Mars to invest $2 billion in U.S. manufacturing
Mars Inc., the iconic maker of M&M’s, Skittles, and Kind bars, is making a bold bet on the future of American manufacturing and consumer demand. The privately held company announced it will invest $2 billion over the next 18 months to build new factories and upgrade existing facilities across the United States, according to the Wall Street Journal.
This investment is in addition to the $6 billion Mars has spent over the past five years, which the company says created 9,000 new U.S. jobs. Today, 94% of all Mars products sold in the country are made domestically—a point the company emphasizes as it deepens its U.S. footprint.
Supporting Growth Across Key Categories
The $2 billion injection will support Mars’ snacking, food, and pet-care divisions. Among the highlights is a new manufacturing facility for Nature’s Bakery in Utah, which Mars acquired in 2020. Similar to the Royal Canin pet-food plant it opened in Ohio earlier this year, the Nature’s Bakery site underscores Mars’ commitment to local production and expansion.
Mars CFO Claus Aagaard said the investment will also modernize older sites through automation and efficiency improvements. “Snacking is a growing category and how consumers snack is continuing to evolve,” Aagaard said. “We’re seeing strong momentum behind brands like Nature’s Bakery and Trü Frü, which tap into that shift.”
Betting on the American Consumer
The company’s aggressive expansion reflects its confidence in the resilience and purchasing power of U.S. shoppers. “We’re convinced about the long-term strength of the American consumer,” Aagaard noted, suggesting that demand for on-the-go, health-conscious, and plant-based snacks is only expected to grow.
Mars’ strategic focus is not just about scaling production—it’s also about keeping pace with evolving consumer tastes. Smaller portions, whole grains, and plant-based ingredients are increasingly shaping the snack aisle, and Mars is aligning its portfolio to match.
A Long-Term Vision
With this latest investment, Mars is reinforcing its long-term commitment to American manufacturing and job creation. As one of the world’s largest family-owned businesses, Mars continues to focus on sustainable growth through strategic acquisitions, innovation, and a deep understanding of consumer behavior.
In a market increasingly driven by convenience and wellness, Mars is positioning itself to stay ahead of trends—while keeping most of its production close to home.
