Quality Beverages Limited (QBL), a leading manufacturer in Mauritius, has officially inaugurated a new fully automated PET bottle production line on its site. This significant investment of 330 million rupees aims to meet the growing demand for beverages while addressing environmental concerns. The company, founded in 1955, is a major player in the Mauritian manufacturing sector with an annual turnover of over 3.5 billion rupees and a workforce of more than 800 employees.
The new production line is expected to substantially increase QBL's capacity, currently operating at nearly 100% during peak summer and festive seasons. According to Iñigo de Prado, CEO of QBL, the existing operations were struggling to keep up with demand. The automated line will immediately boost output from 7,500 to 18,000 bottles per hour, with a target of 30,000 bottles per hour by 2028. This expansion will secure the local market's supply and support the company's regional export ambitions for the next decade.
The investment in the new production line is supported by the Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) through its Sustainable Loan Scheme. This initiative demonstrates the synergy between economic profitability and ecological transition. The project aligns with the Mauritian government's "Industry Reset" vision, which emphasizes the importance of strengthening local production to build national economic resilience against global supply chain disruptions.
The new production line is not only a significant investment in technology but also a step towards environmental sustainability. The Mauritian government, through the Ministry of Environment, is promoting recycling initiatives, including the recycling of PET bottles. The project has been praised by Industry Minister Adil Amir Meea and Environment Minister Rajesh Bhagwan, who see it as a positive development for the country's industrial sector.
QBL's investment in the new production line is a testament to the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability. With a portfolio of 42 brands, including Pepsi and Vital, QBL is a well-established player in the Mauritian market. The company's expansion plans are expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, creating new opportunities for growth and development.
The launch of the new production line is a significant milestone for QBL, marking a new era in the company's history. The investment in technology and sustainability is expected to drive growth and profitability for the company, while also contributing to the country's economic development. The project's success will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and government officials.
The collaboration between QBL and the Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) on the Sustainable Loan Scheme is an example of how financial institutions can support businesses in their sustainability efforts. The project's focus on environmental sustainability and economic profitability sets a positive precedent for future investments in the Mauritian manufacturing sector.
Key points
- QBL Mauritius has invested Rs 330M in a new eco-friendly PET bottle production line to meet growing demand while addressing environmental concerns.
- The new production line will increase QBL's capacity from 7,500 to 18,000 bottles per hour, with a target of 30,000 bottles per hour by 2028.
- The project is supported by the Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) through its Sustainable Loan Scheme, demonstrating the synergy between economic profitability and ecological transition.
