NEW TECH FOODS

Britvic is investing £1.15 million in its Rugby, Warwickshire, factory to reduce carbon emissions and save energy.

Supported by a £305,000 grant from the government’s Industrial Energy Transformation Fund, the project will upgrade the factory’s centralised chilling system with more efficient cooling towers.

The new cooling towers will reduce electricity consumption on the chiller units, cutting up to 650 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions annually. The cost savings from the upgrade are expected to cover the investment within four years.

The enhanced chilling system will also improve 'reliability and efficiency', particularly during peak summer months, ensuring uninterrupted production of popular brands like Robinsons, Tango and Pepsi Max. The system removes heat from pasteurised drinks and products like Pepsi Max before carbonisation, preventing foaming and waste.

Paul Graham, managing director for Britvic's Great Britain, said: “Britvic is proud to be at the forefront of our industry when it comes to sustainable manufacturing practices. This project is an important step forward in our carbon reduction efforts as well as improving the efficiency of our operations."

“Supported by the government's Industrial Energy Transformation Fund, this initiative not only signifies our dedication to environmental stewardship but also showcases Britvic’s commitment to our Healthier People, Healthier Planet sustainability goals.”

The project, which began in November 2024, is set to be completed by next month.