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Kiyapili Sibanda Business Reporter—
DIVERSIFIED Bulawayo-based manufacturer, Arenel, says it will soon be producing syrups. Managing director, Mr Joshua Lepac said the production of six flavours of syrups was expected to start this month. “As Arenel we want to fully utilise the machinery we have hence the launch of this new product,” said Mr Lepac.

He said if the syrups do well, the company will boost production by investing in plant and equipment and this will also create more jobs.

Mr Lepac said the company which partnered United Refineries to produce Roil Mayonnaise, was seeking similar joint ventures.

He said the company was already negotiating with the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) with a view to jointly produce another product.

“Our negotiations with GMB are on the early stages and we have not finalised anything with them. We want to take advantage of the abundant raw materials following the bumper maize harvest this year,” said Mr Lepac.

He said the company apart from producing for the local market, was also exporting its biscuits to South Africa and earning the much needed foreign currency.

Last year, the company commissioned its snack plant at a cost of $2 million and it has invested $6 million in recapitalisation of its sweets, biscuits and distribution arms since 2009. — @Kiyaz_Cool.