Molson Coors Beverage Company has unveiled plans to invest over GBP100 million (USD 126 million) in its U.K. business infrastructure over the next five years, the company announced this week.
Fraser Thomson, Molson Coors’ chief supply chain officer for Western Europe, emphasized that this investment is crucial for expanding brewing and packaging capacity, aligning with the company's growth trajectory and the continued success of its brands.
“This strategic plan represents a significant investment in our future, empowering our workforce and equipping our brands to thrive in the U.K. market, while also advancing our sustainability objectives,” Thomson stated.
Key highlights include the notable growth of Molson Coors’ premium and world lager brands, particularly Madrí Excepcional, which has experienced robust performance. Carling, the U.K.’s largest beer brand, remains central to the brewery’s portfolio.
Madrí Excepcional emerged as the fastest-growing major beer brand in both volume and value sales in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to 2022, positioning itself as the second-largest above-premium lager in on-premise venues. Moreover, its successful launch in Canada and Bulgaria underscores its global appeal.
The comprehensive GBP100 million investment plan encompasses enhancements to brewing capacity and packaging capabilities at Molson Coors’ primary U.K. facilities in Burton-on-Trent and Tadcaster (inside.beer, 10.10.2023). Notably, a new 24-tonne high-speed can filler will be installed at the Burton brewery, boasting a capacity of 120,000 cans per hour. Upgrades to the packaging keg line will be implemented at both Tadcaster and Aspall Cyder House.
Furthermore, investments in Sharps’ Brewery in Rock, Cornwall, will bolster support for new and existing ale brands such as Doom Bar, Solar Wave Hazy, and Twin Coast.
These investments represent the latest in a series of multi-million-pound commitments to Molson Coors’ U.K. operations. Recent years have witnessed GBP 44 million in investments, including capacity expansions, new equipment installations, and ongoing improvements.
Beyond enhancing capabilities and operational efficiency, these investments align with Molson Coors’ environmental commitments. The company aims to achieve net-zero direct carbon emissions in the U.K. by 2035, building on its transition to renewable electricity in 2021.
Thomson expressed confidence in this milestone, affirming Molson Coors’ commitment to innovation, portfolio growth, and environmental stewardship.
