PepsiCo Unveils £8 Million Investment in Pipers Crisps
Global food and beverage giant PepsiCo has announced a significant £8 million investment into its Pipers Crisps manufacturing site located in Brigg, Lincolnshire. This strategic funding comes as Pipers celebrates its 20th anniversary and aims to boost production capacity at the site by nearly 80%.
The substantial increase in production is made possible by the replacement of existing crisp fryers with state-of-the-art, energy-efficient models, and the installation of advanced packaging machines.
This upgrade is not only a capacity enhancer but also an environmental boon, as the new fryers are expected to reduce the site’s greenhouse gas emissions by over 200 tonnes per year.
What’s more, this initiative aligns with PepsiCo’s pep+ commitment, which targets an absolute reduction in emissions across its value chain by more than 40% by 2030, with an ultimate goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2040.
The investment also extends to the factory’s 100 employees, promising significant improvements to their workspaces and staff changing rooms, fostering a better working environment.
Furthermore, this enhancement in employee facilities is anticipated to improve morale and productivity, contributing to the overall efficiency of the manufacturing process.
Since PepsiCo’s acquisition of Pipers in 2019, the brand has surged to become the leading premium crisp brand in the ‘away from home’ category. During this period, sales have doubled, reflecting the brand’s growing popularity and the effectiveness of its distribution strategy.
Initially available in small independent pubs, bars, cafes, and farm shops, Pipers has expanded its reach to national wholesalers, like Booker, Brakes, and Bidfood, as well as hospitality operators, such as Mitchell & Butlers, Stonegate, and Youngs.
This broad network ensures that Pipers’ quality crisps are available across various locations in the United Kingdom, meeting the diverse tastes and preferences of consumers.
Pipers’ export business has also flourished, now worth more than £2 million, with products being shipped to countries including France, Italy, and across Scandinavia.
What’s more, the brand is eyeing further export opportunities in regions like the Middle East, China, and Japan. This international expansion is a testament to the global appeal of Pipers’ premium crisps and the brand’s ability to cater to different markets.
Commenting on the announcement, Pipers’ head of operations expressed enthusiasm, noting that Pipers is a much-loved brand with a rich heritage, also highlighting the overall importance of this investment at such a pivotal moment in their journey.
They went on to add that from their humble beginnings in independent pubs, cafes, and farm shops, to their current partnerships with major UK wholesalers and hospitality operators, the funding will enable Pipers to bring their delicious crisps to more people and expand their international presence.
As Pipers approaches its 20th birthday, this investment marks a significant milestone, propelling the brand into the next phase of its growth. The enhancements in production capacity and employee facilities are expected to drive further success, helping Pipers meet increasing consumer demand and solidify its market position.
Alongside Pipers, PepsiCo’s portfolio includes well-known UK food brands, such as Walkers, Doritos, Quavers, Wotsits, Monster Munch, and Quaker Oats.
To conclude, PepsiCo’s £8 million investment in Pipers Crisps signifies a pivotal step in enhancing production capacity, reducing environmental impact, and supporting employee welfare.
As Pipers celebrates its 20th anniversary, the brand stands poised for continued growth both domestically and internationally, reinforcing its position as a beloved premium crisp brand. This strategic move not only highlights PepsiCo’s commitment to sustainability and innovation but also sets the stage for Pipers’ exciting future in the global market.
The comprehensive upgrades to the manufacturing site and improved working conditions for employees underscore the holistic approach PepsiCo is taking to ensure Pipers’ enduring success and relevance in the competitive snack industry.
News Credits: PepsiCo investing £8m into UK crisps manufacturing facility
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