The Ribena and Lucozade maker said the move forms part of its efforts to reinforce UK investment and strengthening food supply chains.
Launched in partnership with Döhler Group’s Herefordshire-based Bevisol Ltd, the site will benefit from advanced technologies designed to improve efficiency, traceability and operational performance across blackcurrant processing.
Innovations at the facility will include advanced evaporators powered by vapour recompression technology to support modern, high-capacity processing, alongside cleanable membrane filtration to replace conventional filtration methods and improve operational efficiency.
The upgraded site will also feature automated weighing, tipping and handling systems to enhance operational consistency, as well as digital smart tag tracking on fruit bins to improve visibility throughout the supply chain.
“Our partnership with Suntory brings together processing expertise, innovation and targeted investment in a future-ready facility for UK fruit preparation,” said Gero Spika, global account director at Döhler.
“This project strengthens our global partnership with Suntory while reflecting our shared commitment to enhancing local production capabilities, supporting jobs in the region and contributing to the long-term future of British blackcurrant farming.”
Suntory said the investment underlines its continued commitment to UK blackcurrant sourcing and to supporting the long-term future of British blackcurrant farming.
The company added that the investment at the Ledbury site builds on relationships with 33 blackcurrant farms across five growing regions in the UK.
The project will support jobs in the region, with 12 new full-time roles and an additional 30 seasonal roles.
This latest investment forms part of a wider programme of investment by Suntory across its UK supply chain (£57.5 million), which includes recent projects at its Coleford factory to strengthen manufacturing capability and reduce emissions.
This includes plans to upgrade the site’s electricity connection and reduce reliance on its gas turbine, alongside a new £25 million manufacturing line due in 2027.
Farming minister Stephen Morgan added: “This investment is a vote of confidence in British farming and the generations of blackcurrant growers whose fruit has helped make Ribena a household name. By investing in greener technology and modern processing, projects such as this strengthen UK supply chains, support rural jobs and help ensure British blackcurrant production continues to thrive for years to come.
“Through the Farming Innovation Programme, we’re investing at least £200 million to 2030 to help farmers and food producers turn innovation into growth, boosting productivity while building a more resilient and sustainable food system.”
