Food Tech Valley, Spinneys ink partnership to build new food processing facility

emirates7 - Food Tech Valley, a government-led initiative in the UAE aimed at creating a sustainable food ecosystem, has announced a major development by signing a 27-year agreement with Spinneys, a leading premium supermarket chain.

As part of the agreement, Spinneys will establish a 500,000 sq. ft. advanced processing facility within Food Tech Valley, which is expected to be operational soon. This collaboration highlights the UAE's ongoing commitment to enhancing food security and sustainability, aligning with Dubai's goal of becoming a global leader in innovative food technologies.

The agreement was formalized by Rashed Mohammad, Chief Real-Estate Officer of Wasl, and Sunil Kumar, CEO of Spinneys.

Rashed Mohammad expressed enthusiasm, saying, "We are excited to welcome Spinneys to Food Tech Valley and collaborate with them on their ambitious plans to provide high-quality, sustainably grown food to UAE consumers. This new facility reinforces our dedication to transforming the food industry and positioning Dubai as a hub for food innovation, sustainability, and security. Together with partners like Spinneys, we aim to support the UAE's food security goals through sustainable growth."

Sunil Kumar remarked, "As a locally grown brand, Spinneys is committed to the well-being of our customers, communities, and the UAE ecosystem. Our partnership with Food Tech Valley is especially meaningful as it strengthens our support for local farmers and food producers. We are proud to be part of this visionary project, which will drive innovation in Dubai's food sector and advance our growth plans, enhancing our ability to serve customers with state-of-the-art food processing capabilities."

Launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, Food Tech Valley continues to attract industry leaders and innovators for collaborative projects. The partnership with Spinneys further emphasizes the role of Food Tech Valley in facilitating cutting-edge initiatives, providing a platform for companies like Spinneys to innovate and expand their operations.

With the UAE currently importing over 90% of its food and facing a projected 50% rise in food demand by 2030, Food Tech Valley will be crucial in developing a sustainable, self-sufficient food system. This aligns with the UAE government's aim to position the country as a global leader in the Global Food Security Index by 2051.

Food Tech Valley is designed to be a catalyst for transforming the UAE into a global center for technology-driven food and agricultural solutions. In line with the UAE Food Security National Strategy 2051, it is built on principles of connectivity, innovation, and fostering business growth in food technology. The project will feature production zones, warehousing, logistics and cold storage, an innovation and R&D center, an academy, a business park, a marketplace, a visitor center, and residential areas.