Europe’s largest soft drinks plant by volume, the investment will showcase a cutting-edge canning line, slated to become operational in 2024. This state-of-the-art line will be able to produce an impressive 2,000 cans per minute.
This new addition will enhance CCEP’s production capabilities for their popular light-weight 330ml cans. In accordance with their commitment to sustainability, the canning line will incorporate advanced technologies to minimize energy, water, and CO2 consumption.
To achieve these savings, revolutionary innovations such as air rinsing capabilities, dry lubrication on conveyors, and an auto-sleep function on motors will be integrated into the process. These advancements will not only increase efficiency but also reduce the environmental impact of the production line.
Additionally, the introduction of the new canning line will result in the creation of 28 new roles, requiring additional training to upskill the existing 500-strong workforce at the site. Vanessa Smith, director of supply chain operations at CCEP, emphasized the company’s dedication to keeping their sites at the forefront of innovation. She highlighted how this investment underscores their commitment to the Wakefield site and its employees, from apprentices to long-serving staff.
Furthermore, CCEP is dedicated to fostering a more diverse workforce that reflects the communities they operate in. The company aims to recruit more women and individuals from different backgrounds into manufacturing, logistics, and distribution roles. They are shifting their hiring processes to focus on an individual’s skills and aptitude rather than solely considering historical qualifications. To accommodate a variety of lifestyles, more flexible working options will also be offered.
Stephen Moorhouse, vice-president and general manager of CCEP, emphasized that this pioneering development at the Wakefield site marks a significant investment to advance their sustainability journey and make positive contributions to the local community. As the largest manufacturing site within the company, Wakefield offers a range of modern manufacturing jobs, incorporating the latest technologies. Over the past five years alone, CCEP has invested over £100million in the Wakefield factory, accelerating their path to net zero and supporting the local economy.
Andrea Jenkyns MP expressed delight in Coca-Cola’s substantial investment of £31 million in the Wakefield plant. This investment showcases their unwavering confidence in the local economy, reaffirming their commitment to growth and job creation. Not only does this bolster the plant’s position as the largest in Europe, but it also strengthens the region’s economic vitality. Coca-Cola has been applauded for their vision and dedication to the prosperity of the community.
