With the festive openings of two state-of-the-art factories in Tilisi, Kenya and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, Skanem Africa is expanding its footprint across East Africa. We remain committed to enhancing customer service through innovative and sustainable solutions.
The official openings of Skanem Africa’s Tilisi factory (12 November) and Dar es Salaam factory (14 November) were meticulously planned events that showcased the company’s commitment to excellence and customer care. The events truly demonstrated the scope of what customers can expect from Skanem as a business partner.
A grand celebration of a major milestone in Tilisi
With the weather gods on our side and approximately 300 attendees – including customers, staff, and management – the official opening of the new IFC EDGE-certified factory in Tilisi, Kenya, was a proud reflection of Skanem’s progress.
Guests were greeted at a registration desk and given access to ushers. They also enjoyed speeches from company representatives as well as a meet-and-greet photo session, food and non-alcoholic beverages, and entertainment by a master of ceremonies. Additional security measures ensured a safe and smooth celebration.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was the true highlight of the day, accompanied by a spectacular pyro display, marking the factory’s official opening. Some of Skanem’s key leaders participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony, from the left:
- Skanem Group CEO, Maryne Lemvik
- Skanem Board Member, Ole Kristian Rugland
- The Chairman of the Kenya Association of Manufacturers (KAM), Jane Karuku
- Skanem Africa CEO, Sachen Gudka
- The Royal Norwegian Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Gunnar Andreas Holm
- Board Advisor, Deepak Shah
- Skanem Executive Chairman, Ole Rugland
Factory tour
Guests also partook in a guided factory tour with Skanem’s leaders, which included stops at different sections, including:
- Printing
- Packaging
- Finished Goods
- Offices
- Canteen
Health and safety pamphlets, vests, and hairnets were handed out prior to the tour. Before leaving, all guests received a goodie bag containing a tote bag, notebook, pen, and phone stand.
Vibrant opening ceremony in Dar es Salaam
With a green-themed setup, the festive opening of the factory in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, symbolized Skanem’s brand vision and commitment to sustainability. Despite its smaller scale, the event echoed the same diligent planning and customer focus as in Tilisi, with all 80 registered guests attending.
After speeches from Skanem’s representatives and distinguished guests, the ribbon-cutting ceremony took centre stage. This time, it was celebrated with a green cake and additional photo sessions. Norway's Deputy Head of Mission, Kjetil Schie (far right), had the honour of cutting the ribbon.
Safety equipment was also handed out here for a factory tour. Guests had access to a photo booth, received gifts, and enjoyed food and refreshments throughout the event.
Read more: Skanem Africa expands operations with Uganda warehouse
Eliminating barriers and empowering brands across East Africa
Our objective, with the recent expansions in Tanzania and Uganda and relocating to the new factory in Tilisi, is to remove friction points between Skanem and local businesses. This may be most evident in Tanzania, though it will depend on demand.
We are now closer to our customers and are able to provide better customer service in existing and new markets in:
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Kenya
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
As a brand owner, one of the main changes you may notice moving forward is enhanced business continuity. If an issue occurs at one facility, another one of our plants can be mobilized to ensure that your labels are printed and reach the store shelves in a timely manner.
Creating sustainable labelling solutions remains a top priority, aligning with customers’ needs and goals. We are more capable now than ever of tackling labelling and packaging hurdles with innovative, eco-friendly solutions within all product segments and industries.
