Kuwait packaging group targets food growth after opening AED$100m site in Abu Dhabi
The firm, a subsidiary of Kuwait-based Al Khat Packaging Co, is the exclusive provider of all print carton materials for McDonald’s in the GCC, as well as other leading food brands in the Middle East.
The facility will eventually employ over 200 people when it reaches its full capacity, with the firm also hoping to win new business from food companies located at KIZAD.
CEO Mohamed Abou Khalid said the site was the firm’s first facility outside Kuwait and the centrepiece of its expansion strategy.
“Located just 10 kilometres away from Khalifa Port and halfway between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, KIZAD allows us to be easily connected to a large number of international shipping destinations, world-class infrastructure, dedicated investor support and so much more,” he said.
“We look forward to continue serving leading brands in the MENA region through enhanced supply chain efficiencies from our new location.”
Port access
The investment is a part of a 50-year land-lease agreement signed by Al Khat with Abu Dhabi Ports, the operator and manager of KIZAD, in June 2014.
All export and import activities will be done via Abu Dhabi Ports’ flagship port, Khalifa Port, the company added.
Captain Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports, said: “We are proud that leading companies have chosen KIZAD as a home in which to expand their business. This is testimony that we are heading in the right direction.
"We are confident that KIZAD’s strategic location and the services we provide will continue to facilitate the growth of its clients by further leveraging the synergies found in our Food & Packaging cluster.”
