The newly-designed factory forms a key part of Vimto Out Of Home, manufacturing frozen and post-mix solutions for their own customers and external partners.
Having acquired the site from Dayla in 2011, Vimto Ross specialises in packing juices and syrups in bag in box formats (BiB) from 2L to 1000L.
Nichols plc says the Out Of Home channel contributes to 28% of its total revenue.
Andy Johnson, supply chain director, says: “We have increased capacity for new business and growth as a result of the recent investment in our technology and people.
“Vimto Ross currently employs 42 people and wants to remain the employer of choice in the area, by providing a local feel with PLC benefits. Additionally, the business maintains its pledge to employees that for every £1 raised for local charities it will match, encouraging our employees to give something back locally.”
Vimto Out Of Home supplies retailers and leisure accounts within the UK.
The £4.5millon investment primarily focuses on improved technology and innovation, ensuring the Ross site is fit for the future.
New technology includes EOL automation, a labelling solution, and sugar pump automation.
The latest development, Line 5, is in the planning stages, with the aim to bring production all under one roof.
Vimto Ross has a new management programme to upskill its managers, and a new skills matrix to develop the team and provide further health and safety training. The automisation of many parts of the factory as a result of the investment has also led to a different training platform being implemented.
Vimto Out Of Home also supplies free on loan equipment to top venues across the UK and Europe, including leading attractions and pub groups.