Japanese firm Morinaga extends US influence with My/Mochi acquisition

Japanese founded confectionery group Morinaga has confirmed an agreement to buy My/Mochi Ice Cream which is believed to be the largest brand in the category within the US, writes Neill Barston.

The deal, for an undisclosed fee, further strengthen’s the company’s presence in the region, as the business continues to drive its operations in the territory through expanding its complete snacking portfolio.

Furthermore, as the business noted, it recently revealed plans to extend its Hi-Chew brand production capacity in the US with the opening of its second factory in 2027.  

According to latest data from Circana, the US novelty ice cream market has demonstrated steady expansion in recent years, reaching an estimated $8.6 billion in sales in 2025.

With the US being one of Morinaga’s priority global growth regions, this acquisition enables the company to enter the U.S. frozen dessert market at full scale, while supporting 2030 Morinaga business goals and beyond.

As the company observed, My/Mochi is known for its multi-textural sensation of cool, creamy premium ice cream wrapped in sweet, pillowy rice dough. Rooted in Japanese confectionery traditions and first introduced in Los Angeles in 1993, the brand has transformed this heritage into a modern, playful snacking experience enjoyed by millions.

According to the latest 52-week SPINS MULO data ending January 25, 2026, My/Mochi achieved $80 million in sales, reinforcing its position as the category leader in mochi ice cream.

aTeruhiro (Terry) Kawabe, Chief Representative for the USA & President & CEO of Morinaga America, Inc commented: “In welcoming My/Mochi to the Morinaga family, we see a tremendous opportunity to build a sustainable snacking business positioned for future growth,” 

“We will honor the heritage and innovation behind My/Mochi while combining the strengths of our brands to bring even more fun and excitement to consumers and customers across the US.”