Mars Petcare to Create 160 Missouri Jobs

Mars Petcare US will build a research & development facility and update its existing operation in Kansas City, Missouri, creating 157 new full-time jobs by 2010.

Tennessee’s Mars Petcare currently employs 150 at the facility.

The Missouri Department of Economic Development has provided the firm with $971,660 in Enhanced Enterprise Zone tax credits, $458,206 in New Jobs Training Program financing and $128,500 in savings through the Employee Recruitment Referral Program.

Mars, Incorporated is a worldwide manufacturer of confectionery, pet food and other food products with US$21 billion in annual sales in 2008. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the company is entirely owned by the Mars family, making it one of the largest privately owned U.S. corporations.

Mars Petcare US has more than 3,000 employees at 22 facilities in the US. Its brands include Pedigree, Cesar Canine Cuisine, Whiskas and Sheba.