PepsiCo Invests 200 Million Euros in Belgian Plant Expansion
PepsiCo is investing 200 million euros to expand its Veurne facility, aiming to boost production by 35%, reduce CO2 emissions by 75%, and create 150 new jobs.
Strategic Expansion and Sustainability Goals
PepsiCo’s decision to expand its Veurne facility is part of a broader strategy to enhance production capabilities while prioritizing sustainability. The investment of 200 million euros is aimed at increasing the annual production of chips from the current 83,000 tons to 115,000 tons by 2026. This represents a significant 35% boost in production capacity[1]. The expansion will not only cater to the growing demand for PepsiCo’s products in Europe but also create 150 new job opportunities in the region[2].
Innovative Sustainability Measures
A key highlight of this investment is PepsiCo’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. The company aims to cut CO2 emissions from its Veurne plant by 75% through the electrification of its production site and phasing out the use of fossil fuels by 2030[3]. Additionally, PepsiCo plans to optimize water consumption by implementing real-time monitoring systems, reusing production water, collecting rainwater, and reusing moisture from potatoes. These measures are expected to reduce water usage from 3.4 liters to 0.4 liters per kilogram of finished product, achieving an eightfold reduction by 2030[4].
Local Impact and Future Prospects
The Veurne facility, strategically located near Bruges and serving 14 European countries, is one of PepsiCo’s largest snack production sites in Europe. The expansion will include the construction of a new warehouse, expected to be completed by 2025, to support the increased production capacity[5]. The site currently employs 650 workers who produce over 2 million bags of chips daily, and this number is set to grow with the new job openings[6].
Leadership and Vision
Miet Delmotte, General Manager of PepsiCo BeLux, emphasized the significance of this investment for the future of the Veurne plant. ‘We are investing significantly in a strong future for our Veurne facility, one of PepsiCo’s largest chip factories in Europe,’ Delmotte stated[7]. The Belgian Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, also highlighted the importance of such investments for the country’s industrial and economic landscape, praising PepsiCo’s commitment to sustainability and job creation[8].
Conclusion
PepsiCo’s 200 million euro investment in its Veurne facility reflects the company’s dedication to sustainable growth and innovation. By enhancing production capacity and significantly reducing its environmental impact, PepsiCo is setting a benchmark in the snack food industry. The strategic expansion not only bolsters the company’s market presence in Europe but also contributes to the local economy through job creation and sustainable practices.
Bronnen
- www.voka.be
- www.gabot.de
- www.retaildetail.eu
- www.foodpro-network.be
- trademagazin.hu
- www.just-food.com