Mars, Incorporated is investing £190 million into its historic Slough facility in the UK, facilitating advanced manufacturing, next-generation digital capabilities, sustainability initiatives, and workforce upskilling.
Mars, Incorporated has announced a £190 million investment programme aimed at transforming its long-standing Slough manufacturing site into a next-generation chocolate production hub.
The initiative, which began in 2023 and is set to continue through to 2028, will focus on advanced manufacturing technologies, sustainability upgrades, and workforce development.
The Berkshire facility, originally established in 1932 by Forrest Mars, remains one of the company’s most significant production sites and is recognised as the birthplace of the Mars Bar.
Today, it manufactures several flagship confectionery products, including Galaxy®, Maltesers®, and Snickers®, supplying both the UK market and export destinations such as Ireland and the Netherlands.
Mars’ investment will see the introduction of robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital twin technology to optimise manufacturing processes and improve operational efficiency.
Mars also plans to upgrade cooling infrastructure and energy-efficient utilities as part of broader sustainability ambitions across the site.
Alongside technological improvements, the programme includes a significant focus on workforce upskilling, supporting employees with training in automation, advanced engineering, data analysis, and AI-enabled manufacturing systems.
The Slough facility currently employs more than 1,850 people and continues to play a major role within the local economy and community.
“This investment reflects our confidence in the UK as a hub to manufacture and innovate. In taking a long-term view, we are ensuring our operations remain world-class, competitive and fit for the future.
“Our Slough factory is deeply rooted in our heritage, and as a proud family-owned business, we are committed to investing in a future that creates lasting, positive impact for the communities in which we operate,” says Adam Grant, General Manager, Mars Snacking UKI.
The announcement builds on wider UK investment activity by Mars, which has committed more than £118 million across its snacking, food, and petcare divisions during 2024 and 2025.
The company stated that the latest investment underlines the strategic importance of the UK within its wider manufacturing network.
Commenting on the announcement, Peter Kyle, UK Secretary of State for Business and Trade said, “This £190 million investment by Mars is a strong vote of confidence in the UK as a place to manufacture and innovate. For nearly a century, the Slough factory has produced some of the world’s best-loved brands, and this investment shows global businesses continuing to back British skills, workers and industry.”
The investment builds upon Mars established role in the local community, characterised by volunteering programmes including litter clean-ups, supporting food banks, and the Britwell Youth & Community Project.
The company and its associates have also worked closely with schools across Slough, promoting apprenticeships and offering insightful mentoring and guidance.
“Mars has been part of our community in Slough for almost a century and remains one of our major local employers. It also plays an important role beyond the factory gates – supporting community organisations, volunteering, and helping young people into apprenticeships, comments Tan Dhesi, MP for Slough.
“This £195 million investment is a clear vote of confidence in our local economy and workforce. I welcome the long-term commitment Mars continues to show to our community.”
