$80 Million Brand Fuels Morinaga’s Frozen Ambitions (Image Credits: Pexels)
Irvine, California — Morinaga & Co., Ltd. entered into a definitive agreement to acquire My/Mochi Ice Cream, the top mochi ice cream brand in the United States, bolstering its push into the frozen snacks arena.[1][2]
$80 Million Brand Fuels Morinaga’s Frozen Ambitions
My/Mochi posted $80 million in sales over the 52 weeks ending January 25, 2026, according to SPINS MULO data. This performance solidified its dominance in the mochi ice cream niche. The acquisition positions Morinaga to tap directly into this momentum.[1]
Executives highlighted the union’s potential right away. Teruhiro Kawabe, president and CEO of Morinaga America, Inc., described it as a chance to construct a lasting snacking enterprise. The move aligns with Morinaga’s broader vision for sustainable expansion in key markets.[1]
Centuries-Old Legacy Meets Modern Innovation
Morinaga & Co., Ltd. traces its roots to 1899, when it became Japan’s pioneering modern candy producer. The company now operates Morinaga America, Inc., launched in 2008 to distribute popular lines like HI-CHEW, HI-SOFT, and Chargel. A manufacturing site in North Carolina has run since 2015, with plans for a second U.S. factory in 2027.[1]
My/Mochi emerged in the 1990s from Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo, blending Japanese baking traditions with American flair. A Japanese baker and entrepreneur created the brand, offering premium ice cream enveloped in soft rice dough. Today, it distributes nationwide through major retailers, emphasizing clean ingredients like rBST-free cream and non-GMO components.[2]
Available flavors capture wide appeal:
- Strawberry
- Mango
- Cookies & Cream
- Cookie Dough
- Dairy-free options and sorbets
Synergies Promise Accelerated Growth
The deal creates complementary strengths across product development, marketing, and distribution. Morinaga brings expertise in frozen confections such as popsicles, ice cream bars, and chocolate-coated treats. My/Mochi gains access to enhanced R&D scale.[1]
Craig Berger, president and CEO of My/Mochi, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. He noted Morinaga’s global reputation would boost innovation and consumer reach. Post-acquisition, My/Mochi stays headquartered in Los Angeles under Berger’s leadership as a wholly owned subsidiary.[1]
This structure preserves the brand’s heritage while unlocking new opportunities in frozen snacks.
Timing Aligns with Surging Market Demand
The U.S. novelty ice cream sector hit $8.6 billion in sales for 2025, based on Circana data. Frozen treats rank among the fastest-growing snacking segments. Demand surges for multi-textural, globally inspired options, especially among younger shoppers.[1][2]
Asian and ethnic foods in grocery aisles expanded nearly four times faster than total sales in 2024. Mochi ice cream fits this trend perfectly, combining creamy centers with chewy exteriors. Morinaga views the U.S. as a core growth hub, tying the acquisition to its 2030 objectives.[2]
Key Takeaways:
- My/Mochi leads with $80 million in recent sales and 20+ flavors.
- Morinaga adds frozen desserts to HI-CHEW-driven portfolio.
- Targets $8.6 billion market amid rising Asian snack trends.
Morinaga’s acquisition of My/Mochi signals a calculated step toward dominating innovative snacking. Consumers stand to gain from fresher flavors and broader availability. What do you think of this matchup? Share your thoughts in the comments.
