Unilever To Invest $1.5 Billion In Mexico, Building Major Factory In Nuevo León

Consumer goods giant Unilever has announced a major investment in Mexico, committing $1.5 billion (30 billion pesos) over the next three years to expand its production capacity in the country. A significant portion of that investment, about $407 million (8 billion pesos), will go toward constructing a new manufacturing facility in Salinas Victoria, Nuevo León.

The new plant will focus on producing beauty and personal care products under popular brands such as Dove, Rexona, and Sedal, with the goal of exporting much of its output.

Unilever aims for the new facility to be recognized as a “Lighthouse” factory—a distinction given to manufacturing sites that use advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

"This new plant will be a benchmark for innovation and sustainability, incorporating cutting-edge technologies in line with our commitment to the environment," said Reginaldo Ecclissato, Unilever’s Chief Business Operations and Supply Chain Officer.

The factory is expected to create around 1,200 new jobs and will play a vital role in Unilever’s North American supply chain.

Nuevo León Governor Samuel García also welcomed the investment, emphasizing its potential to stimulate the regional economy and enhance the state's role in the global supply chain.

“This project reinforces Nuevo León as a key player in the international manufacturing landscape,” García said. “We are thrilled to welcome Unilever and support its growth in our state.”

Construction on the facility is expected to begin soon, with operations planned to start within the next few years.

Unilever COO Willem Uijen and Unilever Mexico Director Mildred Villegas announced the investment during President Sheinbaum’s Friday morning press conference.

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About Unilever

Unilever is a global consumer goods company headquartered in London and Rotterdam, known for producing a wide range of food, beverage, cleaning, and personal care products. With a presence in over 190 countries, Unilever owns some of the world’s most recognizable brands, including Dove, Lipton, Knorr, Hellmann’s, Rexona, and Ben & Jerry’s.

The company emphasizes sustainability and social responsibility as core aspects of its business strategy, aiming to reduce its environmental footprint while improving health and well-being around the world. With over 100,000 employees globally, Unilever remains one of the largest and most influential players in the consumer goods industry.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Dr. Stephen Goldsmith, an economist specializing in labor markets, emphasizes that Unilever's investment in Nuevo León reflects a broader trend in multinational companies recognizing Mexico's strategic advantages.

His research highlights how such investments can stimulate local economies and create high-value jobs, especially in the manufacturing sector.

Goldsmith notes that the creation of 1,200 jobs is not only beneficial for those positions but can also have a ripple effect, enhancing local businesses and infrastructure.

Unilever has had a presence in Mexico for more than 60 years and currently employs over 7,000 people.

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Strengthening Mexico’s Role in Global Manufacturing

Unilever has had a presence in Mexico for more than 60 years and currently employs over 7,000 people across its facilities in Mexico City, the State of Mexico, and Morelos. This latest investment deepens the company's long-term commitment to the country and underscores Mexico's growing strategic importance for global manufacturers.

“This investment reflects our confidence in Mexico and its potential as a hub for manufacturing and innovation,” said Reginaldo Ecclissato.

The announcement aligns with the federal government’s “Plan México,” a strategic initiative designed to attract domestic and foreign investment, promote industrial development, and support job creation.

María del Sol Rumayor, director of ProMéxico Global, praised the investment as a sign of Mexico’s competitiveness.

“This is a clear example of how Mexico continues to position itself as a strategic destination for high-value investments.”

As consumer demand shifts toward sustainable and ethical products, experts like Arianna Huffington suggest that companies like Unilever can enhance their strategies by investing in community engagement.

Building relationships with local stakeholders can foster goodwill and align corporate practices with community values, ensuring long-term success.

Additionally, implementing employee training programs focused on sustainability can further enhance their brand reputation, as consumers increasingly favor companies with responsible practices. This approach not only benefits the community but also bolsters employee morale and retention.

Moving Forward: Actionable Steps

Investing in local economies through manufacturing facilities, as Unilever is doing, serves as a model for sustainable growth. Dr. Pasi Sahlberg, an education expert, notes that such initiatives can create a more skilled workforce, which is essential for future innovation.

By focusing not just on job creation but also on community development and employee training, companies can foster an ecosystem of resilience. This holistic approach ensures that both the business and the community thrive, ultimately leading to more sustainable economic growth.