Abu dhabi: 2PointZero Group, a prominent investment holding firm based in Abu Dhabi, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italy's ISEM Packaging S.r.l. and KEZAD Group, part of AD Ports Group, to explore the establishment of a regional packaging manufacturing facility in Abu Dhabi.
According to Emirates News Agency, the agreement was signed during the Make it in the Emirates forum at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi. This initiative aligns with the United Arab Emirates' industrial strategy and the In-Country Value (ICV) Programme managed by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology. The collaboration aims to define the operational, regulatory, and technical requirements for a packaging facility within KEZAD, adhering to European standards. The plant will target the region's perfume, beauty, luxury gifting, and confectionery sectors in both the UAE and the GCC.
Samia Bouazza, CEO of 2PointZero, emphasized the strategic significance of the MoU, stating that it represents more than just a manufacturing facility. It aims to enhance industrial capacity within the UAE, leveraging ISEM's European quality standards. Anchoring this capability in Abu Dhabi's KEZAD ecosystem is expected to contribute directly to in-country value and bolster supply chain infrastructure for the long term.
KEZAD has been identified as a priority location for the proposed facility, with further steps to be determined. The facility is intended to serve as ISEM's regional manufacturing hub for the UAE and the wider GCC markets. Mohamed Al Khader, CEO of KEZAD Group, highlighted the importance of high-end packaging as a specialized manufacturing segment, requiring precision, skilled production, and reliable infrastructure.
ISEM, headquartered in Trecate, Italy, is known for its high-quality packaging solutions for luxury, beauty, and confectionery clients. The proposed Abu Dhabi facility would extend ISEM's European operating model to the GCC region, allowing for shorter lead times and locally manufactured supplies. Francesco Pintucci, CEO of ISEM Packaging Group, remarked on the growing importance of the UAE and GCC markets for their customers, stating that a regional manufacturing presence is the logical next step.
The MoU is non-binding and reflects the parties' mutual intent to advance the opportunity through further agreements, subject to internal approvals and confirmation of KEZAD as the selected location.