Mars, Inc. is expanding its Better Cities for Pets initiative to support the growing needs of urban pet owners through new global partnerships and investments aimed at improving access to green spaces and pet-friendly destinations.
With urban pet populations expected to rise nearly 10% by 2030, Mars will invest more than $1 million to support city infrastructure that benefits both pets and people. The goal is to reach 10 million people and pets through this initiative by the end of the decade.
A key component of the expansion is a new partnership with C40 Cities, a global network of mayors committed to climate action. The collaboration centers on the launch of an Urban Nature Playbook for People, Pets and the Planet, which provides city leaders with strategies to integrate pet-friendly and climate-resilient green infrastructure, such as tree-lined sidewalks and public parks, into urban planning.
Initial cities implementing the playbook include London, Los Angeles, São Paulo, Bengaluru and Bangkok.
“Green space in cities is vital to ensuring people's well-being,” said Mark Watts, executive director of C40 Cities. “This partnership with Mars will accelerate support to cities to build resilience and improve access to green space for people and their pets.”
Sadiq Khan, mayor of London and co-chair of C40 Cities, added: “Everyone should be able to enjoy safe, green spaces — including with our pets. London is proud to be one of Europe’s most pet-friendly cities.”
Tripadvisor expansion
Mars is also expanding its partnership with Tripadvisor, building on a U.S. pilot program to identify and promote pet-friendly businesses. The initiative will now reach the UK, Italy and Australia through brand collaborations with Cesar and My Dog. In the past year, more than 5,000 new pet-friendly destinations were added to Tripadvisor.
“With the urban pet population set to rise by almost 10% by 2030, Mars is more committed than ever to improving city living for millions of pets and pet parents around the world," said Ikdeep Singh, global president of Mars Pet Nutrition.
Since 2017, Better Cities for Pets has focused on enhancing the quality of urban life for pet owners through research, public policy support and direct investment in city infrastructure.
According to Petfood Industry's Top Pet Food Companies, as a $50 billion+ family-owned business, Mars Petcare Inc. has a diverse and expanding portfolio of leading pet care products and veterinary services to support pets all around the world, and its quality snacking and food products delight millions of people every day. The company produces some of the world's best-loved brands including Royal Canin, Pedigree and Whiskas.
