£6 Million Electrification Upgrade Proposed for Ribena and Lucozade Factory

A £6 million investment is being considered for the electrification of a factory that produces Ribena and Lucozade. This initiative by Suntory Beverage & Food Great Britain involves the proposed decommissioning of its gas turbine located at the Coleford facility, situated in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire. Should this proposal gain approval, the upgrade is projected to conclude in 2026, leading to an approximate 58% reduction in the factory’s direct greenhouse gas emissions. Karl Ottomar, who serves as the company’s supply chain director, commented: “This investment allows us to make significant upgrades, helping us to reduce our carbon footprint but also demonstrating our long-term commitment to the area.” The company indicated its intention to pursue further environmentally friendly initiatives in the future, specifically mentioning the installation of solar panels and heat pumps. Mr. Ottomar further stated that the company is “proud of the long history its factory has had in the Forest of Dean,” highlighting that the facility was constructed in 1946. He elaborated, “This type of investment that is good for us, our employees and the planet more broadly is what we mean when we say we’re ‘Growing for Good’.” Matt Bishop, the Member of Parliament for Forest of Dean, described the plans as “fantastic news for our local economy and the environment.” According to the company, local authorities are scheduled to perform an environmental impact assessment, which will support efforts “to minimise any impact to the local environment or community.”