Brewing & Beverage Industries Business - Autumn 2024

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Brewing & Beverage Industries Business is a quarterly ‘Supply Chain’ magazine targeting the UK drinks production industry. If your company supplies products and services to brewers, distillers, cider makers, etc, then this is the platform for you

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IN PRINT & ONLINE - Now

WHO WE ARE

Magazine Editor

Chris Freer

Digital Editor

Simon Butler

For editorial or advertising enquiries, call the Editor on 0115 8 549 349 or e-mail: chris@brewingbusiness.co.uk

WHO WRITES FOR U S

RUTH EVANS MBE

Ruth is CEO of BFBi, whose membership represents the supply chain for the brewing and beverage industries

JULIAN GROCOCK

Julian Grocock is a former chief executive of SIBA with extensive experience in beer, brewery and pub politics

ALAN POWELL

Published by freerbutler limited PO Box 9666 • Nottingham • NG10 9BY United Kingdom

Tel: 0115 8 549 349 brewingbusiness co uk

Our print circulation is audited and certified

Brewing & Beverage Industries Business magazine is an independent publication delighted to be a MEDIA PARTNER to

Representing the entire value chain supplying the Brewing, Food & Beverage Industry

Alan Powell is a specialist excise duties consultant, who heads up the British Distillers Alliance Members of

We are delighted to be the home of

News from the Brewing, Food & Beverage Industr y Suppliers Association

Cover illustrationPaul Keeney of Rankin Brothers & Sons at the company’s production site

freerbutler limited is a Supplier Associate member of

All rights reserved No part of this publication may be stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any other means, electronic or mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of freerbutler limited

Whilst every effort is made to ensure that the information in this publication is accurate and up-to-date, freerbutler limited does not take any responsibility for errors or omissions Opinions expressed in editorial contributions to this publication are those of their respective authors and not necessarily shared by freerbutler limited © freerbutler limited 2024

Word from the BFBi

Ruth Evans MBE

Photo by Gerardo Jaconelli

You ask the questions, we have the answers!

Another three months have gone and we are already looking at September in the not too dim and distant future. I am often asked “what do you know?” Not sure what I know is any more than anybody else but, with an overview of all sectors it is clear that there is a wish to grow, invest, innovate, comply with Government’s directive to reduce carbon footprint

There is a wish but, with the economic challenges facing industry, Government needs to understand that innovation needs investment, investment equals money and where is the money to come from? With the consumer purse not as open as it was, industry needs to be “clever” in how it addresses challenges and this is where our industry comes to the fore – sharing knowledge, collaborating within the supply chain and between supplier and customer – this is how we have progressed in the past and remain a strong and vibrant industry today

With sharing knowledge in mind, we have a number of events coming up where we invite you to attend to learn, network and strengthen your businesses:

Are you a new to keg brand owner and want to understand your responsibilities when placing your beers on the primary gas system or want to know how to access the system?

Come to Cellar 2 Seller –10th September, Loughborough Conference Centre

Want to know about reducing CO2 and recovering renewable biogas/energy from your effluent?

Join us on our Breakfast Briefing webinar – 15th October, 8 15am

Want to know more about water –saving it, reusing it, recycling it?

Come to our Western SeminarOctober 25th, Queens Hotel, Cheltenham

Want to know about Heat Pumps: Balancing Benefits and Integration or more about Compliance (PUWER, CE, ATEX)?

Come to our Breakfast Learning –14th November, Niras Lorien Engineering Solutions, Burton upon Trent – also available via webinar

All of these events are geared to helping you maximise your resources/access to market whilst minimising economic impact

as been recently updated and the Members’ area has been totally hanged, with a lot more features for members to be able to use free-of-charge.

Further information on these and other events can be found within this newsletter or, contact us on info@bfbi org uk or ruth evans@bfbi org uk

Ruth Evans MBE, BFBi

C.E.O.

Established in 1907, BFBi’s membership represents the entire value chain supplying the brewing and beverage industry – from seed geneticists through raw materials, brewhouse and process equipment to dispense, point-of-sale and brewers/distillers. The Association’s objective is to be the foremost trade association providing opportunities for its Members to develop within the brewing, food & beverage industry.

