Local BusinessTuesday, November 3
The Mars factory in Waco turns 50 this month, and every U.S. Starburst starts there
The Daily Waco team
If you've ever eaten a Starburst in the U.S., it came from Waco. The Mars factory on Central Texas Parkway opened in 1976 and is celebrating its 50th anniversary this month. It's the only Mars factory that makes Starburst.
Plant Director Gavin Kueber said it's one of Mars' top two factories in North America. It makes all the chocolate for Snickers across North America and roasts its own peanuts, and about 80% of the Snickers distributed there are made and packaged in Waco.
About 80% of Snickers distributed in North America come from Waco
80%Share of North American Snickers made and packaged in Waco
Source: KWTX
View as table
| Value | |
|---|---|
| Share of North American Snickers made and packaged in Waco | 80% |
- Starburst output: millions made and packaged every day
- Snickers line: as long as a football field
- Opened: 1976
Kueber is encouraging others to join the team to help carry Mars through another 50 years.
900associates work at the Waco Mars factory
Almost 300 of them have more than 10 years of experience, and Kueber said the anniversary celebrates those people.
Source: KWTX
In other Waco-area news, the Tribune-Herald's news briefs include local classes to help with Medicare open enrollment.
Sources: KWTX, Waco Tribune-Herald