US-based Mars says India a key 'accelerate' market

Mars, the US-based chocolate maker, sees India as a key 'accelerate' market. It is ramping up its distribution network in the country to tap the high growth potential.

The company offers brands like Snickers, Mars, Bounty, M&M, Double Mint, Boomer, Orbit, Galaxy and Twix in India. It further looks to launch one more brand in the next six to eight weeks to enhance its presence in the country.

Andrew Leakey, Mars Wrigley Confectionery General Manager, India, said, "India is a key 'accelerate' market in Mars Wrigley Confectionery Asia, Australia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA)."

For expanding its reach beyond metros and some key cities, Mars is investing to strengthen its distribution network and is building a sustainable supply chain in the Indian market.

Mars Wrigley products are currently distributed through around 3,00,000 outlets. The company is looking to take the number to over 5,00,000.

Andrew said, "With our continued focus on growth in the India market through our expanding distribution network, flexibility to scale as per demand, ongoing efforts to build sustainable supply chain and strong market potential, we anticipate one-fourth of our growth contribution for AMEA region, coming from India, over the next few years."