The new factory line will produce Signal, a leading oral care brand and comes as additional investment to the soap, detergent and Knorr manufacturing plants inaugurated by Unilever in 2016 and 2017 respectively,
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Bruno Witvoet, Unilever Africa President, reiterated Unilever’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s local economy through increased direct investments.
“From today we will see locally produced Signal toothpaste coming out of a world class oral care plant and, even better, we are inaugurating it with a 100% female workforce. The rising incidence of tooth decay is one of the major reasons kids miss school and increases medical fees for families. We can help stop that and nothing represents our Unilever values better than helping build an economy through a locally manufactured global brand like Signal with a strong purpose at its heart” said Bruno.
The habit of brushing with toothpaste and toothbrush ranks lowest in Ethiopia compared to other countries in the world. Tooth cavity is the most widespread disease in the world and over the years, this issue has also become prevalent in Ethiopia. Unilever hopes to change these statistics and today’s move will go a long way in bringing to life it’s big goal of helping Ethiopians take action of improving their health and wellbeing.
The new line is being commissioned by a 100% female crew, another first and very symbolic statement reflecting on Unilever’s high commitment to drive diversity agenda in Ethiopia.
About Unilever Ethiopia
Unilever is one of the leading suppliers of food, home and personal care products in Ethiopia. Unilever Manufacturing PLC was established in 2015 in Ethiopia and is already supporting a growing network of Ethiopian suppliers, distributors and traders. The company continues to add capacity in local manufacturing in Ethiopia, after onshoring Soaps, Detergent Powders and Bouillons.
Source: Unilever