Willowton Group, a leading producer of edible oils and soaps in Mutare, Zimbabwe, is preparing to launch a new margarine plant. This development marks a significant milestone in the company’s expansion efforts.
Gaurav Bhansali, Head of Finance and Commercial at Willowton Group Zimbabwe, has announced that the plant is currently undergoing test runs. Production is scheduled to begin in September with a capacity of 1,500 tonnes of margarine per month. Willowton, known for its D’lite and Sun cooking oil brands as well as Brite Lite and Sona soaps, is expanding its product range.
“We started this margarine project a year and a half ago, investing between $6 million and $7 million,” Bhansali said. “The plant will produce 1,500 tonnes per month, introducing the D’lite and Romi brands.”
Bhansali highlighted the company’s ongoing export efforts. “We are already exporting bathing soap and exploring regional markets for margarine. We see significant business opportunities in Zambia, Mozambique, and Malawi.”
In addition to the margarine plant, Willowton is expanding its production capacity for cooking oil and soap. “Our D’lite cooking oil, one of our best-selling brands, has a production capacity of 6,000 tonnes per month. The combined cost of the cooking oil refinery and soap plants is about $25 million.”
Willowton produces Sona bathing soap with a capacity of 1,000 tonnes per month, operating at around 85% capacity. The company exports to Zambia and Malawi, which account for 30% of its bath soap sales.
“We also export 500 tonnes of bathing soap raw materials monthly,” Bhansali said. “Our laundry bar plant, with a capacity of 2,400 tonnes, is running at 85% capacity utilization, following a 30% increase in capacity at the beginning of 2023.”
Willowton is one of several companies in Manicaland province aiming to leverage the SADC Industrialisation Week to boost exports and market their products. “We see great potential to expand our market and have increased our export volumes over the past two years,” Bhansali said. “The SADC Industrialisation Week offers a fantastic opportunity for Zimbabwean companies to showcase and enhance their export capacities.”
The SADC Industrialisation Week will be held from July 28 to August 2 at the Harare International Conference Centre. This event is a significant opportunity for local businesses to connect with regional partners and explore new markets, furthering Zimbabwe’s industrial and economic growth.
Bhansali expressed confidence in the current economic environment and government policies. “This is why we are expanding and growing our business in Zimbabwe,” he said.
The new margarine plant signifies Willowton’s commitment to diversifying its product lines and exploring new markets. The company aims to strengthen its position in the regional market, leveraging its established brands and expanding its reach.
As Willowton continues to grow, its contributions to Zimbabwe’s industrial and economic landscape become more significant. The new plant not only adds to the company’s portfolio but also supports local employment and economic development.
The SADC Industrialisation Week is expected to attract significant attention from businesses across the region. With companies like Willowton leading the way, Zimbabwe is poised to enhance its industrial capabilities and expand its presence in regional markets.
Willowton’s strategic investments and expansions reflect its confidence in Zimbabwe’s economic potential. The new margarine plant is a testament to the company’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to growth.
Willowton’s new margarine plant is set to be a game-changer for the company and the region. By expanding its product line and exploring new markets, Willowton is positioning itself for sustained growth and success in the competitive regional market.
Source: Newsday
