Mars’ €1 Billion EU Investment: A Summary
- Mars plans to invest €1 billion in its EU operations by 2026
- Key focus areas include manufacturing upgrades, sustainability, and product innovation
- €250 million allocated for modernizing its chocolate factory in Poland
- The company has reduced global emissions by 16% while achieving 69% business growth
- This investment supports 24 EU factories and 25,000 direct jobs
Mars, Inc. has unveiled its ambitious plan to invest €1 billion into manufacturing operations throughout the European Union by the end of 2026.
The confectionery leader aims to enhance the region’s manufacturing capabilities, accelerate sustainability initiatives, and foster innovation, ultimately fortifying economic resilience.
This latest investment builds upon the €1.5 billion Mars has already injected into EU manufacturing over the past five years. These funds have been utilized to upgrade facilities, boost production capacity, and hasten efforts to decarbonize its value chain.
According to Mars, these investments bolster the company’s 24 factories located across 10 EU countries and positively impact the 25,000 individuals employed directly. Notably, 85% of Mars products sold in the EU are locally produced, making it a significant export hub for over 100 global markets.
“We take a long-term view,” says Claus Aagaard, CFO of Mars. “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.”
Aagaard further emphasizes that this venture transcends mere growth; it strives to build a “stronger, more resilient business in Europe” that provides heightened innovation for consumers, delivers value to suppliers, and generates lasting, positive effects for surrounding communities.
Highlights of Mars’ EU Investment:
- Modernisation to Meet Consumer Demands: Mars prioritizes the modernization of its manufacturing footprint throughout the EU. The company is investing approximately €250 million into its chocolate factory in Janaszówek, Poland, to implement “state-of-the-art” automation and increase the site’s capacity by 63%.
- Decarbonising the Value Chain for Enhanced Sustainability: Mars has successfully reduced its scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions by over 16% globally since 2015 while achieving business growth of 69%. To sustain this progress, Mars is integrating environmental initiatives across critical stages of its value chain. For instance, its ice cream factory in Steinbourg, France, which produces Snickers, Twix, and Bounty ice cream bars, became the first Mars site globally to be powered entirely by renewable electricity.
- Strengthening Local Partnerships and Economies: Mars has cultivated a long-standing history of collaborating with local partners—from farmers to technology providers—to bolster local economies and support communities. This year alone, the company has invested over €100 million in modernizing and digitizing its industrial sites in France.
Mars Bets Big on Europe
As Mars intensifies its commitment to the EU, this confectionery powerhouse is not only positioning itself as a leader in the food and beverage industry but also as a catalyst for sustainable growth, innovation, and community resilience.
With €1 billion designated for transformative investment, the company reinforces its confidence in the region’s potential—and its essential role in cultivating a future where business success aligns seamlessly with environmental stewardship and local empowerment.
Mars was approached to discuss whether the proposed investment relates to the European Commission’s inquiry into its merger with Kellanova, but a response has yet to be provided.
