“Lola Sweets” Boosts Sesame Halva Output by 40%, Prepares to Launch Ketchup, Sauces, and Jam Lines

“Lola Sweets” has increased its production capacity of Sesame Halva and tahina by roughly 40% this year, as it prepares to introduce new product lines—including ketchup, sauces, and jams—starting next year, backed by EGP 25 million in fresh investments. The expansion is part of the company’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence across local and international markets.
Yasser ElSayed, Commercial Director at Lola Sweets, stated that the company has boosted its production of Sesame Halva, tahina, and molasses this year, reaching a current output of 800 tons per month. This scale-up aims to meet the rising demand in domestic and global markets, particularly after the company’s rapid growth and noticeable presence among consumers despite its short time in the market.
Lola Sweets Exports to Six Countries, Eyes Entry into Qatar and Yemen
ElSayed noted that Lola Sweets succeeded—within just two years—in exporting nearly 40% of its production to around six export markets, led by Palestine, Sudan, and Libya. This performance reflects the company’s competitiveness and commitment to meeting international market standards.
He added that the company is preparing to export its candy, Sesame Halva, tahina, and molasses products to Qatar and Yemen before the end of this year. The move supports the company’s export expansion strategy, aimed at increasing foreign currency revenues and contributing to Egypt’s national plan to boost food industry exports, especially in Arab, European, and African markets where demand for Egyptian products is rising.
Ketchup and Sauce Production Lines Coming Next Year
The Commercial Director revealed that Lola Sweets is currently installing three new production lines that will enable the company to manufacture ketchup, sauces, and jams. This expansion capitalizes on the significant market potential for these products both locally and abroad, given the strong competitiveness of Egyptian-made goods in quality and price.
New Investments to Scale Up Manufacturing Capacity
ElSayed explained that Lola Sweets has allocated approximately EGP 25 million to establish the new production lines, scheduled for installation at the beginning of next year. Full-scale production is expected to begin during the first quarter, raising the company’s total investments to nearly EGP 150 million.
Lola Sweets to Exhibit at Food Africa 2025
He highlighted the company’s dedication to participating in leading international food exhibitions, particularly Food Africa 2025, taking place from December 9 to 12. The exhibition offers a major opportunity to advance the company’s export agenda, reach new clients, and showcase its latest products regionally and internationally.
60% of “Al-Ahfad” Sesame Halva Production Distributed Through Local Retail Chains
Discussing the company’s domestic market presence, ElSayed said that Lola Sweets markets its Sesame Halva, tahina, and molasses products under the brand “Al-Ahfad” across major retail chains. Around 60% of the brand’s output is allocated for export—an indicator of the strong confidence international buyers place in Egyptian-made products.
He emphasized that Egyptian food industries currently enjoy promising opportunities in European, Arab, and African markets, driven by rising demand for high-quality, competitively priced products.
Lola Sweets aims to capitalize on these opportunities by expanding its distribution channels and entering new markets, supported by flexible production plans and increased investments that strengthen its export capabilities.
ElSayed stressed that the company is betting on a strategy that combines high quality with continuous innovation, particularly in upgrading production lines and broadening its global customer base. These steps, he said, will boost export performance and support the national economy through increased foreign currency inflows.
He concluded that opportunities remain abundant for Egyptian food manufacturers, but capturing them requires bold investment, strategic foresight, and professional execution to overcome expansion challenges and maximize export potential.