Unilever, one of the world's leading fast moving consumer goods company, is on track with its plan to build a $272-million new manufacturing facility in Dubai, UAE.

The company has appointed Turner & Townsend, a leading professional services company, to provide full project and cost management services for the construction of the factory, a statement said.

Turner & Townsend is also in charge of planning and contract administration services, supporting the procurement strategy, ensuring effective value engineering, and risk management processes.

Unilever, a leader in building world-class factories with minimal environmental impact, is designing the new facility in line with its Sustainable Living Plan. For example, it will send zero waste to landfill. This is similar to Unilever’s Lipton Jebel Ali Factory, in Jebel Ali Free Zone.

The new factory will enable Unilever to expand its innovative personal care products business across Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region and create as many as 400 jobs.

Mike Collings, managing director, Middle East for Turner & Townsend, said: "As the UAE continues to diversify into non-oil sectors, this project represents a significant investment in the region’s manufacturing industries - a venture we are proud to be a part of.”

Ahmed Kadous, supply chain director at Unilever Gulf, added: “Our decision to continue investing in Dubai was the result of the steady rise in demand for quality personal care products in the region."

"In addition, the new facility will assist us in achieving our long-term vision; doubling the size of our business while halving our environmental footprint," he added. - TradeArabia News Service