Mars has announced a €1bn investment to upgrade its EU food manufacturing operations by 2026. The ambitious plan focuses on modernising factories, boosting sustainability, and driving consumer-led innovation across its food portfolio. With this move, Mars strengthens its European manufacturing base and reaffirms its commitment to long-term growth.
The company currently operates 24 factories across 10 EU countries and employs 25,000 people. Notably, 85 percent of products sold in the EU are already produced locally. The region also acts as an export hub, supplying more than 100 global markets. Therefore, this investment not only enhances operations but also reinforces support for local communities.
Claus Aagaard, CFO for Mars, emphasised the company’s long-term vision. He stated that the investment ensures world-class competitiveness while aligning with EU economic priorities. He added that it creates greater value for suppliers and delivers lasting benefits to communities.
This latest commitment builds on more than €1.5bn already invested in EU manufacturing over the past five years. Previous projects expanded production capacity, modernised sites, and advanced decarbonisation. Earlier in 2025, Mars also pledged $2bn to its US operations, underlining its global growth and sustainability strategy.
A significant share of the new funding will modernise production facilities. In Poland, Mars is investing €250m between 2023 and 2027 to transform its Janaszówek chocolate factory. Advanced automation will increase output by 63 percent while supporting innovation in product lines. The factory will also see new packaging technologies, including recyclable WHISKAS pouches and fresh gum formats like EXTRA Refreshers.
Sustainability remains central to the strategy. Since 2015, Mars has cut scope 1, 2, and 3 greenhouse gas emissions by more than 16 percent, even as the business grew by 69 percent. Its Steinbourg ice cream factory in France became the first Mars site worldwide powered entirely by renewable electricity. In Lithuania, a pet nutrition facility has added a renewable-powered pouch line, showing steady progress.
The €47m Moo’ving Dairy Forward Plan further demonstrates Mars’ focus on sustainable farming. The initiative helps farmers in multiple EU countries reduce methane emissions, supporting the company’s Net Zero journey.
In France, Mars has committed over €100m this year to modernise and digitise industrial sites. These upgrades not only secure jobs and strengthen local supply chains but also advance the company’s sustainability goals.
By 2026, Mars’ €1bn investment will reshape EU food manufacturing. With modernised facilities, renewable energy adoption, and strong community partnerships, the company is setting a new benchmark for resilience and innovation in the sector.
Magazine
info@luminarytimes.com
+1-8308642693
