Accra Brewery embarks on $100m expansion project

Accra Brewery Limited (ABL), a subsidiary of SAB Miller Plc, is embarking on a $100 million expansion project to help double the capacity of production.

The expansion project, estimated to be executed over a period of 12 to 24 months, entails the construction of two new state of the art packaging lines, a new warehouse, material storage areas and waste treatment plant.

“The expansion project is expected to increase the company’s capacity to meet sales growth over the next five years and will include the construction of a modern office complex, installation of new packaging lines for beer and soft drinks, a waste water treatment plant, upgrades to brewing capability and warehousing space,” Mr Gregory Metcalf, ABL Managing Director said.

Dubbed Project Everest, Mr Metcalf said the critical phase of the project, would be completed by October 2014.

He said the project would offer employment for both skilled and unskilled labour during the various phases until completion.

“There are a number of positive economic impacts associated with this project. It is a win-win situation for us as a business, the government and the people of Ghana,” Mr Metcalf said.

He appealed to government to take a further look at the tax regime, especially on those affecting manufacturing companies and provide some incentives for local industries.

“Such a move will encourage businesses such as ours to continue to exist and provide additional employment avenues to Ghanaians and thus contribute to the socio-economic development of the country,” Mr Metcalf.

In a speech read on his behalf, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Trade and Industry, commended ABL for the expansion project and the faith in the Ghanaian economy, adding that it would serve as an example to other investors to also come to Ghana and invest in manufacturing.

The more local raw materials ABL purchases, the more money our local farmers make,” Mr Iddrisu said.

Source: GNA