Post by : Badri Ariffin

Solico Group, a prominent player in the Middle East food industry, has made a significant stride in its regional operations with the inauguration of the SoFood facility, a tailored AED 130 million ($35.4 million) production hub located in Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza). This state-of-the-art facility serves as Solico's central point for innovation and international production within the GCC, representing the company's most considerable investment in the UAE so far.

Occupying a 5,000 m² area, the SoFood facility is built for adaptability, allowing quick entry into various food segments without compromising operations. With an initial production capacity of up to 40 tons per day, it is supported by advanced European manufacturing techniques.

Gholamali Soleimani, the Founder and Group Chairman of Solico Group, commented, “The UAE's food manufacturing ecosystem is vibrant and evolving. This investment not only solidifies our role in the region but also bolsters food security while embodying the foundational values established by my family over five decades ago.”

Renowned for establishing the first milk refinery in Central Asia, Solico will leverage its expertise in modern manufacturing and innovation within the UAE. This facility is poised to support the nation’s industrial progression, boost domestic production, and transition supply chains from simpler trading frameworks to value-added initiatives.

The initial phase of SoFood aims to specialize in meat and protein production under Solico's flagship brand, Pemina, with distribution lines stretching across the GCC and participating international markets. Subsequent expansions will introduce cheese, dairy products, sauces, and co-packed solutions targeting hotels, airlines, and food service operators, selected for their regional significance and potential for localization.

In addition, SoFood will function as Solico's regional innovation hub, customizing offerings to align with Middle Eastern preferences, enhancing supply chain efficiency, and promoting local job creation and skill enhancement.

His Excellency Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, stated: “Solico's substantial investment in Jafza showcases Dubai's robust manufacturing ecosystem. This facility will not only augment food security but also generate high-quality jobs and foster value-addition in manufacturing throughout the UAE.”

Focused on sustainable practices, the facility incorporates energy-efficient and water-conserving systems, waste-reduction processes, and has achieved multiple certifications including ISO 22000, HACCP, Halal, and Dubai Municipality Grade A.

Nestled within the DP World-managed Jebel Ali ecosystem, SoFood enjoys direct access to global logistics routes, enabling Solico to connect with over 3 billion consumers in nearby markets, further supporting the UAE’s “Make it in the Emirates” initiative.

#Global News #Dubai