New plant in Joure, the Netherlands, to boost capacity by 50%
UTRECHT (November 6, 2008) - Sara Lee will invest $80 million in its coffee extraction capacity at its facilities in Joure, the Netherlands, over the next two years. By doing so, it boosts the plant’s capacity for producing instant coffee and liquids by 50% and positions for growth in the liquid coffee and instants markets worldwide.
Sara Lee's instant coffees are sold in stores globally under flagship brands such as Moccona, Marcilla and Douwe Egberts. Its liquid coffee, or Cafitesse, focuses on the out-of-home market with key brand names such as Douwe Egberts, Maison du Café, Marcilla, and Merrild.
The new plant is expected to be fully operational in 2010 and will then produce instant coffee for the UK, Australia, Russia, and Poland, among other countries, as well as liquid coffee for the international out-of-home market.
"I am thrilled to announce this investment", said Frank van Oers, CEO International Beverage at Sara Lee. "We have ambitious plans in place in many growth markets worldwide, and this investment will enable us to realize our growth plans."
About Sara Lee Corporation
Each and every day, Sara Lee (NYSE: SLE) delights millions of consumers and customers around the world. The company has one of the world's best-loved and leading portfolios with its innovative and trusted food, beverage, household and body care brands, including Ambi Pur, Ball Park, Douwe Egberts, Hillshire Farm, Jimmy Dean, Kiwi, Sanex, Sara Lee and Senseo. In fiscal 2008, Sara Lee generated more than $13 billion in net sales across approximately 200 countries. The Sara Lee community consists of 44,000 employees worldwide. Please visit www.saralee.com for the latest news and in-depth information about Sara Lee and its brands.
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