P&G allots P2.2B for plant expansion

MANILA, Philippines - Procter & Gamble (P&G) is investing P2.2 billion to double the capacity of its distribution plant in Cabuyao in Laguna as it seeks to grow its business in the country.

“We are making substantial investment of $50 million or P2.2 billion to expand our distribution center,” P&G Asia product supply vice president Ed Hunter said in a press conference yesterday.

The investment, he said, would double the distribution center’s current capacity.

“The distribution center is important because we need additional capacity to support growing business here,” he said.

P&G general manager Sumeet Vohra said in the same event putting up additional infrastructure in the facility is expected to be completed in 2014.

Earlier this year, the firm already invested P3 billion for the same facility to expand its supply chain.

The plant produces the detergent brands Tide, Ariel and Bonux, as well as fabric conditioner Downy, dishwashing soap Joy, disposable baby diapers Pampers and disposable feminine napkins Whisper.

Hunter said the firm is making the additional investment to the distribution center as it expects higher sales in the country amid strong economic growth.

“Clearly we see growth. Economy is good and that provides opportunity to serve more consumers,” he said.

Vohra said the firm’s business in the Philippines has been growing significantly over the last two years.

“We enjoyed healthy growth last year. The last two years have been very strong. In our 77 years history (here), that is the strongest growth we’ve seen,” he said.

Hunter also said the firm is putting additional funds in the country as it has confidence in the government which provides an environment conducive for business.

He said the firm is likewise putting an additional investment given the availability of Filipino talent in the country.