Mars announced the company will soon break ground on a new, best-in-class, global research and development hub adjacent to the company’s existing Global Innovation Centre on Goose Island. With this expanded capability, Chicago will become the largest innovation hub in the world for Mars Wrigley, adding to its network of global innovation centers. When complete, the innovation hub will inspire the next generation of new products to support the company’s iconic global snacks and treats brands such as M&M’S®, SNICKERS®, TWIX®, and more.
“Mars has made Chicago home to innovation for nearly 100 years, producing some of the world’s most beloved and iconic snacks and treats,” said Chris Rowe, Global Vice President of Research and Development, Mars Wrigley. “Creating new jobs and a world-class, multimillion- dollar research and development hub demonstrates our ongoing commitment to the Chicagoland area and accelerates our future for innovation. This facility brings exciting new capabilities and enhances the vibrant innovation culture Mars has on Goose Island.”
“Chicago is ever-growing and emerging as a leader in innovation and technology,” said Chicago Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot. “Mars is the latest among many companies who are recognizing our city’s strengths and unmatched talent and expanding operations here. I thank Mars and its leadership for their longstanding commitment to our city and wish them success in this latest expansion.”
The investment will bring about thirty (30) additional jobs to the Mars Wrigley Global Innovation Center, which will bring the Mars campus total to nearly 1,000 jobs on Goose Island. Construction aims to begin this summer and is slated to be complete by summer 2023.
“On behalf of Chicago’s business community, we congratulate Mars on its expansion in Chicago, creating both new jobs and the largest innovation center in Mars Wrigley’s global footprint,” said Michael Fassnacht, President & CEO, World Business Chicago, Chief Marketing Officer, City of Chicago. “It’s a proud moment for our city to see one of its longest running Chicago-based companies realize transformative change through tech and innovation. May this growth and expansion by Mars serve as an example to the world of Chicago’s many competitive advantages.”
Read more of this article in our latest edition here: March 2022 Single Issue form – International Confectionery Magazine (in-confectionery.com)
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Editor, International Confectionery
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