Bano Puratos, the leading Belgian-Lebanese manufacturer and supplier of innovative products of raw materials, utensils and machinery for the industries of Chocolate, Bakery, Pastry, and Ice cream, has announced new expansion plans to double its monthly production capacity from 300 tonnes to 600 tonne and increase its list of products from 45 to 150 during the upcoming year 2022.

Bano’s production capacity will also triple in 2023 to reach 900 tonnes, in yet another testament to Sharjah’s leading position, becoming one of the best investment hubs in the world. Earlier last year, Pano Puratos has established the region’s largest production facility in the Sharjah Airport International Free Zone (SAIF Zone) with investments estimated at Dhs20 million.

SAIF Zone affirmed that the company’s expansion plans in Sharjah reflect the quality of facilities and privileges being provided by the free zone, which is widely known for its unique business environment conducive for business growth and expansion, state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class logistics services, strategic location and proximity to airports and global markets.

Leading a high-profile delegation from the free zone, Saud Salim Al Mazrouei, Director of SAIF Zone, visited the 17,250 square-feet Bano factory, lauding the quality of products manufactured by the company.

“The growing interest of international companies to base their operations in Sharjah, particularly in the SAIF Zone, proves once again that our attractive facilities, exceptional services and privileges are unparalleled and can effectively support the aspirations of businesses in achieving their economic goals,” Al Mazrouei said.

“Despite the modernity of its factory, Bano decided to further expand its operations, something which highlights the efficiency of investments in SAIF Zone. This also means the company will be better equipped to meet the growing demand on its products and solutions associated with the food industry not only locally but also in regional markets,” he added.

“We, in the free zone, are committed to providing all investors with exceptional facilities and services that would catapult their businesses into new heights of growth and expansion, in line with the wise directives of Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who has always been keen to consolidate the emirate’s position as an ideal destination for international companies and institutions in all fields of work,” Al Mazrouei stressed.

“With that in mind, SAIF Zone is doing its utmost to support the emirate’s economic diversification plans and sustainable growth, in particular, consolidate Sharjah’s position as a global hub for quality industries and promote the UAE’s national strategy for industry and advanced technology,” he further said, stressing that the free zone will remain resolved on providing the best services to investors and harnessing all capabilities to help them expand and upgrade their businesses and serve their customers in the world.

For his part, Rayan Mohsen, Director-General of Bano Puratos in the UAE, lauded the unique business environment, quality of services and facilities being provided by the free zone, which were the reason behind the company’s decision to set up its largest branch in the Middle East.

“The UAE’s management of the Covid-19 pandemic and the economic incentives provided by the government have been impressive and accelerated the economic recovery and revitalised the markets,” Mohsen said, adding that the company’s investments in Sharjah come as part of an integrated plan aimed at keeping pace with the growing demand for its products and expanding its operations to the western markets.

“Bano’s production facility in SAIF Zone commenced operations last February and is fully automated. It has been equipped with the latest storage, preservation and transportation technologies in accordance with the highest international and local standards in terms of effective safety, specifications and health requirements.

The factory produces materials used in the manufacture of cakes, muffins, and baked goods and currently employs about 40 workers and technicians. It houses a research laboratory to measure and develop the quality of products and provide innovative solutions for the bakery industry and is currently working on developing nutritional solutions for organic products, and gluten-free products,” Mohsen stated.