As a result of experiencing double-digit growth in the Middle East since 2000, Mars GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council), the leading regional manufacturer of chocolate products in the area, opened a new $40-million plant in Dubai last week.

 

His Excellency Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulauyam as well as numerous government officials and business partners attended the inauguration ceremonies of the 6,000 sq.-meter (64,583 sq. ft.) facility, which will produce MARS and SNICKERS bars.

 

As Ahmed Bayoumi, general manager of Mars CGG, noted, the subsidiary posted nets sales of $450 million last year.

 

“We are pleased that consumer demand in the Middle East has and continues to general opportunities for table long-term growth,” he says. “This has led to the investment of more than $100 million in our manufacturing unit since 1998. We are committed to strengthening our position as the leading chocolate manufacturer in the Middle East and our increased presence in GCC will help us achieve this growth by supporting consumer and customer needs in the region.”

 

Mars GCC built its first plant in Dubai in 1988, which produces a complete rangy of GALAXY chocolates. It distributes products to more than 20 countries in GCC, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

 

For more information, visit www.mars.com.