for multi‑textural experiences and globally inspired flavors. Brands like My/Mochi have capitalized on this shift, pairing traditional Japanese ingredients such as green tea with familiar Western tastes like chocolate, thereby widening appeal. Market data underscores the momentum: the Asian/ethnic aisle in U.S. grocery stores grew nearly four times faster than overall sales in 2024, signaling strong consumer openness to hybrid products that blend healthful perceptions with indulgent formats.

Looking ahead, Morinaga can exploit synergies between its existing product lines—popsicles, ice‑cream bars, and confectionery—to innovate within the frozen‑dessert category. Potential extensions include ice‑cream sandwiches, premium flavor collaborations, and cross‑branding with Hi‑Chew. This strategic move not only diversifies Morinaga’s revenue streams but also intensifies competition among major snack manufacturers vying for the lucrative Gen Z and Gen Alpha segments, ultimately reshaping the U.S. frozen‑snack market landscape.