Nestlé commissions N4.1bn Milo RTD factory as earnings surge

Nestlé Nigeria Plc, as part of its commitment to meet the growing demand of its consumers in Nigeria, on Thursday 8 February commissioned a N4.1 billion Milo Ready-To-Drink (RTD) beverage production plant in Agbara, Ogun State.

The N4.1 billion investment by Nestle is expected to create an additional job for both direct and indirect employment, while the new RTD plant is part of the existing Agbara factory, which has been operating for 37 years.

The Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, while speaking at the inauguration of the plant, said the new plant is a reflection of the continued confidence Nestle has in the strength of Nigeria’s economy. “We are grateful to Nestlé for these significant investments, particularly for locating its factories in rural communities and sourcing its raw materials from local farmers contributing to the sustainable development of Nigeria,” he stated.

Mauricio Alarcon, MD/CEO Nestlé Nigeria, in a statement said the new investment is in line with Nestlé’s commitments to enable healthier and happier lives. “The new Nestlé Milo RTD is complementing the existing range of offerings of our iconic Milo brand. It is conveniently packaged to offer the unique Milo taste and meet the nutrition needs of active children on the go,” he said.

“This new production plant is a true reflection of how Nestlé creates shared value for all, by providing good jobs, sourcing 80% of our inputs with local farmers and investing in the development of rural communities,” Alarcon stated.

David Ifezulike, Chairman, Nestlé Nigeria, in his remark said the company has been present in the Nigerian market since 1961, producing a range of high quality brands including Maggi, Milo, Golden Morn, Nescafé and Nestlé Pure Life.

“With staff strength of over 2,300 direct employees, 3 manufacturing sites, 8 branch offices and a head office located in Lagos, Nestlé is a strong pillar of growth in the Nigerian economy,” said Ifezulike.

The new plant produces Nestlé Milo Ready-To-Drink (RTD) beverage in 180ml cartons and has a yearly production capacity above 8,000 tonnes. Launched in October 2017, Milo RTD is made from the natural goodness of milk, malt and cocoa.

Equipped with the latest state of the art technology that adopts high safety and environmental standards, Nestlé Milo provides essential nutrients and is fortified with unique blend of vitamins, ACTIVGO (Vitamins B3, B2, B6, B12, vitamin C, and vitamin D) and minerals including Calcium and Iron.

 

BALA AUGIE & SEYI JOHN SALAU