With an objective to enhance production capacity to effectively meet ever increasing consumer demand, Saudia Dairy and Foodstuff Company (SADAFCO), a leading manufacturer of an extensive range of dairy and foodstuff items has announced the completion of the re-opening of its production facility in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. Located in Dammam's Industrial City and spread over an area of 22 500 m?, the factory was built in 1980. It was closed in 2006 as part of a national consolidation of operations by SADAFCO. Work to reopen the factory started towards the end of 2011 and the first production in the new factory started in August 2012 with Crispy Snacks being the first to come off the line. Now the factory manufactures the Crispy Snacks range of Super Rings and Letters as well as Saudia Tomato Paste and Saudia Feta Cheese. Wout Matthijs, Chief Executive Officer SADAFCO said, “The initial search into avenues for capacity expansion resulted in the decision being taken to re-open the manufacturing facility in Dammam, previously closed in 2006 due to company-wide consolidation measures.” “The process to fully operationalize the Dammam facility commenced in the third quarter of 2011-12 and the reopening of the Dammam factory has allowed us to increase our manufacturing capabilities in Jeddah to introduce new and exciting products which will soon be introduced to the consumers.” SADAFCO's Dammam Factory has reopened with a staff complement of 94. This includes 69 Saudi females; thereby placing the current Saudization level of the re-opened facility at 74%, which is the Platinum Status on the Nitaqat scale. Recruitment is on-going for this facility and focus will remain on ensuring high levels of Saudi representation in the workforce. – SG
