Everything about the new installation, the Krones technology, as well as the range of new bottles, is of the highest standard, says the company. It is likely to accelerate growth of around 30% annually (since 2002).
“Our plan since my father started the company 12 years ago was always to develop high quality brands,” said Harrogate Spring Water chief executive James Cain. “We know our water source is among the best in the UK and has achieved international recognition. Our packaging for glass and PET bottles has been updated and the new PET diamond design, we believe, is quite stunning. It has been ‘right-weighted’, ensuring the packaging weight is optimised to limit our carbon footprint while maintaining the same characteristics and high performance.
“Our strategy has always been to provide a premium product, while making it accessible and appealing to all. The new designs certainly provide exceptional standout and will hopefully take us to the next level.
“We are fortunate to have many of the best suppliers within our locality. We have remained loyal to the same suppliers over the past 12 years: Ardagh Glass, Esterform for bottles and preforms and Bericap for closures. This close relationship has enabled the design team at Krones in Neutrabling to create a PET bottle that looks stunning, performs well and has achieved tremendous feedback from our customers.”
The 23,000 sq ft extension doubles the existing area and houses the new line, as well as some warehousing. The existing combi glass/PET line will continue to produce glass.
“There are some other good suppliers around,” said Cain. “However, having visited many installations to view their equipment, we felt Krones were a perfect fit and partner for the project. We knew from the outset we would have great support from the Krones UK team and also from their colleagues in Germany.
“Although the extension is significant, space remains at a premium. The design of the production line has been optimised to utilise the available area most effectively. The Krones Ergobloc, the first in the UK, saves on footprint and space; an incredibly efficient layout allows us to run with just three operators.”
While the company produces still and sparkling water for the Harrogate Spring and Thirsty Planet brands, the option for Thirsty Planet to add flavoured waters to its product portfolio in the future is an option as part of the Krones installation, including a Contiflow mixer for still and sparkling products.
The line comprises an Ergobloc L with a 16-cavity Contiform C316 blow-moulder, a Prontomodul 720-18 modular labeller with high-speed wraparound labelling station and a Modulfill VFS 2520-84-94 volumetric filler all running at up to 36,000 bottles per hour. The filled bottles are then packed using a Variopac TFS60 film only, or tray and film shrinkwrapper, with Krones palletising.
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024