TWENTY-FIVE years ago, a KwaZulu-Natal family launched a small enterprise with the goal of becoming Africas largest manufacturer of disposable hygiene products. Today, Cleopatra has a significantly expanded workforce and supplies millions of nappies each month to Shoprite, Checkers and Usave supermarkets across Africa.
Now, were embarking on what is probably the biggest innovation in our business to date, said Yuraaz Osman, a director of Cleopatra.
Following the installation of our new high-speed diaper plant, we have just launched Lovies Ultra, making premium diapers both affordable and accessible to consumers from all walks of life, Osman added.
Having started its journey in a 1 500-square-metre facility, Cleopatra now operates from a vast 15 000-square-metre factory and warehouse space.
Since partnering with the Shoprite Group we have grown our staff complement from around 10 to 170 and if all goes well that will expand over the next year by another 30%. We have also been able to stay ahead of market trends, expand our product range, and invest in cutting-edge technology, Osman said.