As well as offering many benefits and services to suppliers of raw materials, process and packaging machinery, dispense and point of sale products, BFBi is a Trade Challenge Partner for various overseas exhibitions and owner and organiser of the oldest international brewing and cider Awards in the world

The View Through My Glass Bottom

Julian Grocock

A pint of ‘Mongrel’? No thanks...

I guess you're detecting an allusion to the world of dogs, in which Crufts annual show celebrates the finest in each breed, all winners qualifying essentially through the uncompromised purity of their pedigree. Not too challenging a connection to make, is it?

And it leads us, of course, from Crufts and its pooches, and the conscientious protection of pedigree breeds, to the craft – and craftiness – of today's world of beer, and the all-too-casual destruction of Pedigree brewed

I left teaching forty years ago to pursue a beer-obsessed career, starting out in January 1984 as bar and cellar manager of Tynemill's very first pub (That's the company now known as Castle Rock Brewery, and I will digress briefly to pass on my heartiest and heartfelt congratulations for its latest superb achievement as National Pub & Bar Awards 2024 Pub Group of the Year }

The Old Kings Arms in Newark had actually just become a Tynemill-run Marston's tenancy, because as a free house its Pedigree was outselling all the other cask ales added together While I was there, 'Pedi' turnover was around seven barrels a week – that’s 7 x 36 gallons. And when I moved on in 1986, to launch Loughborough's Swan in the Rushes, my successor – the late great Neil Kelso – added a further two barrels to the OKA average Pedigree was also a mustsell at the Swan, where weekly sales reached three barrels (alongside four of Tetley’s)

It was a truly brilliant pint – loved by its regular drinkers, and understandably equally cherished at its Burton brewery A guided tour there in the mid-Eighties proved to me the level of passion behind its classic status, and of pride in its production in the unique last surviving Burton Union brewing sets. How times have changed

Pedigree's decline has been a gradual process Unlike many other victims of industry rationalisation, it hasn't been forced to move and suffer the consequences of unsuccessful flavour-matching (and I won't mention Tetley's again) But over time it has lost its distinctive 'Burton' character, and I do wonder if that's due to a steadily decreasing volume of each brew going through the Union fermenters, in order to facilitate the recent final decision by Carlsberg to discontinue their use for good

When I sold it as a guest ale in my last pub over ten years ago, I really didn't think it lived up to its historic reputation And now, when it appears from time to time on the bar in the Marston's pub that's my village local, I find it drinkable but without any of its former stand-out qualities Weirdly, the last time I drank a Pedigree that more closely echoed the beer I remembered, it was the bottle-conditioned version – so perhaps a little more mature than what's on draught

~

The modern industry attitude towards Pedigree, and towards so many other renowned brands possessing what might be perceived as a traditional heritage, seems to be that all that matters is the name This implies that the actual taste has never had anything particularly distinctive about it – especially now we're in a far more experimental 'craft' age pushing flavour boundaries. So it's not really important, and I'm sure many of us who share that traditional heritage (i e we're old too) can list countless famous beers that live on in name

only, with little or no attempt made for accurate replication of their palate and character

There's quite an ironic contrast there with the market-leading big brands in other food fields – e g baked beans – where the guaranteed longestablished flavour is used to justify premium pricing over the cheap superstore competition

I could just condemn Carlsberg and all other global brewing empires for their uninspired approach to what they undoubtedly see as commodity, rather than craft, beers – and their consequent disrespect for the everyday suppers of such products. But that is an attitude encouraged and endorsed to some extent by the elitism of the new generation of 'craft sommeliers', so they too should be taken to task

However, it has been heartening to read recent articles, by established writers Pete Brown and the legendary Roger Protz, challenging the authenticity of many Britishbrewed beers

And on another closing positive note, I will praise and thank Jim Harrison and Simon Webster of Thornbridge Brewery for saving one of the Burton Union sets, and committing themselves to its continued use in the crafting of their own and collaboration brews

Julian Grocock

Julian Grocock is a former pub landlord, managing director of Tynemill/Castle Rock, and chief executive of SIBA.

