MARIEL, CUBA — Nestle S.A. has partnered with Cuba-based Corporacion Alimentaria, S.A. (Coralsa) to build a food and beverage plant in the Mariel Special Development Zone of Cuba. Nestle is investing 54 million Swiss francs ($54.8 million) in the 602,779-square-foot plant, which is expected to be complete by the end of 2019.
Nestle said the companies plan to make several products at the plant, including Nescafe coffee, local Cuban roast and ground coffee under the Serrano brand, Nestle Fitness cereal-based snacks, Nesquik powdered beverages and Maggi cooking aids.
Laurent Freixe, c.e.o. for the Americas at Nestle |
“This new factory will help meet growing consumer demand and further strengthen our presence in Cuba,” said Laurent Freixe, chief executive officer for the Americas at Nestle. “Local production capacity combined with Nestle’s know-how will benefit the local food industry and create new chances for growth.”
Mr. Freixe was part of a contingent from Nestle that attended a Nov. 28 inauguration ceremony for the facility.
“This production plant represents a great opportunity to develop new categories with high demand in Cuban market,” said Harold Hoffman, country manager for Cuba. “We seek to offer products with nutritional value, in coherence with our Nutrition, Health and Wellness strategy, while expanding the business in the region.”
Cuba already operates two facilities in Cuba with Coralsa that produce mineral water, carbonated soft drinks and ice cream.