Ardagh Metal Packaging (AMP) recently announced plans to build a new $200 million beverage can plant in Northern Ireland.
AMP said that the new plant, which will cost of $200 million, will be based at Global Point near Belfast, close to key local customers,
This initiative is part of a multi-billion dollar investment programme by AMP involving the construction of new, infinitely recyclable, metal packaging capacity in Europe, North America and Brazil.
The company said that metal cans are the most recycled drinks package in the world, contributing to a circular economy and the sustainability requirements of AMP customers and consumers.
Commenting, Oliver Graham, CEO of AMP, said, “This exciting project is an important part of AMP’s global investment programme.
"We are delighted to be investing in Northern Ireland, supporting our clients’ sustainability needs, and further reducing our carbon footprint by locating capacity closer to our end customers."
Supporting Local Jobs
Though details on precise jobs numbers are still being finalised, the company said that the investment by AMP will lead to the creation of a large number of full-time jobs for engineers, technicians and other roles.
AMP is currently at the pre-planning application stage and is actively engaged with local stakeholders on the project.
Further details of the plant will be announced over the coming months.
Marcel Martin, chief supply chain officer, Coca-Cola HBC, commented, “It is great to see this investment in the new can making facility and in Northern Ireland, especially as it will supply high-quality beverage cans to our plants.
"With our own state-of-the-art production facility in Knockmore Hill, Lisburn, Ardagh’s investment showcases the importance of partnership to bringing shared value to suppliers and customers and aligns with our desire to shorten our supply chain to reduce emissions and buy local where possible and support local jobs and communities."
Looking Ahead
David Spratt, CEO of AMP Europe, said, “We plan to have the new state of the art plant operational during 2023 and we expect to commence recruitment in 2022.”
He also added that, “This investment is supported by key AMP customers and will have capacity for further expansion to service additional growth in customer demand.”
AMP, which is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, is 75% owned by Ardagh Group, the international packaging group which traces its origins back to glass manufacturing in Dublin in the 1930s.
2021 Checkout – your source for the latest Irish retail news. Article by Donna Ahern. For more packaging news click here. Click sign up to subscribe to Checkout.
