Mars launched a chocolates factory in Saudi Arabia on 2 December with the kingdom’s first LEED Gold environmental certification for a food plant.
The $80m factory at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) at Rabigh produces a range of Galaxy chocolates.
By employing a high percentage of Saudi nationals the plant has also also been given a ‘platinum’ rating under the Ministry of Labour’s Nitiqaat programme.
“Our products have been present in Saudi Arabia for over 30 years and we are proud that they are among the kingdom’s favourites,” said Sami Darouni, president of Mars Middle East, Turkey and Africa.
“This factory reaffirms our long-term commitment to this market and we are pleased to have the opportunity to invest in the development of local talent.”
Rayan Qutub, CEO Industrial Valley at KAEC, described the launch as “another milestone for KAEC”.
LEED Gold standards recognise ‘green’ building technology, including renewable energy, solar energy and waste water treatment.