The development enables the two factories to provide new polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottling facilities.
Lorien said the upgrades would optimise operational efficiencies for Britvic and help the company to minimise the impact of its operations on the environment – in line with its sustainable business programme.
Optimising operations
Adam Hartley, engineering and plant development manager leading the installation group for Britvic, said: “The project demonstrates Britvic’s commitment to providing the latest technology to optimise operations and reduce the impact on the planet.
“Working collaboratively with our suppliers and the supporting project team has been crucial to maximising the potential of the sites and setting them up for success in the long term.”
Business consultancy and facilities designer Lorien supported Britvic with project management, compliance, and design resources at all stages of the development. The organisation, a division of GP Strategies Corporation, specialises in capital projects for food, brewing, drinks, logistics and safety compliance.
Future proofing
Lorien engineering manager Chris Bullock added: “The cooperation of factory staff at all levels has been appreciated as we assist in future-proofing their site operations over the course of these projects. We are delighted to support Britvic as it continues to grow.”
This week also saw Britvic announce it was investing £850,000 a year in UK recycling infrastructure through its commitment to only purchase domestic Packaging Recovery Notes (PRNs) from UK recyclers.
Alison Rothnie, senior sustainability manager at Britvic explains: “We understand the environmental impact packaging can have at the end of its life, and we are committed to playing our part to reduce this.
By committing to only buy PRNs from UK recyclers, we are investing in better recycling infrastructure in the UK, helping to ensure more waste is recycled here where we can track its progress and creating a stronger supply of recycled PET, which is a crucial part of developing a truly sustainable circular economy.”
In January, Britvic announced it had ploughed £100m into the Rugby site as part of its three-year £240m investment plan, installing three new canning lines and creating 80 new jobs.
However, the GMB trade union criticised the drinks manufacturer for creating new roles at the Rugby plant, while planning to close its Norwich site.
Meanwhile, last month, poultry processor Moy Park has invested over £18m across a number of its sites in Lincolnshire as part of its strategy to improve production.