Clover opens world-class milk plant

MPHO TLALE
Correspondent | Thursday August 19, 2010 00:00

 

Speaking at the opening of their new P40 million plant in Gaborone yesterday, Herman De Lange said although most of the raw milk is imported from South Africa, they are able to meet two thirds of the country's requirements.

'Importing milk from South Africa is a challenge as the company has to pay an import levy, which is not sustainable for the country,' De Lange said.

'The Ultra Heat Temperature (UHT) factory will, however, take advantage of and rely on 40 percent import levy on packed UHT (Long Life Milk), which gives locally produced UHT milk a price advantage,' he said.

Late last year, Clover Botswana decided to invest in a brand new combined Long Life Milk and Fresh Milk product plant. The construction of the plant created 35 new jobs taking 10 months to complete.

'One of the benefits of the local plant is that Clover Botswana are now packing Ultramel UHT in 1 litre and 500ml packs that we will be able to deliver to retailers and wholesalers at a significantly lower cost than before,' said De Lange.

'We are very proud and excited to offer a brand with such a long heritage in the country at reasonable prices in these days of financial pressure for all of us.'

De Lange said that the outbreak of Rift Valley Fever and Foot and Mouth Disease did not do much because they continued with production in the midst of fears that the diseases could hinder the circulation of milk.

De Lange said Clover Botswana follows international best practice in all their processes as evidenced by the quality of their products, especially the longevity of their product brands. He said the new building is of world-class standard in terms of layout, technology and quality control.