PepsiCo is investing £8m investment in its Pipers Crisps manufacturing site in Brigg, Lincolnshire, to meet the growing demand for the snacks. The announcement coincides with the 20th anniversary of Pipers Crisps and marks five years since PepsiCo’s acquisition of the brand.
The funding will boost production capacity at the site by nearly 80% by replacing existing crisp fryers with new energy-efficient models and installing new packaging machines.
Originally available in small independent pubs, bars, cafes and farm shops, Pipers has expanded its distribution network to include national wholesalers such as Booker, Brakes and Bidfood, alongside hospitality operators Mitchell & Butlers, Stonegate and Youngs.
The brand’s export business is also worth over £2m, shipping to countries including France, Italy and across Scandinavia. The investment is expected to help unlock further export opportunities for the brand in the Middle East, China and Japan.
Mirjam Fogarty, head of operations at Pipers Crisps, said: “Pipers is a much-loved brand with a rich heritage, and we’re delighted to be making this investment at such an exciting stage in our journey.
“From small independent pubs, cafes and farm shops, to working with some of the UK’s biggest wholesalers and hospitality operators, the funding will help us bring our delicious crisps to more people, wherever they are, and expand our brand internationally.
“With Pipers’ 20th birthday fast approaching, I’m looking forward to the next phase of our growth.”