Extensive experience in beer and pub politics, brewery and pubco operations, and on the front line in the pub trade...‘from cellar to ceiling’.

Showcasing the British spirit

Alan Powell

Dear Mr Murray

There’s a new Government in Westminster (you may have heard!) and thus a new man at the head of the Treasury. I thought it would be a good idea for me to get in touch and introduce the British Distillers Alliance and look to get things off on the right track. So I wrote him a letter (which has been ‘gratefully received’) which I thought I would share with readers of my column in ‘Brewing & Beverage Industries Business’ magazine. So here it is...

British Distillers Alliance: request for meeting in respect of business needs of smaller producers and excise duty matters

May I first of all congratulate you on your appointment as Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury within the new government administration I am sure there is a great deal that will occupy you immediately and wish you well in your endeavours

The British Distillers Alliance (BDA) represents the interests of new and smaller businesses involved with the production of spirits in the UK This BDA was founded in 2016 as a conduit for a rapidly growing new alcohol industry sector and is the only trade organisation that represents all spirits SMEs within the UK, having over two hundred members active in spirits production, as well as others in the independent excise warehousing and associated ancillary industries

I would very much like to meet with you with a small delegation of members to provide both an overview of the sector and more specific concerns of the membership I do not wish to burden you with too much detail but would like to make a few key points.

New alcohol duty rates and production regime

The previous administration enacted law that, to be fair, has several good points, particularly the simplification and benefits that will be available to SMEs in the spirits regime that have always been available to brewers (increasing cash flow and much reduced administrative burdens) The BDA has been very actively involved with HMRC and HMT in industry working groups to work collaboratively on this exercise

It is, however, perverse that small brewers benefit from reduced rates of duty on their main products and have done so since Chancellor Gordon Brown announced such a scheme in the 2002

Budget, yet spirits SMEs must bear the burden of the full and highest alcohol duty rate on their main products We acknowledge that at that time there was provision in EU law for Member States benefit to small brewers, but which was not available to spirits producers to anything like the same extent.

The UK may now make the same provision for reduced duty rates for all small alcohol producers, but the previous administration chose not to do so This is especially galling when, as is commonly reported, BDA members often sell their main products at farmers’ markets alongside small cider makers who pay no duty and brewers who pay half the standard beer duty rate, but the small spirits producer pays the full rate, always This is unfair in the extreme To be fair again, this problem is the same for UK (mainly English and Welsh) small wine producers since their main products will never qualify for the SPR limited to less than 8 5% abv We just seek fairness across the board

When our members wrote to their MPs about this inequality of treatment over the last year, the previous minister did not engage to any meaningful degree on this point other than to deflect it to say that the small producer rates can be claimed for weaker products (below 8 5% abv, which seems to be the EU excise duty maximum that may be applied for reduced rates to products other than beer) Again, we acknowledge that in the “curate’s egg” of the new alcohol structure parts of it are “good”, but a very large part is bad for our members

We put this into the context of extremely difficult manufacturing and trading conditions in which duty is a negative factor, and, again, the lack of fair treatment in comparison with other alcohol producers This includes, as will have been pointed out by other trade bodies and large interests, the fact that while there is a degree of duty relief for “draught” products, there is no such

The British Distillers Alliance (BDA) is a non-profit making body which provides a professional service for independent and craft businesses in the spirits production industry and supply chain The BDA represents distillers, rectifiers and compounders and those in related sectors. New members always welcome.

relief for bottled and other “small pack” beverages retailed in pubs

Other BDA activity – emergency production of hand sanitiser

On a related matter, the BDA and its members were among the “heroes” during the Covid crisis of 2020, working with HMRC to agree to legislative easements to spirits duty so that distillers could “pivot” from making gin and other products from their stocks of ethyl alcohol to production of the hand sanitiser urgently needed by health and emergency services Because BDA members are located in almost every location in the UK, this supply chain was thorough and effective There are some very interesting and moving stories that occurred in this period and I am proud of the work we all did Some members have received honours in recognition of their work, but all deserve such recognition

