The international manufacturer personal care products, soaps and detergents, has a long history of trading in Africa, concentrating on Nigeria, Ghana and Kenya. The company announced yesterday an approved £18m (€25m) investment programme into its manufacturing facilities in Nigeria, along with continuing investment into its UK factories. The Nigerian investment will involve the relocation and modernisation of its production facilities for the health and beauty business, as well as providing logistical and distribution facilities for the company's electrical goods business. Main brands and products in the country include soaps such as Imperial Leather, the hair care range Venus and toothpaste brands Florish and Minty Fresh. The approval of the £18m investment is backed up by a favourable political and economic climate in Nigeria following the successful political transition to a new democratically elected government, according to the company. In addition, according to the company statement the economic position remains strong with the continued high oil price, further inward foreign investment and a stable currency. Regarding the company's UK presence, PZ Cussons is continuing the construction of its liquids factory to meet the growing supply needs of the UK business. The new factory is to be competed by mid 2008 and will include a new research and development centre and a fragrance development centre. The UK brand portfolio includes Imperial Leather, Original Source, Carex and the newly acquired Charles Worthington brand.
