UNILEVER INVESTMENT STRENGTHENS DURBAN’S SUPPLY CHAIN
By Chelsea Morford
Unilever South Africa’s R100 million investment in its Maydon Wharf manufacturing facility strengthens Durban’s industrial ecosystem, supporting local suppliers, skilled workers and service providers throughout the supply chain.
Launched on 2 October 2026, the new production line increases capacity at a site responsible for approximately 60% of Unilever’s global Vaseline Petroleum Jelly output. The 20% production capacity increase will support African and international markets, reinforcing Durban’s role in global manufacturing.
“Localisation is not only about where products are made. It’s about building local capabilities, widening economic participation, and creating stronger pathways for South African suppliers to grow. Manufacturing investment has a multiplier effect,” says Stefan Cloete, Chief Executive Officer of Southern Africa, Unilever.
Operating since 1912, Maydon Wharf is an established part of Durban’s industrial landscape. Its operations depend on businesses supplying packaging, engineering, equipment, transport and warehousing services. More than 95% of the packaging materials used at the facility are sourced locally. This supports South African manufacturers, logistics providers and engineering contractors, helping businesses retain employees, develop skills and invest in their operations.
The benefits extend beyond direct suppliers to the wider network of businesses that support them. Consistent demand from a major manufacturer provides greater stability, enabling suppliers to plan ahead, retain skilled workers and pursue growth. Although the R100 million investment does not specify additional jobs, it reinforces the industrial ecosystem supporting employment both inside and beyond the factory.
The expansion introduces a fourth Vaseline Petroleum Jelly packing line, supported by a new process plant and increased bulk storage capacity. Approximately 100 tons of equipment and structural steel were installed, combining specialised machinery from Germany and Italy with the expertise of local engineering teams. This collaboration strengthens the technical capabilities required to operate and maintain complex manufacturing systems. The investment also demonstrates the importance of reliable industrial infrastructure. Maydon Wharf ’s proximity to the Port of Durban supports the movement of raw materials, packaging and finished products, connecting local production with regional and international markets.
For KwaZulu-Natal, the expansion reinforces the manufacturing base and the network of businesses that depend on it. For South Africa, it demonstrates how local sourcing and export-oriented production can connect domestic suppliers to global demand.
For more information, visit www.unilever.co.za
