With more than 125 companies related to the animal health care industry located in the Kansas City area*, it’s no wonder Mars Petcare US chose to locate its new, state-of-the-art research and development facility at the company’s existing manufacturing site in Kansas City, Mo.
Located in a facility that currently produces GREENIES® dog and cat treats for The Nutro Company, which is also part of Mars, Incorporated, the new lab will accommodate Mars Petcare US research and development operations across a number of brands. The team at Mars Petcare, one of the nation’s leading providers of petcare products, knew one factor was most important in their search for a location: the city needed to provide a strong and viable workforce.
“We’re fortunate that so many animal health professionals are located in our own backyard,” said Tracey Ziener, Director of Research and Development – Quality and Food Safety, Mars Petcare US. “Building the lab alongside our Kansas City operations was the best choice since we already have skilled associates at the location and a skilled pool of professionals as potential associates from the KC Animal Corridor area.”
In order to update the facility and include the state-of-the-art lab technology and workspace needed, Mars Petcare US partnered with the Economic Development Corporation of Kansas City, Missouri; along with the Missouri Department of Economic Development, the Kansas City Area Development Council and the Missouri Partnership to financially support the total $16 million in investment.
For its part, the EDC assisted in securing Enhanced Enterprise Zone tax credits, as well as a 10-year 50% local property tax abatement, new job training and employer recruitment and referral services.
Anticipated to create over 100 new full-time jobs, the new R&D facility will continue to add to Kansas City’s already rich knowledge base and expertise in animal health care.
“The Animal Health Corridor in Kansas City both ties us to our agricultural roots, while simultaneously pushing us forward into innovative and life-changing technology,” said Kerrie Tyndall, Business Development Officer for the EDC. “Having a global leader like Mars Petcare US playing a part in it can only serve to advance our community and provide more growth opportunities for Kansas Citians.”
*Source: Kansas City Area Development Council
