Mars confirms major US corporate headquarters revamp
Mike Gilroy, of Mars Wrigley, speaking to Confectionery Production at Sweets & Snacks Expo. Pic: Neill Barston
A significant revamp of Mars’s US-based headquarters in McLean, Virginia, which is set to place sustainable energy generation at its heart, as well as improving dedicated areas for employees throughout the business, writes Neill Barston.
The company, which has just announced a major $35 billion acquisition of the Kellanova business, has continued with a strong pipeline of innovation which was demonstrated recently at the latest edition of Sweets & Snacks Expo in Indianapolis (pictured).
According to the confectionery giant, its HQ will focus on sustainability, involving some notable re-organisation measures to create a more dynamic working environment that is also considered to be more pet-friendly in relation to its product areas serving that market. As the company noted, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors unanimously supported rezoning the property in Fall 2023 and the company plans to reopen the building to Associates in 2026.
The McLean headquarters opened on Elm Street in 1984 to support the business which back then employed approximately 20,000 Associates globally. The business has since grown significantly with more than 150,000 Associates worldwide, with over $50 billion dollars in annual sales and a diverse and expanding portfolio of pet care products, veterinary services, quality snacking and food.
“When the Mars Family opened our corporate headquarters nearly four decades ago, it was important that the headquarters remained modest with a purpose to support Associates in markets worldwide,” Nici Bush, Vice President of Innovation, Science & Technology and executive project sponsor, reflected. “We have strived to ensure the design of our renovation honors this spirit and, simultaneously, enhances the Associate experience for those who visit and work in McLean.”
As the company added, the renovated headquarters will have on-site renewable energy generation with roof-mounted photovoltaic panels, a new geothermal water source heat pump system, and high-efficiency light and water fixtures. The company will pursue LEED Gold certification. In addition to enhanced meeting spaces and a fitness center, the outdoor terrace will be a welcomed amenity, preserving green space and encouraging outdoor gatherings. Pets are one of the highlights of Mars workplaces, and the design of the corporate headquarters will showcase the best practices of its Better Cities for Pets initiative.
