Lidl GB has announced the launch of a bottling plant in Derby, which has recently started supplying to Lidl stores across Great Britain. The facility will bottle water and produce a variety of soft drinks, with a production capacity of 380 million bottles per year.
The plant called MEG Derby Ltd is part of Schwarz Produktion, the umbrella brand of the Schwarz Group’s production companies. MEG is one of Germany’s leading mineral water and soft drink manufacturers, and this marks their first venture in Great Britain.
By localising production, the move will simplify transport logistics and significantly reduce the distance the products travel to stores, thereby improving Lidl’s carbon footprint and reducing costs. The plant will also provide a boost to the local economy with the creation of about 90 new jobs.
Richard Bourns, chief commercial officer, Lidl GB, commented: “This new venture with MEG Derby Ltd. marks a significant milestone in our commitment to improving efficiency, reducing our impact on the environment and providing our customers with great quality products at the lowest possible prices. Bringing production of this key product closer to home makes sense and aligns with Lidl GB’s vision of contributing positively to the local community and economy.”
Jörg Aldenkott, CEO at Schwarz Produktion, commented: “The inauguration of MEG Derby Ltd. represents a pivotal moment for Schwarz Produktion. As our first venture in Great Britain, it underscores our commitment to sustainable growth, and will allow us to serve Lidl stores across Great Britain. As one of the leading soft drink and mineral water manufacturers in Germany we know investments like these pay off, and I can’t think of a better place to do it than in Great Britain.”