Our request

We would like to meet you and your advisors in person to make a formal introduction and to set out our concerns and possible solutions in more detail I attach some of these details as an annex to this letter for the attention of HMT and HMRC administrators (and copy of this letter to HMT for courtesy and convenience)

With kind regards, Yours sincerely

Alan Powell BA CTA FIIT BDA founder

and co-ordinator

Alan Powell is a specialist excise duties consultant, formerly a Policy official within HMCE’s HQ teams He is excise duties advisor to the Chartered Institute of Taxation, honorary advisor to the UK Warehousing Association and founded the British Distillers Alliance as a conduit for consultation with, and representation to, Government bodies and to assist and advise on technical matters The BDA represents distillers, rectifiers and compounders and those in related sectors. New members welcome!

www.britishdistillersalliance.com For further information:

SHOWC ASE Bottling & Canning Equipment

We asked companies supplying the following products and services to let us know something about themselves....

l New and pre-owned bottling & canning equipment available in the UK l Bottling & canning services

l Companies that will install your equipment and work with you in commissioning and initial production, in addition to providing tuition

From purchase to production: How Collective Motion Brewing supports breweries with automation excellence

In the competitive market of the brewing industry, the right equipment and support can significantly impact a brewery's success Collective Motion Brewing (CMB) is supporting the industry with a focus on automation and a blend of new and pre-owned equipment, coupled with comprehensive service support.

CMB offers a diverse selection of equipment designed to meet the varying needs of breweries Their inventory includes new machines manufactured at their facility and meticulously refurbished pre-owned equipment, ensuring quality and reliability

● New Equipment: Incorporates the latest in brewing technology, providing high efficiency and customisable solutions

● Pre-Owned Equipment: Offers a costeffective alternative, thoroughly inspected to ensure top-notch performance.

● Access to both new and pre-owned options allows breweries to find equipment that fits their budget without compromising on quality

● The rigorous quality checks on pre-owned equipment guarantee performance comparable to new

Core

machines

● Cost Savings: Breweries can acquire high-quality machinery without the premium price

● Flexibility: A wide range of options ensures every brewery finds the perfect fit, enhancing operational efficiency

CMB’s dedication to service support and automation distinguishes them at the forefront for customer success They provide a full suite of support services, including installation, commissioning, and hands-on training, ensuring that their customers can maximise the potential of their equipment

● Automation Expertise: Advanced automation solutions help breweries streamline operations, reduce manual labour, and enhance consistency

● Installation and Commissioning: Professional setup and testing to ensure optimal operation from the outset.

● Seamless integration of automated machinery into existing operations minimises downtime and operational disruptions

● Expert training prepares brewery staff, enhancing their capability to use the equipment to its fullest potential, improving productivity and product quality

● Seamless Start: Breweries can swiftly commence production with their new equipment, reducing time to market

● Enhanced Efficiency: Proper training

and advanced automation result in smoother operations, higher product consistency, and increased overall productivity

CMB is a dedicated partner committed to transforming your brewing operations with cutting-edge automation and comprehensive support By offering a combination of new and pre-owned equipment coupled with providing unparalleled support services, CMB ensures that breweries of all sizes can achieve their operational goals with confidence and efficiency For brewers looking to elevate their production capabilities and streamline their processes, CMB provides the perfect blend of quality machinery, automation, and expert support Explore their offerings today and take the right step towards automating your brewery’s future

Equipment announces Leibinger partnership

Core Equipment, a leading provider of innovative equipment solutions for the beverage industry, has announced a new partnership with Leibinger, a renowned German manufacturer of high-quality canning machines

This strategic alliance aims to bring state-of-the-art canning technology allowing speeds of between 5 and 13,000 cans per hour to the UK market, offering unparalleled efficiency,

precision, and reliability for beverage producers who want to take the next step up

Under this partnership, Core Equipment will become the exclusive distributor of Leibinger canning machines across the United Kingdom

This collaboration will enable larger craft and mid-volume UK beverage producers to access affordable, faster canning solutions With the Multima canning line it is possible to change can size in just a couple of hours

