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Mars Inc. to Invest €1 Billion in EU Manufacturing

In an exciting development, Mars, Incorporated, a stalwart in the confectionery and pet care industries, has revealed plans to invest €1 billion in its operations across the European Union by the end of 2026. This initiative aims to bolster the region's manufacturing strength while enhancing sustainability and innovation.

Having established a strong foundation in Europe over the past 90 years, Mars operates 24 factories in 10 EU countries, employing around 25,000 individuals and exporting products to more than 100 markets. The company’s commitment to the EU is evident, as approximately 85% of its products sold in the region are produced locally, highlighting the importance of European manufacturing in Mars's global strategy.

Investment Focus Areas

This new investment follows a substantial commitment of over €1.5 billion in the last five years towards manufacturing in the EU. The funds will be strategically allocated to modernizing facilities, expanding production capacities, and accelerating initiatives aimed at reducing carbon footprints within the value chain. Claus Aagaard, CFO of Mars, articulated the company's long-term vision, emphasizing that this investment is not just about growth but also about reinforcing the business’s resilience and sustainability.

Modernizing Manufacturing

A key aim of Mars's investment is the modernization of its manufacturing footprint. The company plans to upgrade existing facilities to improve efficiency and product quality while driving innovation. Notable projects include a €250 million investment in the chocolate factory located in Janaszówek, Poland, which will enhance automation and increase capacity by 63%. This facility, celebrating its 30th anniversary this month, is pivotal to Mars's growth strategy in the region and reflects the company’s focus on consumer-driven innovations such as new packaging technologies and gum formats.

Sustainable Practices

In alignment with global sustainability goals, Mars has successfully reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by over 16% since 2015 while achieving significant business growth. The company aims to continue decoupling its growth from environmental impacts by integrating sustainability initiatives throughout its supply chain. An exemplary case is the ice cream factory in Steinbourg, France, which has become a pioneer within the Mars network by transitioning to 100% renewable energy. Similarly, the pet nutrition facility in Lithuania has adopted advanced production technologies powered by renewable sources, further showcasing Mars’s commitment to eco-friendly practices.

Strengthening Local Economies

Mars’s investment is not solely focused on manufacturing enhancements; it also seeks to strengthen local economies by fostering partnerships with local farmers, suppliers, and technology providers. An example of this commitment is a recent allocation of over €100 million aimed at modernizing and digitizing its industrial sites in France, which promises to bolster local employment while supporting Mars's Net Zero ambitions. This investment underscores Mars's dedication to creating a positive impact on communities and local economies across the EU.

Conclusion

As Mars prepares for this significant investment phase, the company continues to demonstrate its commitment to Europe. By fostering innovation, enhancing manufacturing capabilities, and prioritizing sustainability, Mars is set to reinforce its role as a leader in the industry – all while contributing positively to the economies and communities it serves throughout the EU. This ambitious initiative encapsulates Mars's vision of long-term growth that not only benefits consumers but also supports a resilient and sustainable future.

For further inquiries or statements, you can reach out to Julie Lovell, Regional Corporate Affairs Director at Mars Wrigley via email or phone. Their initiatives not only promise to reshape the landscape of manufacturing in Europe but also reflect a broader commitment towards a more sustainable future.