Britvic makes a significant investment of £22.5 million to boost production in East London.
- The sixth bottling line will enhance production capacity by nearly 30%.
- New equipment will facilitate faster production of popular brands like Tango and Pepsi Max.
- Eighteen new jobs are created with a focus on technical training for new employees.
- The investment aligns with Britvic’s strategic growth and resilience plans.
Britvic has committed £22.5 million towards establishing a sixth bottling line at its Beckton factory, situated in East London, which is a strategic move to bolster its long-term growth ambitions within the United Kingdom. This substantial investment is poised to increase the production capacity at the site by nearly 30%, reflecting Britvic’s confidence in expanding its market presence and operational efficiency.
The new bottling line is equipped with cutting-edge manufacturing technology aimed at expediting the production processes for renowned soft drink brands, including Tango and Pepsi Max. This leap in technology ensures that the first products from the line are expected to reach retail shelves by early September, significantly enhancing the distribution capabilities of Britvic.
Accompanying this development is the creation of eighteen new engineering and manufacturing roles within the local community, which represents Britvic’s commitment to not only boosting its production capabilities but also supporting job growth. As part of this initiative, new employees will undergo a comprehensive 12-week training programme designed to provide the technical acumen necessary to operate the advanced bottling machinery efficiently.
Nigel Paine, Britvic’s supply chain director, elaborated on the significance of this initiative, highlighting that the opening of the sixth bottling line marks a pivotal milestone in Britvic’s ongoing investments into strengthening their supply chain. Alongside CEO Simon Litherland and Chairman Ian Durant, Paine underscored the importance of expanding capacity at Beckton to meet rising demands, ensuring the company remains on track to achieve its strategic objectives and maintain a robust business model.
Earlier this year, Britvic disclosed a £13 million investment to introduce a fifth canning line at its Rugby facility, focusing on a 14% capacity increase. This included a production capability of 80,000 recyclable 330ml cans per hour, reinforcing Britvic’s commitment to sustainable practices and enhanced productivity across its operational sites.
Britvic’s strategic investment in enhancing production capabilities reaffirms its commitment to growth and operational excellence within the industry.