Originally published on LinkedIn by Andrew Clarke, Global President at Mars Wrigley

It’s clearly amazing the speed in which our lives have been transformed during these current challenges. Our Associates have adapted and mobilized quickly, while taking care of themselves and their families. Above all else, we believe it is imperative to think and act mutually and support one another. 

At Mars Wrigley, our first priority is to protect the health and wellbeing of our 35,000 Associates worldwide and the quality of the products they make every day. Working with the most up-to-date medical, scientific and government advice, we have implemented a number of preventative measures to help protect our people and play our role in stopping the spread of coronavirus. We had the benefit of learning from our colleagues in China and taking quick action to encourage people to work from home. We’ve also implemented additional safety measures in all of our sites, closed our M&M’S World and Ethel M stores across the U.S. and in London; and food donations including treats and snacks to frontline workers worldwide. In addition, the Mars Wrigley Foundation will provide $3 million of financial relief as a part of Mars Incorporated’s $20 million cash and in-kind donation to support the people, pets and communities most affected by COVID-19. As we move forward, we will continue to adjust, assessing and responding to changing conditions affecting our Associates, and our communities. 

None of this would be possible without our own key Associates working in the field and in Mars Wrigley factories around the world, along with all our Associates like me who are working from home juggling a new normal with children, partners and pets. Our Associates are helping keep our business and broader economies running, and on a personal level, they’re providing treats so people can keep celebrating special occasions, and keep smiling, if even for a moment. 

We know so many of you count on our products. And while we can’t share our usual moments together in person, we’re all finding new ways to connect. We are touched by the kindness, generosity and creativity that have emerged as we learn to connect with each other in new ways and help put smiles on people’s faces. Just as we have for more than a century, Mars Wrigley will still create and celebrate #BetterMoments, though at an appropriate distance.

Stay well and stay safe. Let’s continue to support one another.