Mars Wrigley Australia has invested $6.5 million in its Asquith gum and mints factory that will increase output capacity by more than 60 per cent.
The upgrade includes new packaging technology that will eliminate around 13 tonnes of soft plastics annually, in line with the company’s sustainability goals.
Daniel Firth, Plant Manager at Mars Wrigley Australia, said this investment provides significant additional capacity to deliver the products its customers love and enjoy.
“In addition, our engineers and packaging technologist have been able to deploy new technology to remove around 2,200 kilometres of soft-plastic wrap per year, which is consistent with our goal of reducing the amount of plastic packaging we use.”
The Asquith site, which employs 190 people, will now manufacture more of Mars Wrigley’s popular sugar-free Extra gum bottle flavours locally, including Spearmint, White Spearmint, Intense Mint, Peppermint, White Peppermint, White Bubblemint and Strawberry.
Michael Ryan, General Manager of Mars Wrigley, described the Asquith facility as a key part of the company’s local operations.
“The Asquith site is an incredibly important part of our business and Mars’ history in Australia. Australia has always played an incredibly important role for Mars globally, which is reflected in our rich history and track record of continued investment.”
“Our gum and mints business is an important part of our portfolio and one that consistently performs well. This investment signifies our continued belief in the growth potential of the category, and also our belief in local manufacturing and the economic health and prosperity of our communities.”
Mars Wrigley has operated in Australia since 1915 and has maintained production at the Asquith site since 1958. The factory produces all locally made Mars Wrigley gum and mints for the Australian market, including brands such as Extra, Eclipse, PK and Juicy Fruit.
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