R100M investment fuels Vaseline expansion in South Africa for Unilever

Madison Clarke 10/07/2026

The manufacturing landscape in Durban is getting a serious glow-up, as a major global player makes a significant investment aimed at securing the future of a beloved staple. Unilever has poured R100 million into expanding its Vaseline production line at its historic Maydon Wharf factory, transforming it into a powerhouse for global supply.

This isn’t just a routine upgrade; it’s a strategic maneuver. The investment immediately boosts the facility’s capacity, pushing its production capacity from 60 percent to 80 percent of the global supply of Vaseline Petroleum Jelly. This expansion ensures that South Africa plays an even larger role in supplying this essential product to both African and international markets.

The heart of this growth lies in the long-established Maydon Wharf site, a facility that boasts a rich history dating back to 1912. Now, this landmark location is being modernized to handle the demands of modern global production while maintaining its deep roots in the community. The project involved a massive undertaking, bringing in 68 engineering and fabrication teams alongside state-of-the-art German and Italian equipment.

Beyond the machinery, the investment is deeply committed to the local economy. The facility, which already employs approximately 350 full-time staff and 200 freelancers, is now poised to become an even stronger manufacturing hub. A key focus is local sourcing: Unilever is dramatically increasing the proportion of materials sourced locally in South Africa, aiming to reach 80 percent by 2025.

This commitment solidifies South Africa’s position within Unilever’s sprawling global beauty and personal care manufacturing network. By concentrating a significant portion of worldwide Vaseline Petroleum Jelly production in Durban, the move drives increased capacity, promotes local sourcing, and enhances export-oriented manufacturing capabilities.

Ultimately, this initiative is more than just a factory expansion; it is a powerful demonstration of how industrial investment can strengthen local economies, preserve heritage sites, and position a nation at the forefront of global supply chains for essential consumer goods.