Ingwebu Breweries embarks on infrastructure modernisation

The ambitious project aims to enhance product distribution, extend shelf life and position the company competitively in the fast-changing beverage industry.

The investment which Cabinet made mention of this week aligns with Ingwebu Breweries’ broader strategy to diversify its packaging solutions, ensuring convenience and accessibility for consumers.

Traditionally known for its opaque sorghum beer packaged in traditional containers, the company is now expanding into PET packaging, which is expected to improve product preservation while catering to modern consumer preferences.

According to Ingwebu Breweries’ management, the PET packaging project is expected to revolutionise the company’s production process. By shifting to plastic bottle packaging, the brewery will enhance its ability to distribute products to wider markets, particularly in areas where traditional containers pose logistical challenges.

For instance, with just two weeks in operation, the new plant has enabled the firm to distribute to the Beitbridge market due to extended product shell life.

Speaking to Business Hub last Thursday, company managing director, Dumisani Mhlanga highlighted the importance of the investment.

“We have been operating the new plant for the past two weeks. This project is a game-changer for Ingwebu Breweries. The PET packaging plant will allow us to modernise our operations, increase production efficiency, and meet growing consumer demand for convenient and durable packaging,’ said Mhlanga.

“It’s been very exciting because the consumers are so excited there. We have not penetrated the market fully in places such as Beitbridge. We are still in the process of penetrating the market.

“I have no doubt we are going to grow volumes there. We have also gone to Kwekwe. We are going to go as far as Chegutu and Kadoma.”

The installation of the Beer PET plant comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s beverage industry is experiencing increased competition from local and international players.

Ingwebu Breweries, with its deep-rooted heritage in Bulawayo, is looking to leverage innovation to maintain its market share and remain a dominant force in the industry.

The PET packaging is becoming increasingly popular due to its lightweight nature, cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits when properly managed through recycling initiatives.

The investment also signals Ingwebu Breweries’ commitment to sustainability and modern business practices.

Beyond its impact on production and distribution, the Beer PET project is expected to create employment opportunities in Bulawayo and surrounding areas in the process providing much-needed economic benefits to local communities.

“For now we want to grow the product and in the next few years we will be taking of having a new plant to increase capacity,” he said.

“A present we have about 400 workers and the new project has employed an additional 21. Some of the workers running the plant were moved from other sections.”

Mhlanga added that the new plant will further boost support to local farmers.

“We have contract farmers in Chikombedzi and Binga for sorghum. This model has existed for a long time. Last year due to drought we could not get much from them. We are hopeful of better fortunes this year.”-ebsnessweekl