Nevanji Munyaradzi Chiondegwa
Harare – In a momentous occasion, President Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa officially commissioned the expanded carbonated drinks and water production lines, as well as the new warehouse facility, of Varun Beverages Zimbabwe Private Limited.
Addressing the gathering, President Mnangagwa praised the company’s consistent determination to modernize the manufacturing sector, particularly the beverages sub-sector. “Since 2018, Varun Beverages has demonstrated a consistent determination to be a leader in the modernisation of the manufacturing sector,” he stated.
The President noted that the new investment will increase Varun Beverages’ production capacity to 100 million bottles of sparkling and bottled water per month, up from the earlier 80 million bottles. “The production lines we are gathered here to commission will increase production capacity to 100 million bottles of sparkling and bottled water, from the earlier 80 million bottles per month,” he announced.
Highlighting the company’s ongoing expansion plans, the President revealed that Varun Beverages intends to venture into the production of dairy and juice products by the end of 2025. “Your plans to expand your business to include the production of dairy and juices products by end of 2025 are also commendable,” he said.
The President commended Varun Beverages’ introduction of Mobile Pepsi Dispensing Units, which have significantly transformed the retail landscape in Zimbabwe and created employment opportunities for women and youth. “Varun Beverages, through its investment in Mobile Pepsi Dispensing Units, has significantly transformed the retail landscape in Zimbabwe. This initiative has created employment opportunities for women and youth,” he stated.
Emphasizing the government’s support for the manufacturing sector, President Mnangagwa urged local authorities to ensure the provision of reliable services for businesses. “I urge our local authorities to consistently ensure the provision of reliable services for business as well as the general citizenry,” he said.
The President also encouraged Varun Beverages and other players in the manufacturing sector to explore opportunities for increased exports to the SADC and COMESA regions, leveraging Zimbabwe’s existing trade arrangements, including the African Continental Free Trade Area. “I encourage Varun Beverages and other players in the manufacturing sector to explore options to increase exports of your products into the SADC and COMESA regions, taking full advantage of Zimbabwe’s existing Trade Arrangements, including the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he stated.
Concluding his address, the President congratulated the Board, Management, and Staff of Varun Beverages for their “sterling job, focus and meticulous implementation of the company’s strategic plan,” which has resulted in the establishment of this additional investment. “This is a significant step, not just for Varun Beverages, but also for the country at large. Well done, you have done a commendable job,” he said.
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