Morinaga & Co., Ltd., a leading global confectionery manufacturer, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire My/Mochi Ice Cream, the largest mochi ice cream brand in the United States.
The acquisition unites two businesses with strong brand heritage and complementary capabilities. My/Mochi will join Morinaga’s existing portfolio of brands, including HI-CHEW, HI-SOFT and Chargel.
“In welcoming My/Mochi to the Morinaga family, we see a tremendous opportunity to build a sustainable snacking business positioned for future growth,” said Teruhiro (Terry) Kawabe, chief representative for the USA and president and CEO of Morinaga America Inc. “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 U.S.”
Morinaga recently announced plans to expand HI-CHEW production capacity in the U.S. with the opening of its second factory in 2027. The My/Mochi acquisition enables the company to enter the U.S. frozen dessert market at full scale while supporting its 2030 business goals.
According to Circana’s MULO + Conv 2025 data, the U.S. novelty ice cream market reached an estimated $8.6 billion in sales in 2025. My/Mochi achieved $80 million in sales during the latest 52-week period ending Jan. 25, 2026, according to SPINS MULO data.
My/Mochi is known for its premium ice cream wrapped in sweet, pillowy rice dough. The brand was first introduced in Los Angeles in 1993, rooted in Japanese confectionery traditions.
“We are thrilled to partner with Morinaga & Co., Ltd., a globally reputable company, whose scale and research and development capabilities will enhance our ability to innovate and grow,” said Craig Berger, president and CEO of My/Mochi. “We’re looking forward to reaching a broader group of consumers and driving meaningful impact together in the years to come.”
Morinaga’s expertise in frozen confectionery, including popsicles, ice cream bars and sandwich ice cream, will enhance My/Mochi’s product development capabilities. The combined companies will accelerate innovation and unlock new growth opportunities in the frozen snack category.
Upon completion of the acquisition, My/Mochi will become part of Morinaga & Co., Ltd. and will remain headquartered in Los Angeles under the continued leadership of Berger.
My/Mochi is available in more than 20 flavors, including Strawberry, Mango, Cookies & Cream and Cookie Dough, as well as dairy-free flavors and sorbets. All products are soy free, made with cream containing no rBST, no artificial flavors or colors and non-GMO ingredients.
Morinaga America Inc. was established in 2008 as the official distributor of HI-CHEW, HI-SOFT and Chargel in the United States. It is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first modern candy maker and producer of chocolates in Japan.