Mars invests $200m to boost its local manufacturing capacity
Minister for Industry and Innovation Tim Ayres was in Ballarat on 5 May 2026 as Mars revealed plans to invest $200 million in its Australian manufacturing operations by the end of 2027. The new investment will boost the food manufacturer’s production capacity in Australia with an expansion at its pet food factory, including a completely new facility that will use advanced manufacturing capabilities and renewable energy.
“Mars has a long history manufacturing in Australia and I’m delighted to see this $200 million investment to continue improving their Asquith, Bathurst, Wyong, Ballarat, Wacol and Wodonga facilities,” Ayres said.
In June 2026, Mars will commission the new expansion of its Wodonga pet food factory, opening a new $112.5 million wet pouch facility. The digitally enabled facility allows the food manufacturer to advance its sovereign operational efficiencies using the latest AI-enabled manufacturing capabilities.
“We are proud of the role our Australian manufacturing sites play across our operations, and this investment strengthens that commitment for the long term. Our teams continue to lead the way in quality, innovation and sustainability, and this next phase of investment ensures we can keep delivering the trusted products Australians rely on every day,” said Managing Director and General Manager of Mars Petcare ANZ, Melodie Nye.
The first Mars pet nutrition factory was built in 1967 in the Victorian regional town of Wodonga, where it continues to operate today. The company’s Australian manufacturing footprint also includes Asquith, Bathurst and Wyong in New South Wales, Ballarat in Victoria and Wacol in Queensland. Following the acquisition of Kellanova by Mars in December 2025, the Kellogg’s cereal factory in Botany (NSW) also now forms part of the Mars Australia footprint.
“This latest investment demonstrates the belief of Mars in the future of Australian manufacturing and the positive impact it has on the communities where we operate,” Nye said. “When we invest locally, we create jobs, deepen capability and help regional economies thrive, delivering long‑term value for people, pets and the planet.”
Originally published here.
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