Mars invests €1bn to to upgrade its EU food manufacturing operations by 2026

Mars has announced a €1 billion investment in its European Union (EU) operations, aiming to strengthen its manufacturing base, boost sustainability programmes, and drive innovation across its food portfolio by the end of 2026.

The company, which operates 24 factories in 10 EU countries and employs 25,000 people, said the investment will enhance economic resilience while supporting local communities.

Around 85 percent of Mars products sold in the EU are already produced locally, with the region acting as an export hub to more than 100 markets worldwide.

Claus Aagaard, CFO for Mars, said:

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.

For Mars, this is about more than just growth. It’s also about building a stronger, more resilient business in Europe – one that delivers more innovation to consumers, delivers value for thousands of our European suppliers, and creates lasting, positive impacts in the communities where we operate.”

This commitment builds on more than €1.5 billion Mars has already invested in EU manufacturing over the past five years, modernising facilities, expanding capacity and advancing decarbonisation efforts.

Earlier this year, the company pledged $2 billion to its US operations, underscoring Mars’ global growth and sustainability strategy.

Investment plans

A major focus of the investment will be upgrading production sites to increase efficiency and drive consumer-led innovation. For instance, in Poland, Mars is spending €250 million between 2023 and 2027 on its Janaszówek chocolate factory, introducing advanced automation and boosting output by 63 percent as the site celebrates its 30th anniversary. Upgrades also include new packaging technologies such as WHISKAS recyclable pouches and fresh gum formats like EXTRA/ORBIT Refreshers.

Sustainability is equally central to the strategy. Since 2015, the company has reduced scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas emissions by more than 16 percent while growing 69 percent. Its Steinbourg ice cream factory in France, home to Snickers, Twix and Bounty ice cream bars, became the first Mars site globally to operate entirely on renewable electricity. In Lithuania, its pet nutrition facility has introduced a renewable-powered pouch line. Meanwhile, the $47 million Moo’ving Dairy Forward Plan is helping farmers across multiple EU countries reduce methane emissions.

The investment also strengthens local partnerships and economies. In France, Mars has committed over €100 million this year to modernise and digitise industrial sites, supporting jobs, local suppliers, and advancing its Net Zero agenda.