PHILIPPINES – Philippines-based food and beverage giant Monde Nissin has received approval from the country’s Board of Investments (BOI) to build a computerised biscuit production facility in Davao City.
The P1.2 billion (US$21.4 million) project will feature advanced automation technology throughout the production and packaging, generating 111 regular jobs.
The new facility, located in Brgy. Ilang, Bunawan, and Davao City, will serve the Visayas and Mindanao markets and produce Monde Nissin’s Blue Coconut Biscuits.
Except for the manual preparation of raw materials, the entire production and packaging process will be fully mechanized, using up-to-date and market-appropriate technologies.
“Previously, packaging at its existing plant in Laguna was done manually. For this project, the firm will employ advanced automation technology for the packaging and movement of finished goods which will require highly skilled workers whom are hired locally,” the company stated.
The project supports the Philippines’ push towards increased digitisation in the manufacturing sector.
While the biscuits will initially be for the domestic market, Monde Nissin sees potential for expansion into Indonesia and neighbouring Southeast Asian countries.
Monde Nissin, which owns brands such as Lucky Me noodles, SkyFlakes crackers, and the UK-based meat-free business Quorn, reported mixed results in the second quarter of 2024.
While gross profits and margins rebounded, EBITDA and net losses widened.
However, its core Asia Pacific Branded Food and Beverage business posted a 5.7% increase in comparable sales to 16.46 billion pesos(US$29.4 million).
The automated biscuit factory is expected to start commercial operations this month and generate 111 regular jobs.
The project is a testament to Monde Nissin’s commitment to innovation and growth in the Philippines and the region.
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