Mars invests US$133M in Canada to expand pet nutrition capacity and efficiency

CANADA – Mars Incorporated has completed an investment of CAD180 million (US$133 million) across its Ontario manufacturing network, with a significant share directed toward expanding pet nutrition production capacity, improving efficiency and advancing sustainability in pet food operations.

The investment, implemented between 2022 and 2026, covers four facilities in Bolton, Guelph and Newmarket, strengthening Mars’ pet care and pet nutrition footprint in a market where demand for premium pet food and treats continues to grow.

More than CAD100 million (US$74 million) was allocated to major packaging and production upgrades, aimed at increasing throughput, improving reliability and enabling new product formats tailored to evolving pet owner preferences.

A key focus of the investment is Mars’ pet care segment, particularly at its Bolton and Guelph facilities.

At the Bolton site, Mars invested CAD86 million (US$63 million) to expand its pet nutrition operations, resulting in a 50% increase in production capacity for TEMPTATIONS™ pet treats. 

The upgrade also reduced water use by 15% and cut gas and electricity consumption by 13%, reflecting a push toward more resource-efficient production.

“As we mark 40 years of operations in Bolton, producing trusted brands like PEDIGREE®, TEMPTATIONS™ and WHISKAS®, this investment underscores our commitment to Canadian manufacturing and innovation,” said Romain Dumas, General Manager, Mars Pet Nutrition Canada.

At Royal Canin’s Guelph facility, a CAD39 million (US$29 million) investment increased production capacity by 12%, while reducing thermal and electrical energy use, supporting the production of specialised and premium pet diets.

“By investing in manufacturing here in Canada, we’re strengthening the resilience of our operations while unlocking new opportunities for our pet owners,” said Rob Lunn, General Manager, Royal Canin Canada.

Efficiency, sustainability and product innovation

Beyond capacity expansion, the upgrades introduce advanced automation, improved safety systems and enhanced traceability, enabling more precise and consistent production of pet food products.

The focus on packaging line transformation also reflects changing market dynamics, with demand shifting toward convenience formats, portion control, and premiumisation in pet nutrition.

Mars said the improvements will support long-term operational performance while reducing environmental impact across its manufacturing network.

Mars’ expanded manufacturing capacity in Canada signals continued confidence in the pet nutrition category, particularly in value-added and premium segments.

By scaling production, improving efficiency and investing in sustainability, the company is positioning itself to meet rising demand while maintaining cost control and product quality.

For the broader feed and pet food industry, the move highlights ongoing investment in processing, formulation and delivery systems, reinforcing the importance of innovation and scale in meeting the evolving needs of pet owners.

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