Bolstered by a £28.5m investment, Alpro, a European pioneer of soya-based drinks and food products, launched the first phase of its Burton Latimer production facility’s new extension, creating 35 new jobs while doubling production capacity.
Located near Kettering, the company's enhanced production capacity for its hazelnut, almond, coconut, oat and soya drinks will cater to the growing demand.
Minister of State for Trade and Investment Lord Livingston stated: "This major commitment to the Burton Latimer site sends a very clear and positive message about innovation and excellence in the UK food and drink industry and the benefits of using the support available from UKTI."
Sue Garfitt, commercial director, commented: "Alpro sales are currently rising at over 25% a year in the UK, as more and more people buy into plant-based foods. Sales of our almond and coconut drinks have doubled in the last year and along with our soya-based drinks and alternatives to yogurt."
The latest investment in Burton Latimer has given rise to a new structure comprising two complete new filling lines among various other production equipment.
With 35 employees already joining Alpro UK's 180-strong workforce, 15 more recruitments are scheduled to happen in the latter half of 2015.
Garfitt elucidated: "In recent years, we've witnessed strong growth, developing from a company only marketing soya-based products, into one focussing on more ingredients such as almond, hazelnut, oat, and coconut and on several categories such as drinks, plant-based alternatives to yoghurt and cream, and desserts. To be able to maintain this growth, we will have to continue to invest strongly and the commitment we have made to this site demonstrates the huge potential we see in the UK."
