Tetra Pak reopens upgraded Pinetown plant after US$27M investment

SOUTH AFRICA – Tetra Pak, a leading food processing and packaging solutions company in South Africa, has unveiled its newly renovated factory in Pinetown, KwaZulu-Natal, following a substantial investment of approximately R500 million (US$26.75m).

This significant investment was channeled into upgrading and expanding the production capabilities of the Pinetown facility, positioning Tetra Pak to better serve customers across the Southern African region.

The extensive upgrade, spanning a period of two years, was strategically designed to enhance and diversify the production capabilities of the Pinetown facility.

Tetra Pak now boasts the ability to offer a wider range of packaging formats, including the introduction of plant-based packages, reflecting its commitment to innovation and sustainability.

At the reopening event held on April 4, Klaus Plenge, Managing Director of Tetra Pak Southern Africa, emphasized the company’s belief in collaboration and highlighted the pivotal role of the government in fostering a conducive business environment for innovation and economic growth.

Plenge also highlighted the new export opportunities for Tetra Pak products, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area Agreement.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, also present at the event, lauded the expanded facility for its potential to create jobs, drive innovation, promote localization, and advance the circular economy.

Despite the challenges posed by the current economic climate, Ramaphosa expressed confidence in South Africa’s attractiveness to investors and reiterated the government’s commitment to partnership with the business sector to overcome various challenges, including those related to energy, logistics, and water.

Ramaphosa’s sentiments were echoed by Tetra Pak’s Plenge, who emphasized the company’s dedication to supporting local businesses and communities through significant investments.

Plenge underscored Tetra Pak’s commitment to the circular economy in South Africa, reflecting the company’s confidence in the future of the community and the country as a whole.

In a recent development, Tetra Pak South Africa proudly announced its official membership in the Proudly South African organization.

This partnership signifies a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to supporting and contributing to the growth of the South African economy, as well as its dedication to its customers.

Plenge expressed enthusiasm about the membership, highlighting Tetra Pak’s role in both local supply and global expansion, especially following the upgrading of Pinetown plant.

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