Page 14 - Food Empire - Annual Report 2013

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Executive Chairman’s Message
to have capabilities to blend and pack a
range of products such as instant coffee
mixes, cappuccinos, ice teas, chocolate
drinks and pure coffee in jars and sachets.
Proximity to Port Klang was a key factor
in the location for out packing plant as
most raw materials will be imported from
overseas and finished goods will be
exported to various countries. The plant
has a capacity to produce about
25,000 tons of finished goods a year.
These initiatives entail significant capital
expenditure spending and start-up
costs, but will put the Group in a position
to operate more competitively in the
years ahead. Once the new facilities are
completed and operational, we will have
greater flexibility and control over the
supply and prices of our key ingredients,
which will in turn mitigate the uncertainties
of commodity prices.
Expanding our reach
We continue to look for suitable M&A
opportunities, which will complement our
brand and distribution activities within the
food and beverage industry. On the organic
front, outside of our top three country
markets in the CIS, we are looking into
Southeast Asia as well as the Middle East
and Africa.
2014 is going to be another year of
uncertainty due to the tapering program
by the Federal Reserve. There could be
further volatility in equity, commodity
and the currency markets. Whatever
happens, we must continue to encourage
entrepreneurship and innovation amidst
strong teamwork. We have to uphold our
mantra which is to be a leading global food
and beverage company providing quality
products and services.
In Appreciation
In these uncertain times, I thank our
shareholders for their continued support
and belief. Our customers, suppliers,
partners and associates have been an
integral part of our success and I will like to
express my gratitude to them.
Finally, to my fellow Board members and
all the staff at Food Empire, I will take this
opportunity to thank you for another great
year and journey together.
Mr Tan Wang Cheow
Executive Chairman
Food Empire’s product showcase at the Anuga Fair in Cologne
Sourced from tea plantations of the Highlands of Sri Lanka,
Hillway is the Group’s latest premium quality tea offering.
Food Empire Holdings Limited Annual Report 2013
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