Dairy product exporter Ornua has opened a new packing factory in Lagos, Nigeria where it will pack powdered milk under the Kerrygold brand.

This investment is said to be the latest in a series of major global investments by Ornua, which is seeking to expand routes to market for Irish dairy produce.

The new facility has been built as a joint venture between Ornua and distribution and packing partners, Fareast Mercantile.

It will see powdered milk exported from Ireland to Nigeria where it will be packaged and marketed under the Kerrygold brand.

Packaged in small sachets, pouches or tins, Kerrygold powders are primarily sold through small distributors.

Ornua CEO Kevin Lane said: "The opening of our Kerrygold facility in Nigeria is another important step in our growth plans for Africa. Nigeria is a young, vibrant country and one in which we see a real opportunity to grow the Kerrygold brand.

"We are delighted to be working with our joint venture partners Fareast Mercantile and look forward to building on our existing relationships in Nigeria. Importantly for Irish dairy farmers, this development offers an enhanced route to market for the additional forecasted milk volumes."

Ornua said that Nigeria is one of the top three importers of powdered milk products in Africa and the largest importer of full-fat milk powder.

Last year, Nigeria imported 166,000 tons of milk powder products, with the retail market alone valued at €455m.

Minister for Agriculture, Food & the Marine Simon Coveney said: "This factory shows further evidence of the innovative thinking that will drive the Irish dairy sector forward."

Ornua recently developed and expanded production and innovation facilities in Ireland, North America, Germany, Spain, the UK and Saudi Arabia.

 

foodproducts.packaging-business-review.com

Report Abuse