In a bid to meet the surging demand, PepsiCo is set to invest £8m ($10.1m) in its Pipers Crisps manufacturing site in the UK.
The investment aims to bolster production at the potato snack factory by nearly 80% to cater to the expanding demand within the UK market as well as the brand’s growing export market.
Located in Brigg, Lincolnshire, the facility will witness the installation of new packaging equipment and a replacement of existing fryers to enhance operational efficiency.
PepsiCo’s allocation of funds will also extend to maintaining facilities for the factory’s 100 employees, encompassing improvements to workspaces and changing rooms.
The Cheetos brand owner highlighted Pipers Crisps’ dominance in the UK’s premium crisp market, particularly in hospitality locations, underscoring the brand’s increasing popularity.
According to PepsiCo, Pipers Crisps now commands a third of total sales in the segment, reflecting escalating customer demand. While the specific data source remains undisclosed, the trend is evident.
Mirjam Fogarty, head of operations at Pipers, expressed enthusiasm about the investment’s potential, stating, “The funding will help us bring our delicious crisps to more people, expand our brand internationally, and reach a wider audience across pubs, cafes, and farm shops.”
Since its establishment in 2004, Pipers Crisps has been producing at the Brigg factory. Following PepsiCo’s acquisition in 2019, the brand has witnessed a significant growth trajectory, doubling its sales volume post-acquisition.
Moreover, Pipers products have transcended national boundaries, with exports extending to countries like France, Italy, and Scandinavia.
