SP Brewery unveils K8m infrastructure in Lae

South Pacific Brewery has commissioned two major infrastructure projects valued at K8 million at its Lae operations in Morobe.

The developments, officially opened on Friday evening, include a state-of-the-art warehouse facility and a 1.1-megawatt peak [MWp] solar energy system.

SP Brewery managing director Ed Weggeman said Morobe is strategically important to the company’s national footprint as the province hosts their largest brewery facility.

Weggeman said the Lae operation currently employs 119 local staff, predominantly from Morobe and surrounding communities.

"Morobe province’s strategic location has significantly benefited our business over the years," Weggeman said. "The solar project is an important milestone in SP Brewery’s net-zero journey, because we believe we will only thrive when our people thrive.

"The new warehouse facility will contribute to the local community by strengthening our distribution and sales capabilities."

Weggeman added that the logistical upgrade would directly benefit small-to-medium enterprises [SMEs], which form the backbone of the company’s local client base.

He said serving these essential businesses better would help stimulate economic growth, trade, and commercial opportunities across the province.

The green energy component of the investment, the 1.1MWp solar project, was completed over a six-month construction period, shifting towards sustainable manufacturing in the region.

Morobe Provincial Chairman for Commerce Jason Tobem joined Weggeman to officially unveil the plaque to commemorate the opening.