In this exclusive video, the firm’s md Des Smith told FoodManufacture.co.uk about the investment in new facilities and equipment at its headquarters in the village of Aspall, Suffolk.
“We’ve invested in a new cider filler, also a new kegging line to go in the packaging building – which cost a quarter of a million pounds – and a new labeller,” said Smith.
“This investment has enabled us to basically double our capacity overnight – we’ve already doubled on the packaging side and have further plans in place to double on processing next year.”
Increased capacity
Aspall’s new cider filler has increased its capacity from 50 bottles a minute to 115 bottles a minute.
Its new kegging line, set to be up and running on March 17 2014, has increased capacity from 30 kegs an hour to 120 kegs an hour.
Smith said the investment had allowed Aspall to stop using contract packaging and reduce its use of agency workers.
Watch this video to find out how the investment has improved efficiencies and learn what other investment plans the business has in place as it gears up for its 300th anniversary.
Meanwhile, look out for our feature on Aspall’s anniversary preparations and future investment plans in May’s Food Manufacture magazine.