HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. — Mars Chocolate North America has unveiled plans to reinvest $70 million in its U.S. supply chain, building on the company’s earlier commitment to invest $1 billion in U.S manufacturing operations over the past five years. As part of its latest pledge, Mars said it plans to add approximately 250 new jobs to sites across the United States, ensuring that more than 95% of Mars’ chocolate products for the United States are made in this country.
Tracey Massey, president of Mars Chocolate North America |
“Mars believes in the value of keeping our operations in America – it’s good for our people, our business and our consumers," said Tracey Massey, president of Mars Chocolate North America. “This investment will create new American jobs in communities across the country while also enabling us to offer more product innovation, choice and transparency to our consumers.”
Plans include a $55 million investment in the company’s Topeka, Kas., facility to accommodate increased production, including adding a line for Twix candy.
Last year, Mars pledged to commit more than $900 million to its U.S. supply chain on top of its previous $1 billion investment. These investments include:
• Creating 23 jobs through the $4.8 million expansion of the Mars Symbioscience site in Germantown, Md.
• Investing $50 million to expand Wrigley’s Yorkville, Ill., facility, adding Skittles production.
• Continuing to update the Mars Food Greenville, Miss., plant through a $31 million investment that has created more than 25 jobs.
“Our consumers are known for trying new things,” Ms. Massey said. “They are increasingly paying attention to what they eat, but they also want to treat themselves. Our supply chain transformation will allow us to balance consumers’ unique, changing needs while continuing to meet demand for their most beloved products.”