Mars expands U.S. footprint with US$450M Royal Canin facility in Ohio

USA – Mars, Incorporated has officially opened a US$450 million Royal Canin® manufacturing facility in Lewisburg, Ohio, its largest dry pet food factory in the world. 

The new 450,000-square-foot facility marks a significant milestone in Mars’ US$6 billion investment in U.S.-based manufacturing over the past five years and will create up to 270 full-time jobs in the region.

The factory, which will produce enough dry pet food to feed four million pets annually, represents Mars’ continued commitment to the American market and its growing pet care business. 

Royal Canin, the Mars division behind the investment, is a global leader in pet health nutrition and its largest brand by revenue.

Poul Weihrauch, CEO of Mars, emphasised the long-term vision behind the project: “Our latest investment in Ohio is an important milestone in Mars’ ongoing commitment to U.S.-based manufacturing. Over the last five years, we invested over US$6 billion in the U.S., and we plan to continue to grow our ability to supply the domestic market.”

The Lewisburg facility is designed with advanced, standardised systems already proven across Royal Canin’s global network. 

It will manufacture the full range of the company’s dry kibble portfolio for the region, helping meet increasing demand for tailored pet nutrition.

The facility has also earned Silver LEED certification, underscoring its sustainable design.

The decision to build in Lewisburg reflects Ohio’s appeal as a business-friendly state with a strong workforce.

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine welcomed the announcement, saying, “The decision by Royal Canin and parent company Mars to locate in Ohio represents a significant vote of confidence in Ohio’s business environment, our talented, highly trained workforce, and our outstanding quality of life.”

A commitment to science and pets

Founded in 1968 by French veterinarian Dr. Jean Cathary, Royal Canin continues to develop its science-based approach to pet nutrition by collaborating with breeders, veterinarians, and pet professionals. 

The new plant aligns with this mission by expanding capacity to meet North America’s evolving pet nutrition needs.

Daryn Brown, Regional President of Royal Canin North America, stated, “The investment made into our Lewisburg site continues to represent the growth of the pet nutrition industry and the evolving needs of our pets and their owners. We’re proud to expand and scale our capabilities and continue deepening our roots in Lewisburg and Preble County.”

Driving digital pet health innovation

In a parallel development, Mars also announced a global rollout of AI-powered digital tools for pet health monitoring, reinforcing its broader vision for “A Better World for Pets.” 

Among them is the GREENIES™ Canine Dental Check, the first artificial intelligence tool enabling pet parents to assess their dog’s dental health using just a smartphone photo.

Available now in the U.S., the tool is trained on over 53,000 images and provides instant analysis of tartar buildup and gum health, along with follow-up guidance through PETconnect by GREENIES™, which links users to licensed veterinary technicians.

Ikdeep Singh, Global President of Mars Pet Nutrition, said, “GREENIES™ Canine Dental Check is just the beginning. We’re bringing together our iconic brands and unmatched expertise to give pet parents better tools to care for their pets every day.”

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