The partnership between Core Equipment and Leibinger is set to commence immediately, with the first Leibinger canning machines expected to be available to UK customers within the next few months

Beverage producers interested in learning more about the new canning solutions are encouraged to contact Core Equipment directly

www.core-equip.com

SHOWC ASE Bottling & Canning Equipment

Enhancing canning operations at ‘Get The Drinks In’

Herefordshire-based ‘Get The Drinks In’ first worked with Core Equipment on a solution to canning its own products. After spotting an opportunity to support other growing beverage makers looking for a fully green and sustainable solution to its canning needs, Get the Drinks In shifted focus to fully sustainable contract canning.

From the offset, Get The Drinks In has focused on sustainability, generating all its own green energy for its canning process via anaerobic digestion, as well as recovering sustainable food grade CO2 for use in carbonation With increased appetite in the market for more environmentally friendly manufacturing and finished beverages, orders at Get The Drinks In were increasing rapidly and traditional canning methods were becoming a bottleneck, affecting the company's ability to meet market demands efficiently The business needed faster canning solutions capable of meeting the different format needs of customers

Tim Nolan, Production Director, said, “We were looking for a turnkey project and approached Core Equipment to deliver it We’ve been impressed by their

after-sales support and service The quality is second to none!”

To address the canning speed issue, Get The Drinks In partnered with Core Equipment, installing a complete counter pressure can filling line Core Equipment, renowned for providing high-quality beverage production equipment, recommended the solution due to its ability to streamline the canning process from automated depalletisation through to packaged product

Key Features of the Counter Pressure Can Filling Line:

• Reduced Fobbing: Counter pressure filling technology allows liquids to be filled at controlled pressure, significantly reducing the risk of fobbing (foaming) This results in higher quality products with consistent fill levels

• Minimised Oxygen Pickup: The process minimises oxygen pickup during filling, preserving the beverage's flavour and extending shelf life

• Increased Canning Speed: Up to 7,000 cans/hour

• High Throughput: The canning line can fill cans at a much faster rate compared to traditional methods This increase in speed directly translates to higher production volumes and lower labour costs

Since the installation of the counter pressure can filling line, Get The Drinks In has experienced significant improvements in its production process The new canning line has more than doubled the company's canning speed, allowing them to meet increased demand without compromising on quality

“We have already ordered more counter pressure canning from Core to meet further increases in demand – that’s how great it is!” added Tim Nolan

Unique can decorating service from Oasthouse

Oasthouse Engineering’s unique can decorating service for the United Kingdom provides craft drinks producers with the opportunity to decorate cans with photo-realistic images on a 360 degree basis, incorporating the neck, with no overlap band in evidence.

Using the latest high resolution

Hinterkopf digital printing technology, the service will be of particular interest to smaller craft brewers, distillers and cider makers, as quantities go from as little as 1, with the cost per can unaffected by minimum order requirements

The decorating service incorporates all types of can, including standard, sleek and slim, from 150ml up to the 568ml ‘pint’ can For the first time UK brewers will be able to directly decorate a 330ml sleek can, where previously a label would have been required

Standard lead times are typically three weeks, although a premium ‘Just-In-

Time’ service will also be available Resolutions up to 1,200dpi can be achieved, although there is a cost-saving by using a lower resolution An artwork service is also in the pipeline, with proofing either on-site or mailed out to the customer

Says Sam Morris of Oasthouse: “This is a unique service to UK craft. We can use metallic inks, thermographic inks, a mixture of matt and gloss, embossingwe can even produce a hybrid (partprint, part-label) can ”

SHOWC ASE Bottling & Canning Equipment

People, pints, planet - Hobsons hat-trick!

With its wide range of beers and increasing sales, Hobsons Brewery, based in Cleobury Mortimer, decided it was time to upgrade its existing bottling line with something faster whilst taking up the same space. The addition of a new warehouse provided some opportunities in the reduction of manual handling and pallet movements.

