Despite the financial crisis, Heinz Ferrand Glass is aiming to supply the US container glass market from Peru & will initiate exports before the end of 2008. The company, born of the strategic alliance between Heinz Glass of Germany & Peruvian Ferrand glassworks, began production Dec/08 at its new glass container manufacturing & decoration plant, serving the cosmetics & perfumery sectors. "We have invested US$ 15M to set up the most modern glass plant in South America," said Napoleon Valdez Ferrand, president of the board of directors, adding that the goal for 2009 exports is to reach US$ 10M. "With this plant we will be able to produce 35M bottles/pa, & we expect that over 50% will go to foreign markets." Ulrich Nebe, CEO of Heinz Holding, commented that the German company is confident that the strategic location of Peru will enable it to successfully enter the Latin Am market. "Three years ago we decided to be present in China and Latin America, that's why we partnered with Ferrand and we are confident that we will continue to grow together," he said. Mr. Valdez said that demand for glass is growing at a rate of 25% per annum and is expected to maintain this pace.
