Claus Aagaard on Mars €1bn Investment to Strengthen European Manufacturing and Innovation
In an exclusive Financial Times piece on 18 September 2025, Mars announced plans to invest €1 billion in its European operations by the end of 2026, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the region. Claus Aagaard, CFO of Mars Incorporated, spoke to the FT about what this means.
The article highlights how Mars will modernise and expand its European factories, including upgrades to its chocolate factory in Poland, while pushing forward decarbonisation and sustainability efforts. A key focus will be cutting agricultural emissions in markets like the Netherlands, supporting Mars’ goal of greener, more sustainable supply chains.
Claus Aagaard said: “We are committed to investing in Europe, driving innovation, and supporting consumer growth—which ultimately fuels broader economic growth.”
The FT also mentioned Mars’s proposed $35.9 billion acquisition of Kellanova, currently under review by the European Commission. Together with the investment, this shows Mars’ ambition to strengthen its global snacking portfolio and build a resilient business for the future.
Read the full announcement in the Financial Times here.
