Petfod manufacturer Mars Petcare is increasing its pet treat production with a US$128.6 million expansion at its Columbia, South Carolina, USA, facility, which will create about 277 jobs over the next five years, The State reported.

The 290,000-square-foot expansion will more than triple the plant's payroll at Mars, according to the report. The expansion will help the company meet a growing demand for its petfood, company spokeswoman Julie Lawless said. The company received US$1.5 million in aid from South Carolina commerce officials and county property tax breaks.