CCEP's $39.7m can line upgrade in Perth increases capacity 40%

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (CCEP) has unveiled a $39.7 million upgrade to its Kewdale manufacturing facility, reinforcing its long‍-‍term commitment to Western Australia and the future of Australian manufacturing.

The investment centres on a new can production line, increasing manufacturing capacity by more than 40% and ensuring the Kewdale site remains a critical part of CCEP’s national manufacturing network for decades to come.

The new can line will operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week during peak season, with a capacity to produce 16 million cases, equivalent to approximately 384 million cans per year. The new technology increases production speeds from approximately 1060 cans per minute to 1500 cans per minute, while delivering enhanced automation and increased flexibility to respond to changing consumer demand and improved water and energy efficiency.

“This upgrade is one of the largest investments in Kewdale’s recent history and reflects our long-term belief in manufacturing in Western Australia. As we head into summer, this line will operate around the clock to help ensure Western Australians can continue enjoying the beverages they know and love. Beyond increasing production capacity, this investment strengthens local manufacturing, supports skilled jobs and positions Kewdale as a world-class facility for the future,” said Tom Schiebling, Director of Manufacturing, Coca‍-‍Cola Europacific Partners.

Operating for more than 50 years, the Kewdale site employs 300 Western Australians, including 125 manufacturing team members, making it CCEP’s fourth largest manufacturing facility nationally.

The investment comes as demand for locally manufactured beverages continues to grow and strengthens CCEP’s ability to produce products where they are consumed, supporting local jobs, supply chains and communities.

Workforce of the future

Alongside the can line upgrade, CCEP is also showcasing an innovative workforce pilot designed to attract more people into manufacturing careers.

The Kewdale site recently introduced a flexible part‍-‍time frontline manufacturing model aimed at making manufacturing careers more accessible for people balancing family, caring or other commitments. The pilot generated over 900 applications for its first intake and has already welcomed new team members into manufacturing roles through part‍-‍time opportunities, helping broaden participation in the manufacturing workforce.

“The future of manufacturing depends on both world-class equipment and a skilled, diverse workforce to operate it. By rethinking traditional workforce models, we’re creating new pathways into manufacturing and opening opportunities for Western Australians that may have not previously considered a career in the industry,” Schiebling said.

Images: Supplied

Originally published here.