The Managing Director (MD) of Unilever Ghana, Mr. Chris Wulff-Caesar, has clarified that the decision to transfer its tea production operations to another company abroad was a global strategy unrelated to the economic conditions in Ghana.
He emphasized that Unilever Ghana began executing this global strategic decision in 2021, initiated by its parent company, Unilever Global PLC.
The objective behind this move was to enhance operational efficiencies and streamline focus on core activities.
“The Tea operation leaving Ghana has nothing to do with dumsor or activities in Ghana. It is a strategic global decision.
“Sometime in 2019, we had to let go of our oils and spread business to another company next door to us. And this is all part of a global strategy to focus on certain core categories within the organisation,” the MD explained during a media engagement.
The responsibility for Unilever’s tea operations within the sub-region has now shifted to Lipton Teas and Infusions Plant Based Limited, Nigeria, formerly known as Ekaterra Plant Based Limited.
Mr. Wulff-Caesar reiterated Unilever Ghana’s commitment to the country, highlighting ongoing investments in manufacturing, product research, and marketing activities.
With a workforce of approximately 700 employees, Unilever Ghana remains deeply rooted in the Ghanaian economy and has no plans to relocate operations.
“We have been for over what, 100 years and we have never shirked away from our responsibility, playing our part in the development of the economy of Ghana.
“I do remember that many years ago, Unilever used to contribute to about one and half per cent of the economy of Ghana, but the economy of Ghana has grown,” he said.
While multinational companies have announced exits from Ghana due to economic challenges and revenue policies, Mr. Wulff-Caesar emphasized that Unilever Ghana’s decision is part of a broader global strategy and should not be interpreted as a response to local economic conditions.