Unilever Begins Deodorant Stick Production In Saudi Arabia, Supporting Economic Diversification

In a significant move towards bolstering the national economy and industrial sector, Unilever has unveiled its latest deodorant production lines at the Binzagr Unilever Limited (BUL) facility located in Jeddah.

This event marks a pivotal step in strengthening economic diversification and boosting the local industrial capabilities within Saudi Arabia. The ceremony saw the presence of Eng. Abdulaziz bin Majed Al-Ahmadi, Deputy Minister for Industrial Development, alongside numerous dignitaries from various government and industry sectors, showcasing the project's strategic significance.

During the inauguration, Eng. Abdulaziz bin Majed Al-Ahmadi delivered a keynote address, emphasizing the project as a testament to the private sector's dedication to promoting localisation and fortifying the national supply chains. By prioritizing the sourcing of raw materials and packaging from within the country, this initiative is set to stimulate the growth of local industries, minimise import dependency, and align with the National Industrial Strategy's objectives.

The Jeddah based factory, an alliance between Unilever and the Binzagr Group since 1978, now extends its reach to 26 countries across five continents. With the integration of deodorant stick lines, it positions itself as one of the four exclusive Unilever deodorant stick factories worldwide. This facility specializes in manufacturing products for both men and women under the renowned Dove and Rexona brands.

This state-of-the-art facility is equipped with highly automated systems that ensure efficiency and quality in mixing, cooling, filling, and packaging processes. Boasting an impressive annual production capacity of 30 million units, it aims to cater to the Saudi market and export a significant share to international markets.

This venture not only fortifies the national supply chain by localizing essential inputs but also contributes to the growth of Saudi Arabia's non-oil exports and generates skilled employment opportunities for the local workforce.

Shazia Syed, general manager of Unilever's Personal Care Business Group, stated, "This launch is a statement of confidence in Saudi Arabia's industrial future and a proud milestone in our decades-long partnership with the Kingdom."

She further emphasised the significance of embedding the 'Made in Saudi’ seal on Dove and Rexona products, reinforcing the commitment to local supply chains and continuing a legacy that began nearly a century ago.

Unilever, commanding over 40% of the global deodorants market, is home to Dove and Rexona, leading brands in the female and male segments, respectively. With the industry projected to expand significantly, Unilever aims to locally produce a third of its market share in Saudi Arabia, underscoring its commitment to local manufacturing and regional growth.

Beyond its manufacturing endeavours, Unilever's initiatives in Saudi Arabia extend to social impact. The company has engaged in partnerships promoting sports and inclusivity, such as the historic sponsorship of the Saudi Women's National Football Team by Rexona. Similarly, Dove has adapted its global Self-Esteem Project locally, impacting over 30,000 students in Saudi schools, demonstrating Unilever's dedication to empowering the next generation.

The expansion aligns with Unilever’s broader sustainability goals, including its commitment to achieve zero emissions by 2030 and net zero across its value chain by 2039. This initiative not only signifies Unilever’s pledge to sustainable manufacturing but also its long-standing commitment to propelling Saudi Arabia's industrial advancement through continuous local investments.