Nestlé has announced the inauguration of its new Al-Maha factory, in Dubai South, and an investment of 530 million dirhams (€130 million) into the sustainable production of its Maggi and Nescafé brands.
The new Nestlé Middle East factory was inaugurated in Dubai South by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed AL Maktoum.
Marco Settembri, executive vice-president of Nestlé SA and head of zone for Europe, the Middle East and North Africa, was also present at the event.
Confidence In Dubai
“Dubai South offers strategic advantages that make it an ideal and attractive destination for leading multinationals,” said HH Sheikh Ahmed. “It is an important component in Dubai’s vision to provide a comprehensive platform that caters to the needs of aviation, air-transport, commercial and logistics businesses.”
Settembri emphasised how the new factory underlined the company's commitment to its customers, and its willingness to invest and create jobs.
“This 530-million-dirham investment is Nestlé’s 18th production site in the Middle East, and another milestone in our more than 80 years in this region. It shows our confidence in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates as a dynamic, stable and competitive business hub, and our long-term commitment to the people of the Middle East,” he said.
The Factory
The new factory employs 340 men and women stemming from 20 different nationalities, 60% of whom are under 30. Nestlé already operates two other factories in Dubai Investment Park, one for Nestlé Waters, and another for Nestlé Dubai Manufacturing.
The factory also includes a permanent exhibit, showcasing the role that Nestlé plays in society, such as the Nestlé Healthy Kids Programme. It also features high-tech tools including iPads and Oculi, allowing for 360-degree virtual visits to the farms around the world that supply ingredients to the company.
© 2017 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Aidan O’Sullivan. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
