Gloucestershire’s iconic Ribena and Lucozade factory is set for a major transformation with a £25 million investment aimed at securing its future for years to come. Suntory, the Japanese owner of the brands, is expanding its 80-year-old Coleford plant by introducing a state-of-the-art manufacturing line named “Apollo 5,” scheduled for completion next year—just in time to celebrate Lucozade’s 100th anniversary.
This investment is part of a larger £57 million commitment by Suntory to enhance its manufacturing and supply chain operations in the UK. The Coleford upgrade will replace two aging Ribena production lines with advanced technology designed to boost efficiency while reducing environmental impact. The new line will use innovative bottle-cleaning methods that consume less energy and water, reflecting Suntory’s commitment to sustainability.
“Apollo 5” will produce both Ribena and Lucozade, with the flexibility to switch seamlessly between the two, boasting a capacity of 55,000 bottles per hour. This flexibility not only promises to meet growing demand but also strengthens the factory’s responsiveness to market needs.
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Suntory has been actively investing in the Coleford site, including a sustainability initiative launched last year that focuses on electrifying the factory and cutting reliance on gas power.
Elise Seibold, COO of Suntory Beverage & Food Great Britain & Ireland, expressed enthusiasm about the project: “This next chapter represents a significant investment in our factory, ensuring the longevity of two beloved British brands, Ribena and Lucozade. Thanks to strong support from our parent company in Japan, we are positioned for long-term success.”
Highlighting Suntory’s commitment to the region, Elise added, “As we mark 80 years of our factory in the Forest of Dean, we remain dedicated to supporting the local economy and community.”
The project will also benefit local businesses, with £2.1 million earmarked for Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, and South Wales companies during the construction phase.
Matt Bishop, MP for the Forest of Dean, welcomed the announcement, stating, “This investment highlights Suntory’s dedication to the Forest of Dean and its skilled workforce. It emphasizes our region’s vital role in the UK’s growth strategy, fostering innovation and manufacturing excellence in the heart of the Forest of Dean.”