The site in Antipolo, Philippines produces up to 30 metric tons of gum every day, with the majority exported to markets like Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.
The factory is central to Mars Wrigley’s South East Asian operations, driving exports while piloting sustainability initiatives.
Kalpesh Parmar, Regional General Manager for Mars Wrigley Asia, said Antipolo has evolved from a local site into a backbone of the firm’s regional growth.
“Mars Wrigley Antipolo has been a cornerstone of the Philippine economy, delivering high-quality confectionery products – such as Doublemint, Juicy Fruit, and Cool Air – that inspire moments of everyday happiness,” Parmar told us.
He also emphasised that the firm’s sustainability journey is part of its growth from local to regional hub.
Mars Wrigley’s sustainability roadmap
In 2024, the firm began transitioning from diesel to renewable energy with a US$1m biomass boiler. The boiler is fuelled by rice husks and coconut shells sourced from nearby farmers.
This has reduced the plant’s annual carbon emissions by approximately 679 tons, while also supporting local farmers by procuring energy resources from them.
The goal is a gradual shift to 100% renewable thermal energy as the firm progresses towards its net zero ambition by 2050.
“Currently, 30% of our electricity consumption at Antipolo is powered by renewables, and we are working closely with our Grid Electricity Partner to transition to 100% renewable electricity by the first quarter of 2026. Alongside that, we’re exploring solar integration, smarter waste segregation, and upgrades for greater energy efficiency,” Parmar said.
“For Mars Wrigley, sustainability is not a side project – it’s built into how we operate and grow. Through our Sustainable in a Generation Plan, we have cut our carbon emissions by another 1.9% (compared to 2015 levels) − even while growing our business by 69% to reach about $55 billion in annual sales. That shows the outcomes of embedding purpose into performance.”
The company is also piloting sustainable packaging innovations, particularly in Asia where eco-conscious consumers expect brands to lead on responsibility.
“Globally, 64% of our packaging is now recyclable, compostable, or reusable, and we’re piloting new approaches in Asia – from compostable packs to gum bottles made with mono-material, recycled content, and paper. These innovations matter in Asia, where consumers are increasingly eco-conscious and expect brands to lead on responsible packaging,” shared Parmar.
He added that Antipolo’s special role demonstrates how a facility can both scale production for the region and push the boundaries of what sustainability in manufacturing looks like.
“The Antipolo facility will continue to play a vital role in our sustainability journey – exemplifying our commitment to positive environmental impact, while serving as a cornerstone in Mars’ broader global sustainability roadmap,” said Parmar.
