Mars Petcare officially opened a $100 million manufacturing facility in Bathurst, New South Wales, this week.
The facility, which employs 150 local workers, produces dry pet food. General manager of Mars Petcare Australia, Sylvia Burbery, said the facility is a showcase of innovation and sustainable practices.
"We are utilising innovation across processes and packaging to produce high quality food while minimising the environmental impact," she said.
"From our first factory opening in 1966 in Wodonga (where our head office is still located) through to this new, world-class dry pet food factory – we have a proud track record of regional investment in Australia.
"This $100 million facility is one of the largest investments ever made in the Bathurst community and is one of the most advanced and versatile dry factories in the Mars global network.”
Mars Petcare plant manager, John Vickers, said with this new facility the company now has the capability to contribute to industry innovation and demonstrate best practice manufacturing, ultimately driving the industry forward.
The new factory incorporates the latest in modern and efficient equipment, energy efficient building design, lean workflow principles and the highest quality and food safety standards, which has direct implications for competitive,
low carbon Australian manufacturing.
Reductions of 47 per cent in future energy intensity and 40 per cent in carbon intensity represent significant improvements on the base position.
Vickers said the building construction incorporatesthe latest innovations on the use of light and air and is designed to comply with LEED gold certification requirements.
"We are acutely aware of the value of water and the necessity for conservation. The factory design minimises its use and the building design ensures maximum catchment and re-use of rain water," he said.
"Investments in new packaging equipment will allow us to ensure both primary and secondary pack designs maximise efficient use of materials and space, minimising waste."