Mars, Incorporated plans to invest AUD 200 million into its Australian manufacturing operations by the end of 2027, expanding production capacity, supporting sustainability goals, and strengthening local supply chains across the country.
The company said the investment will support innovation, renewable energy ambitions, and advanced manufacturing across its Australian factory network. Mars also confirmed that more than 90% of the products it sells in Australia are produced locally.
The announcement comes as major FMCG manufacturers continue increasing regional production investments to improve supply-chain resilience and reduce operational risk across the wider Australia supermarket and Australia FMCG sector.
What is Mars investing in?
Mars said the investment will focus on expanding manufacturing capacity, improving operational efficiency, and supporting sustainability initiatives across its Australian operations.
A major part of the expansion includes the company’s Wodonga pet food factory in Victoria. In June 2026, Mars plans to commission a new AUD 112.5 million wet pouch facility at the site.
The company said the expansion will create more than 60 new jobs and support digitally enabled manufacturing systems, including AI-supported production technologies.
Mars has already invested more than AUD 450 million across its Australian manufacturing operations since 2020.
At a glance
- Mars plans to invest AUD 200 million in Australia by 2027
- More than 90% of Mars products sold in Australia are locally made
- New Wodonga facility will open in June 2026
- Expansion includes AI-enabled manufacturing systems
- Mars operates seven factories across Australia
- Company employs around 2,400 workers in Australia
- Mars acquired Kellanova in December 2025
Why does the investment matter?
The investment highlights how global FMCG manufacturers are increasing local production capacity as retailers demand stronger supply-chain stability, faster replenishment, and lower operational disruption.
Manufacturing investment has become increasingly important for supermarket suppliers as inflation pressures, freight costs, and geopolitical uncertainty continue affecting global sourcing models.
Mars said the investment will also support renewable energy ambitions and lower-carbon manufacturing operations across its Australian footprint.
The announcement also reflects growing investment in petcare manufacturing, which remains one of the fastest-growing supermarket categories globally.
Where does Mars manufacture in Australia?
Mars operates factories in:
- Wodonga
- Ballarat
- Wacol
- Asquith
- Bathurst
- Wyong
- Botany
The Botany cereal factory became part of the Mars Australia network following the company’s acquisition of Kellanova in late 2025.
The company’s Australian portfolio includes brands across confectionery, pet food, sauces, and grocery products.
What happens next?
The investment program is expected to continue through 2027 as Mars expands manufacturing capability and sustainability infrastructure across Australia.
The move could also increase pressure on other major FMCG suppliers to accelerate factory modernization and regional production investment as supermarket retailers push for stronger local sourcing and operational resilience.
Advanced manufacturing systems, automation, and AI-enabled production are also expected to become increasingly important across the wider Australia supermarket supply chain over the next several years.
