UK-based snacking major Pladis has opened a new regional headquarters in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

The McVitie’s biscuit brand manufacturer, owned by Turkish conglomerate Yildiz Holding, said the new hub will be the headquarters for its operation covering the Middle East, North Africa and India.

The building is located in the Zahran Business Center in Jeddah’s business district.

Pladis, which also owns the brands Godiva, Jacob’s, Carr’s and Go Ahead, suggested the move marks a “significant milestone” in the company's strategic growth and expansion in the region.

Suryakant Pandey, Middle East, North Africa and India managing director at Pladis, said: “The opening of our new headquarters in Jeddah is a pivotal step in our journey towards strengthening our presence in the region.

“This office embodies our commitment to investing in our people and our business, providing a modern, collaborative space that will drive innovation and growth across our operations. As we continue to expand, this new office will serve as the cornerstone of our regional strategy, enabling us to better serve our customers and communities.”

Jaffaa Cakes owner Pladis has products across the sweet and savoury biscuits, wafer, cake and chocolate categories.

The company has a 16,000-strong global workforce spanning 27 bakeries across 11 countries.

The integration of Belgian chocolatier Godiva into Pladis started in 2023 and this process will complete in 2024.

Prior to its integration, Godiva Company was acquired in 2008 by parent Yıldız Holding.

Saudi Arabia has been successful in attracting foreign investment in recent years.

Figures released late last year by the Saudi Central Bank showed the Kingdom’s foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows surged by 29.1% in Q3 2023 compared to the previous three months.

FDI inflows reached SAR7.99bn ($2.13bn at the time), rising from SAR6.2bn recorded in the previous quarter.