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Mars has announced plans to invest €1 billion across its European Union operations by the end of 2026.

This substantial investment reflects Mars' ongoing presence in the EU market, where it operates 24 factories across ten countries and employs approximately 25,000 people, making the region an important part of its global operations.

This investment builds on the €1.5 billion that Mars has invested in EU manufacturing over the past five years, reflecting a strategic focus on sustainability, economic resilience and consumer-driven innovation.

The company aims to modernise its facilities, improve production efficiency and embed environmentally friendly practices throughout its value chain.

Modernising manufacturing facilities: Mars plans to undertake significant upgrades to its production capabilities, with a noteworthy €250 million earmarked for its chocolate factory in Janaszówek, Poland.

This project will introduce state-of-the-art automation technologies and increase production capacity by 63%. The facility, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this month, is central to Mars' growth ambitions in the region and will play a critical role in meeting the rising consumer demand for high-quality chocolate products.

Innovations in packaging, such as recyclable pouches for brands like Whiskas pet food, will also be prioritised to align with consumer preferences for sustainable options.

Decarbonising operations: As part of its commitment to sustainability, Mars is focusing on reducing its greenhouse gas emissions across all operations.

The company has achieved a 16% reduction in scope 1, 2 and 3 emissions since 2015. Key initiatives include transitioning its ice cream factory in Steinbourg, France, to operate entirely on renewable electricity, making it the first Mars site globally to be fossil-fuel-free.

Additionally, Mars has implemented a state-of-the-art pouch production line at its pet nutrition facility in Lithuania, powered solely by renewable energy.

The Moo’ving Dairy Forward Plan, with an investment of $47 million, aims to reduce methane emissions in agriculture, addressing a critical environmental challenge across multiple EU member states, including the Netherlands.

Strengthening local economies: Mars has a long history of collaborating with local partners, from farmers to technology providers, to bolster local economies and support community development.

The company has committed over €100 million to modernise and digitise its industrial sites in France, enhancing local employment opportunities while advancing its Net Zero ambitions.

By investing in local suppliers and fostering innovation, Mars aims to create a positive impact in the communities where it operates, reinforcing its role as a responsible corporate citizen.

Claus Aagaard, CFO of 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.”

He highlighted that this investment is not merely about financial growth but about building a stronger, more resilient business that delivers meaningful innovation to consumers and value to thousands of European suppliers.

Mars' investment comes at a time when the food and beverage industry is increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation. With 85% of the products sold in the EU produced locally, Mars is well-positioned to leverage this investment to enhance operational efficiency and drive product innovation in a rapidly evolving market.

Mars' investment in Europe parallels its recent announcement of a $2 billion investment in its manufacturing footprint in the United States by the end of 2026.

This initiative highlights the company's commitment to local production, with 94% of its US products manufactured domestically. Mars has previously invested $6 billion over the past five years to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities across the US.