Unbearable costs: table, sachet water producer closes Enugu store
The Association of Table Water Producers (ATWAP) has announced the closure and suspension of production at all water production plants in Enugu State due to unbearably high production costs.
This was contained in a statement issued by ATWAP Enugu State Chapter Chairman, Mr. Tony Edike, and Secretary of State, Sir Clems Nwamadi, in Enugu State on Sunday.
The statement was issued after members of ATWAP Enugu State chapter held an emergency meeting in Enugu on February 8, 2024 on the challenges facing all members of the association.
According to the report, from Monday, February 12, 2024 (tomorrow) to Thursday, February 15, 2024, all table water producers in Enugu State, including sachets and plastic bottles, shall suspend equipment and cease all production. It needs to be stopped.
“This is to enable our members to explore viable solutions to the many challenges they face,” the statement said.
“The current difficult economic conditions in the country, particularly those affecting the supply of materials and other logistics for producing sachet water in the state, have come under severe review.
“We had to come to this decision after several hours of deliberation regarding the overwhelming challenges facing ATWAP member countries, in particular the more than 500 percent increase in prices for raw materials and other factors of production. .
“Following a 500 percent increase in the price of raw materials including nylon, parking bags, purification materials, water sourcing from out-of-town wells, diesel, high electricity costs, haulage/transportation, and other maintenance and labor costs. , had to close the store.
“Also, increased fees charged by both state and local government agencies within our scope of practice are also contributing factors.”
ATWAP, which received field reports from various zones of the association, indicated that rising material costs and other production challenges have led to increased production rates among its members and many producers to close factories. announced.
According to the statement, ATWAP Enugu State Chapter hereby resolves: “From February 16, 2024, one sachet of water (20 sachets) to farmers to help them sustain their businesses and save their businesses/investments. from a complete collapse.
“The violators/violators of this resolution unanimously approved by all members of ATWAP Enugu State Chapter shall be given 200,000 yen per truck/driver caught by the ATWAP Special Committee which has already been mandated to conduct the exercise. You will have to pay a fine of Naira.
“Members will be mobilizing staff to clean equipment and maintain a clean environment during the factory closure period as the task force will soon begin factory inspections to ensure Members are adhering to standard operating procedures. We advise you to do so.”
However, the statement called for cooperation, saying, “We ask for the understanding of our dealers and consumers so that we (the producer) can continue our business during this period.''
Source: guardian.ng