HARARE — Zimbabwean dairy processor Dairibord Holdings has invested US$500,000 in a new ice cream production line as it moves to increase output and capitalise on growing consumer demand for frozen products.
The production line, commissioned at the company’s Rekayi Tangwena facility, will double manufacturing capacity for its Cool Summer Stars range, which includes Nutty Squirrel, Skippy Choc, SuperSplit, Bigga Bear, Monsta Mouse, Plus20 and Green Giant.
The investment comes as Dairibord reports stronger sales volumes, particularly in its food business, where demand for ice cream and yoghurt has contributed to growth.
According to a company statement, cumulative sales volumes increased by 23% to 119.85 million litres during the nine months ended September 30, 2026, following US$11.8 million in capital expenditure during 2025.
The food segment recorded a 26% increase in volumes over the same period, driven partly by strong demand for ice cream and yoghurt in the third quarter.
Dairibord said the additional production capacity would help it improve supplies to supermarkets, informal traders and vendors across Zimbabwe.
The expansion is also expected to support profitability, with ice cream falling within the company’s highest-margin product category.
Group chief executive Mercy Ndoro said the investment reflected growing confidence in the domestic market.
“This commissioning is a clear statement of intent. Consumer demand for our ice cream continues to grow, and we are investing decisively to ensure consistent product availability across all retail channels,” Ndoro said.
The company has been investing in manufacturing capacity as it seeks to expand its market presence and improve operational efficiency.
Ndoro said future capital expenditure would focus on projects capable of increasing production and strengthening returns.
“Capacity expansion remains central to our strategy. We are building the operational scale required to meet demand, strengthen our competitive position, and deliver sustainable value for our shareholders,” she said.
The latest investment adds to Dairibord’s ongoing expansion programme as the company seeks to translate rising consumer demand into higher sales volumes and improved profit margins.
