Mars is 130,000+ Associates, 80 countries strong — and as one global family, we take good care of each other. We’re learning so much this year, and with The Five Principles and our Purpose to guide us forward, we’re using these insights to lead Mars Associates safely into our next normal. 

No matter where our Associates work, from our offices to the frontlines of our factories or veterinary clinics, to remote working, we continue to put their safety, health and wellbeing first.

We’re also investing in Associates’ overall resilience through a wide range of resources — including the global expansion of our Associate Assistance Program to 58 new countries. Today, 57 percent of people are experiencing greater anxiety. That’s why we’re truly committed to breaking down mental health stigma and ensuring we all get the support we need. With the AAP, our Associates are offered 5-8 confidential counselling sessions per issue free of charge to them and *members of their household.

Additionally, we’ve provided monthly global webinars reaching thousands of Associates to help those dealing with loneliness, burnout and stress — as well as virtual energy management workshops and other online sessions to manage mental, emotional and physical health.

For working parents and caregivers, we’re providing resources — and in line with our Principle of Responsibility, we’re encouraging Associates to be flexible in keeping the right balance between their responsibilities at home and the business. To further this principle, we’re equipping line managers with the resources to support individual needs for flexible schedules.

We also recognize Mars Associates live in the communities where they work, and many want to give back as it’s more important than ever to support our neighbors. Therefore, we’re continuing the Mars Volunteer Program this year, focusing mostly on virtual opportunities.

We’ve already heard so many inspiring stories from the program around the world, including one from our Associates in Brazil who donated time to visit, virtually with local nursing home residents — bringing personal connection (with smiles) while they sheltered in place. 

There’s no playbook for a pandemic, so we’re also leaving room to learn from each other. 

Some of our sites have shown immense creativity in keeping each other connected and engaged — from virtual happy hours and care package deliveries to gardening competitions and virtual fitness challenges. 

As we support Associates through their individual situations, we’re keeping a keen eye on the future and exploring how we can begin to define our workplaces of the future. 

Ultimately, we appreciate the challenges that 2020 has presented. Associate safety remains our top priority and we know that together we can create an even stronger culture than before — guided by our Five Principles and Purpose to the world. 

*Check with your local service provider.