Unilever starts construction of largest distribution center in Philippines

MANILA, Philippines - Consumer goods giant Unilever has commenced construction of the largest distribution center in the Philippines, which forms part of the company’s six-year P6 billion investment commitment in the country.

Spanning 13.7 hectares, the distribution center is located at the heart of Luzon’s manufacturing and industrial hub in Cabuyao, Laguna which will house 130,000  pallets and 97 loading docks.

“Building a mega distribution center is a key strategy to achieve Unilever Philippines’ growth trajectory for the next three years. As a purpose-driven company, it allows us to streamline our operations, accelerate delivery of goods, create economies of scale, and generate jobs in the local market. This is a landmark development for us as we mark our 90th year of doing business in the Philippines,” Unilever Philippines chairman Benjie Yap said.

The distribution center is expected to facilitate the distribution and transport of Unilever’s products from its manufacturing sites in Cavite and Paco, Manila, which are 33 kilometers and 35 kilometers away from the center, respectively.

It is also accessible to alternative ports in Batangas for vessels heading to Visayas and Mindanao, addressing potential delays as a result of congestion in Manila’s ports.

Unilever said the center showcases future-ready facilities as well as paperless warehouse management systems and safety-compliant storage systems to ensure efficient and sustainable operations.

The facility is expected to be fully operational by October this year.

“The continued growth of the Philippine economy, backed by strong domestic consumption and a vibrant retail market, opens a lot of possibilities for Unilever. Despite global uncertainty, we remain optimistic regarding our presence in the Filipino home. Our expansion is indicative of our continued commitment to invest in the health, hygiene, and well-being of Filipinos,” Yap said.

In 2015, Unilever announced it would invest an estimated 100 million euros or about P6 billion in the Philippines over a period of six years.

As a leading fast-moving consumer goods company in the Philippines, Unilever continues to expand its reach in retail for its products in personal care, foods, home care, and refreshments.