With some suppliers saying “it would never fit,” Enterprise Tondelli took on the challenge to meet Hobsons’ goals Working very closely with the owner, Mr Nick Davis, a plan was formulated, with the clever people at Enterprise having some tricks up their sleeves and coming up with a layout that defied the sceptics

Sustainability and locality is a big part of what Hobsons stands for All of the beers are brewed by local people, currently a close-knit team of 22 people using local ingredients with a backbone of sustainable technologies With a wind turbine on site, not only are you enjoying great beer but it’s being produced by green energy; with the turbine generating one third of the electricity needed to create each bottle of Hobsons beer

The bottling line project was carried out in two phases with

phase one being the installation of a new counter pressure rotary rinser/filler/crowner from Enterprise, along with incorporation conveyors The new filler had the same footprint as the old machine, but could produce twice as much The machine is designed for the craft sector so it is simple to use and easy to maintain Low oxygen pick up is always important, so the machine has double pre-evacuation to achieve less than 50 ppb Some existing equipment was utilised and integrated into the project by Enterprise

The filler was inspected in Italy by members of the Hobsons team and full training was given. Then installation and commissioning of the filler and first conveyors was carefully carried out by Hobsons staff This rationalised the need for additional travel and external resources and ensured Hobsons had all of the skills to run the machine

Phase two was installed once the remote warehouse was built and ready for the new automatic depalletiser which was manufactured in Italy by Eurosistemi Srl, an Enterprise company The high level all stainless steel machine allows short stack bottles with inverted trays to be depalletised in a very small space. Bottles are automatically discharged at high level (+3,500 mm) single filed, conveyed outside the warehouse, across a pedestrian walkway and then vertically lowered into the bottling room To lower the bottles from high level to filler in feed height a pad type stainless steel lowerator was also supplied as part of

Innovus 7-head inline machine

Innovus Engineering has announced the newest addition to its fully automatic beverage canning line-up.

The CF35 is a 7-head inline machine rated for 2,100 cans per hour, utilising servo-driven seaming technology, giving the user full control over seam settings via the touchscreen HMI.

As with all Innovus machines, the CF35 is built from all stainless steel for caustic safe CIP; features integrated brite tank pressure monitoring for highly repeatable fill levels to +/- 2ml; and delivers industry leading dissolved

Oxygen pickup levels of less than 20 ppb

The remote access feature means Innovus engineers can quickly offer insight and advice on fill or seam parameters if required, as well as monitor service requirements and the general operating health of the machine

the project The conveyor system was also from Eurosistemi, with controls for this mounted in the depalletiser control panel

Whilst the project at times posed some challenges, Nick Davis said, “We had several choices for the project, but Enterprise came well recommended by some of the brewers we know We are pleased with the end result, whenever there were difficulties Enterprise always tried their utmost to resolve the issues and help us We made a good choice ” Enterprise Tondelli has been working in the industry since 1977 and supplying equipment in over 40 countries The Hobsons Brewery bottling project is just one of the latest by Enterprise that has ranged in scope from nitro beer canning, high speed wine bottling and turn key beer bottling, supplying canning lines 1,500 to 72,000 cans per hour, bottling from 600 to 60,000 bph and kegging lines too This wealth of experience ensures Enterprise adds something to all of its projects

The CF35 is Innovus’ most technologically advanced beverage machine to date, all packed into a compact footprint and starting at just £72,000 / €85,000

SHOWC ASE Bottling & Canning Equipment

Automated solutions from Vitikit

Vitikit supplies and installs Sraml Monoblock Systems in different sizes. These systems are a set of automated high quality machines built in one unit to perform rinsing, glass, PET bottle or can filling and capping. They’re designed to perform different tasks during the bottling process while being part of the same block.

