Mars Wrigley has commissioned a new sugar-free gum production line at its Athi River plant in Kenya, investing an additional KES 4.3 billion (US$33 million) as part of a broader regional manufacturing strategy.
The latest investment brings the confectionery company’s total capital commitment in Kenya to KES 13.4 billion (US$103 million) over the past decade. This expansion marks a shift from reliance on Mars Wrigley’s Polish plant, enabling localized production of Orbit and Extra sugar-free gum brands for Sub-Saharan Africa and Arabic-speaking markets in the Middle East.
The new facility will increase the plant’s reach from six to 15 countries, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Libya, Lebanon, the UAE, and others. The shift is expected to reduce lead times, lower import dependency, and improve cost efficiency across these export corridors.
“This decision signals our confidence in Kenya’s potential as a regional hub,” said Ismael Bello, General Manager for Mars Wrigley in Sub-Saharan Africa.
The upgraded line integrates automated machinery and supports a 10% increase in staffing. The site already produces sugared gum brands such as P.K., Juicy Fruit, and Big G, while Orbit and Extra were previously fully imported.
Mars Wrigley will also introduce more affordable single-unit gum packs retailing at KES 5, alongside existing larger formats.
Kenya Investment Authority CEO John Mwendwa noted that the expansion underscores Kenya’s capacity to serve as a continental supply hub, citing the country’s trade positioning and logistics advantages.
Susan Burns, Chargé d’Affaires at the U.S. Embassy, welcomed the move, stating it reflects strong investor confidence in Kenya’s manufacturing and export potential.
Mars Wrigley’s Athi River facility now supports over 3,500 direct and indirect jobs and is expected to drive further local employment and regional distribution.