Mars to establish Twix chocolate production line in Egypt

US-headquartered confectionery giant Mars has broken ground on a EGP580m ($82m) production line for Twix chocolate bars in Egypt, in order to cater to the Middle East and African markets.

The new manufacturing facility, which is located at the company’s existing factory in 6th of October City, is the company’s first Twix production line in the country.

It will export over 70% of its production to the Middle East, and Africa, positioning Egypt as a key regional export hub for Mars.

Mars North Africa and Levant general manager Karim Chabara said that this expansion brings the company’s investment in Egypt to more than $200m.

"The new production line is part of a strategic investment plan that will allow us to continue to deliver quality products to our consumers," Chabara added.

Mars stated that the company’s growth in the region, which has been driven by the Egyptian market, coupled with its expansion plan has allowed it to create hundreds of direct jobs and thousands more indirect jobs.

The company plans to source the majority of its raw materials from Egypt, which is expected to create a multiplier effect in terms of job creation.

Mars North Africa and Levant Human Resources director Amira El Shabrawy said that developing and nurturing Egyptian talent is an important priority for Mars.

"We are going to invest in Egyptian talent through offering trainings, internships and partnerships with various educational establishments," El Shabrawy added.

Mars said that the new production line will meet LEED Gold standards making it the first food facility in Egypt to comply with such international standard.

The LEED Gold Certificate from the Green Building Council (USGBC) assures better standards in electricity usage, natural lighting, and water waste recovery management as well as waste management and recycling.

Mars, based in McLean, Virginia, is involved in six business segments including pet care, chocolate, food, chewing gum, drinks and Symbioscience, with annual sales of more than $33bn.

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Image: Officials at the ground breaking ceremony of the Twix chocolate production line in Egypt. Photo courtesy of Mars, Incorporated and its Affiliates.