Mars Achieves Major Milestone in European Manufacturing, Switching 10 Sites to 100% Renewable Energy

Strategic Insights -

As part of its efforts to decarbonize its value chain and meet its goal of net zero by 2050, Mars has successfully transitioned 10 confectionery manufacturing sites across Europe to 100% renewable energy. This move is part of a N1.5 billion investment in the company's European manufacturing network over the last five years. Mars has also committed an additional N1 billion investment by the end of 2026 to boost manufacturing and innovation across all its EU facilities.

Key Takeaways:

  • Mars has invested N1.5 billion in its European manufacturing network over the last five years to modernize facilities, increase production capacity, and accelerate decarbonization efforts.
  • The company has transitioned 10 confectionery manufacturing sites across Europe to 100% renewable energy, with a further 10 sites expected to follow suit by 2026.
  • Mars has purchased Guarantees of Origin certificates for the remaining renewable electricity and biomethane equivalent to the amount of electricity and natural gas used in the company's direct operations for confectionery in Europe.
  • The 10 sites now fully powered by renewables are located in Czech Republic, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, and the UK, collectively producing 900,000 tonnes of snacks annually for leading brands such as Snickers, Orbit, and M&Ms.
  • 85% of the snacks produced are consumed locally in the region, reducing transportation emissions.
  • Mars aims to achieve net zero by 2050, with a global journey that includes reducing greenhouse gas emissions from its operations, supply chain, and products.
  • The company has a significant presence in Europe, operating 24 factories across 10 EU countries, employing 25,000 people, and exporting to over 100 markets.

Statistics:

  • N1.5 billion: Investment in Mars' European manufacturing network over the last five years
  • 10: Number of confectionery manufacturing sites transitioned to 100% renewable energy
  • 900,000 tonnes: Annual snack production from the 10 renewable-powered sites
  • 85%: Percentage of snacks consumed locally in the region
  • 2050: Mars' target for achieving net zero
  • N1 billion: Additional investment to boost manufacturing and innovation across all EU facilities by the end of 2026

Sources:

  • https://www.foodmanufacture.co.uk/Article/2022/04/08/Which-food-firm-is-switching-to-renewable-energy/#:~:text=Mars%20Wrigley%20has%20announced%20that,of%20CO2%20a%20year.&text=Florence%20Mouls%20%E2%80%93%20vice%20president%20for,factory%20in%20the%20Mars%20Group.