A significant development has been announced by the company responsible for popular frozen treats like Magnum, Twister, Solero, and Viennetta. The Magnum Ice Cream Company, known as the largest ice cream manufacturer globally, has unveiled plans for a £50 million upgrade of its ice cream plant in Gloucester, United Kingdom.
This investment is part of a broader initiative by the company, totaling €350-380 million, aimed at transforming its supply chain on a global scale. The enhancements at the Gloucester facility will involve increasing production capacity, modernizing infrastructure, and improving operational efficiency. The site is renowned for producing iconic ice cream products such as Viennetta, Twister, Solero, and Magnum.
Key upgrades include a complete reconstruction of the factory’s mix plant, installation of cutting-edge blending technology, and the introduction of new high-speed manufacturing lines for popular items like Twister and Solero. These enhancements are expected to result in a 50% increase in output by 2027 compared to 2023.
Established in 1959, the Gloucester facility is the second-largest ice cream factory in Europe after Heppenheim, Germany. It currently produces over 600 million ice creams annually, with more than 80% of this output catering to the UK market.
The site employs around 500 individuals directly and supports numerous others through local contractor and supplier programs. Additionally, the company plans to enhance upskilling programs for engineering and operations teams, emphasizing its dedication to local employment and skills development.
Peter ter Kulve, CEO of The Magnum Ice Cream Company, emphasized the significance of the £50 million investment in Gloucester, highlighting its role in the company’s global supply chain transformation program and commitment to long-term growth in the UK. The investment aims to increase productivity, foster growth, and maintain the site’s reputation for innovation, quality, and sustainability.
Jamie Farrell, head of country UK&I at The Magnum Ice Cream Company, stated that the investment reflects the company’s ambition to expand, innovate, and continue delighting consumers with their beloved brands. Gloucester is positioned as a central player in this growth journey, with new state-of-the-art production lines and sustainability upgrades showcasing a renewed focus on innovation and responsible growth.
Jason Stockwood, the UK’s Minister of State for UK Investment, hailed the announcement as a step towards modernizing production and securing the future of the Gloucester facility. The investment not only demonstrates Magnum’s commitment to the UK but also underscores the country’s attractiveness as a top investment destination.
The ice cream company anticipates that the advanced machinery and processes implemented at the factory will revolutionize manufacturing efficiency, leading to increased capacity utilization, improved service delivery, and reduced costs.