In a move to bolster production capabilities, Carlsberg Britvic has announced a £20 million investment in a new soft drinks canning line at its Rugby factory.

This expansion, which includes a building extension, will create 34 new jobs and brings the total investment in the site to over £60 million in the past five years.

The new canning line will enhance the factory's production capacity, increasing output from 560,000 to 610,000 canned soft drinks per hour.

This upgrade will facilitate the production of popular beverages, including Tango and Pepsi MAX, reinforcing Carlsberg Britvic’s position in the competitive soft drinks market.

Located on the Glebe Farm Industrial Estate, the Rugby facility is already a major employer in the region, with the new roles in engineering and manufacturing expected to increase the workforce to over 430 employees. Recruitment for these positions is currently underway.

Nigel Paine, VP of production at Carlsberg Britvic, said: “This investment underscores our commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in our supply chain. By expanding our production capacity, we can meet the growing demand for our popular brands, create more jobs and enhance our operational efficiency.”

This expansion follows a series of investments aimed at strengthening the company's production capabilities, including a £1.15 million investment earlier this year, a £13 million canning line in 2023, and a £27 million canning line in 2021.

These efforts are part of Carlsberg Britvic’s broader strategy to enhance its supply chain and maintain its competitive edge in the beverage industry.

John Slinger, MP for Rugby, added: “They are a significant employer in the Rugby community, and this announcement means more jobs for our area, opportunities for young people and of course more of some of the nation's favourite soft drinks”.

Minister for Investment Jason Stockwood also commented on the announcement, describing it as a strong endorsement of the UK’s F&B sector, which is the largest manufacturing industry in the country. “Not only will their expansion boost production, but it will strengthen the supply chain and help drive economic growth,” he said.

The Rugby factory benefits from its strategic location near packaging supplier Ardagh Group, facilitating efficient logistics through an underground passage for can deliveries.

This setup not only enhances operational efficiency but also aligns with Carlsberg Britvic’s commitment to sustainability, supported by a government grant for green initiatives.

Additionally, the company has invested £4 million in a new logistics hub located at Junction 12 of the M6, further optimising its supply chain.