Mars to expand Maltesers plant in Australia

Mars Chocolate Australia plans a A$52m (US $53m) expansion of its factory in Ballarat, which manufactures Maltesers and other Mars confections.

The Victorian Government recently voiced its support for Mars’ plans, according to a statement from the Australian Industry Group.

Tim Piper, Victorian Director of Australian Industry Group, said: "Mars has been very important in the Australian confectionery landscape and is a major employer in Ballarat.  Its expansionary plans will be a fillip for the area.”

The Ballarat plant was buil;t in 1979 and was Mars Chocolate’s first factory in Australia. The site is home to around 500 employees who produce Mars bars, Maltesers, M&Ms, Snickers, Dove and Pods.

The plant has a production capacity to make 1m Mars bars in eight hours.