Mars commits US$1.18B to strengthen EU manufacturing, innovation by 2026

BELGIUM – Mars, Incorporated has unveiled plans to invest €1 billion (US$1.18B) across its European Union operations by the end of 2026, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable manufacturing, consumer-driven innovation, and economic resilience throughout the region.

The investment aims to modernize and expand Mars’s manufacturing facilities to meet evolving consumer needs while enhancing sustainability and economic resilience.

With a legacy spanning over 90 years in Europe, Mars operates 24 factories across 10 EU countries and employs more than 25,000 people.

The new investment builds on the €1.5 billion Mars has already invested in EU manufacturing over the past five years, modernizing facilities and expanding production capacity.

Claus Aagaard, Chief Financial Officer of Mars, emphasized the strategic importance of the region: “We take a long-term view, we believe in Europe, and we would like to see more growth for the benefit of consumers in the EU economies. Our investments are designed to keep our operations world-class, competitive and aligned with the EU’s long-term priorities.”

Key highlights of the investment include:

Manufacturing Modernization:

Mars will upgrade its facilities to enhance efficiency and product quality.

This includes a €250 million (US$295.99M) investment in its Janaszówek chocolate factory in Poland, which will increase site capacity by 63% and introduce state-of-the-art automation.

Sustainability Initiatives:

Mars is embedding environmental goals across its value chain. Its ice cream factory in Steinbourg, France, home to Snickers, Twix, and Bounty ice cream bars, has become the company’s first fossil-fuel-free site, powered entirely by renewable electricity.

Similarly, its pet nutrition facility in Lithuania now runs a pouch production line using 100% renewable energy.

Innovation in Packaging and Formats:

The company is rolling out new packaging technologies, such as recyclable WHISKAS pouches, and launching novel gum formats under brands like EXTRA and ORBIT Refreshers.

Mars also continues to address agricultural emissions through its US$47 million Moo’ving Dairy Forward Plan, which aims to reduce methane emissions across multiple EU member states.

With 85% of Mars products sold in the EU produced locally, the region remains a vital export hub to over 100 global markets.

This billion-euro commitment signals Mars’ intent to build a more resilient, innovative, and environmentally responsible business in Europe.

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