Walkers Crisps to Receive £58m Investment and Create 100 New Jobs in Leicester

Walkers, the beloved maker of iconic British crisps like Wotsits and Monster Munch, is about to witness a significant boost with a £58 million investment at its Leicester site. The investment, spearheaded by PepsiCo, marks the company’s most substantial commitment to the UK in the past 25 years. This strategic move aims to celebrate the site’s 75th anniversary, reinforce the factory’s position as one of the world’s largest crisp and snack production facilities, and pave the way for long-term growth.

1. Transformation and Expansion Plans:

• The investment will involve the installation of a new manufacturing line and the replacement of existing machinery, enhancing production capabilities.
• Employee facilities will undergo substantial improvements, including the addition of training areas, an on-site restaurant, and meeting rooms, benefiting the site’s 1,120-strong workforce.
• PepsiCo’s investment will secure the future of the Leicester factory while positioning Walkers for further growth in the coming years.

2. Increased Capacity and New Snack Offerings:

• The planned production line will boost the factory’s capacity, allowing for the production of more Walkers snacks, particularly the increasingly popular Wotsits and Monster Munch.
• Walkers Giants range, currently manufactured in Europe, will be transferred to Leicester once construction is completed in 2024.

3. Sustainable Practices and Packaging Innovations:

• The investment will also target environmental initiatives, such as replacing ovens with renewable electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by around 1,000 tonnes annually.
• Compact packaging equipment will be installed to reduce plastic usage in snack multipacks, aligning with the company’s commitment to sustainability.
• Walkers has made progress in improving packaging recyclability, ensuring its products can be recycled at major supermarkets.

4. Focus on Healthier Snacks and Workforce Development:

• PepsiCo plans to invest in the development of healthier snack ranges, reflecting changing consumer preferences and promoting wellbeing.
• The investment will provide new training opportunities for employees, with up to 100 new roles created to manage the expanded workload and advanced technologies.

Conclusion:

The £58 million investment in Walkers Crisps signifies PepsiCo’s dedication to the Leicester factory and the local community, which has played a pivotal role in the company’s success. By modernizing manufacturing operations, enhancing employee facilities, and fostering sustainability initiatives, Walkers aims to secure its future and continue delivering beloved snacks across the UK. The investment also highlights the company’s commitment to innovation, health-conscious offerings, and creating a positive impact on the environment.