Monoblock Systems have many advantages over a stand-alone machine, such as reducing the time employees need to complete their work and the number of employees needed for a task These systems give users more time to focus on work that drives profits and economic success It can improve efficiency, productivity and quality control

All workflows in the monoblock system are monitored and the data is collected through a user-friendly touchscreen

interface The system features quick and easy bottle format changeover and high flexibility, even when working with different bottle shapes or closure types It takes just 13 minutes

The integral CIP system is fully automatic, which allows fast and thorough cleaning while complying with the highest food-safety standards. Remote access can be optionally included for easy remote control, troubleshooting, or updates

Vitikit provides an efficient, personal service built around customer ’s specific requirements in monoblock systems to suit the production line Also, Vitikit can

offer custom solutions for existing bottling lines and individual units to increase production and improve quality If you are interested in what Vitikit can do for your business, then its engineers and support staff always offer tailored advice and solutions unique to all our customers

Enterprise Tondelli has been supplying bottle and can fillers for more than 45 years

For slower speeds or craft producers, Enterprise supplies a range of fillers from 8 valves upwards with traditional mechanical filling valves that are simple and easy to work with Recent projects where the company has used this technology include a 9/8/1 for beer filling at 1,500 bottles.

For medium to high speeds and more complicated projects, Enterprise Tondelli also supplies a range of electropneumatic filling valves machines with a number of very important benefits for the end user This range of fillers feature electro pneumatically controlled filling valves

This very flexible technology means that the filling phases are precisely controlled from the operator

touch screen, allowing a wide range of preset recipes to be used For beer filling for instance this allows greater control of the CO2 flushing for cans or preevacuation, filling and snifting process to create a dense foam on the beer for reduction of oxygen pick up When using level filling externally adjustable vent tubes can be used to change the fill level in real time for different containers thus reducing parts and increasing hygiene

On can filling from 6,000 cans per hour upwards, Enterprise uses a can filler with a central filling bowl and electropneumatic filling valves The central filling bowl reduces product losses and is more hygienic due to its shape and also CIP spray ball for cleaning Using electro pneumatic filling valves means much lower maintenance due to fewer moving parts and elements and also much more controllable for the different products.

An innovative feature of these can fillers is also the facility for automatic CIP cups making cleaning much quicker and safer At the touch of a button the CIP cups are inserted and sealed for quick and easy sanitation

Another new development has been the implementation of flow meter filling for PET bottles as we use on our can fillers This is very important for high value products with high speed and Matrix has recently supplied two 90 valves machines to achieve better yields for a major international franchise

SHOWC ASE Bar & Cellar

We asked companies supplying the following products and services to let us know something about themselves....

l Drinks fonts, taps, beer engines, pump clips & lens, and also bar runners, anything on the bar!

l Promotional branded glassware for the retail market l Back-bar equipment and services

l Cellar equipment and services, including stillaging and cooling l Mobile bars

Booth Dispensers Mobile Event Cart is the ‘complete portable party kit’

It's now more important than ever to cater for outdoor festivities and enjoy the sun while keeping your customers refreshed and cool At Booth we understand the difficulty and importance of maintaining your drinks optimal temperatures during the summer period and have developed bespoke solutions to ensure your drinks are ice cold from the first drop to the last.

Whether you're planning a wedding, a festival, or a beer garden party, our mobile event carts will fit your every need Steady, durable and reliable, the event cart allows you to the move the

dispense point of your venue to different locations or cater for an event that does not have access to a cellar. The carts are fitted with six high quality wheels for smooth transportation through any terrain and each is fitted with independent brakes to keep it from moving on steep inclines offering a stable and secure dispense point anywhere at your event

The carts are fully manufactured at our main headquarters in the UK with three distinct contemporary styles to choose from: stainless-steel, vintage wood, or black powder coated We can also build a complete cart that is fully equipped with coolers, taps, regulators, and keg couplers to your specifications. All you

need to do is provide the gas and the product, and you're good to go!

Our event carts can also be

personalised with artwork that advertises your brand, company, or product and gives your setup a unique flair! Its magnetic material makes it easy to remove and replace quickly!

Discover the ‘next level’ in dispensing solutions

Innovation isn’t just a buzzword for TecFlo; it’s a commitment

At TecFlo, we prioritise innovation in everything we do, as it is the cornerstone of our operations We are committed to consistently enhancing and perfecting our products to meet the ever-evolving needs of the industry, ensuring that we stay at the forefront of technological advancements and market demands.

As part of our embrace of dispensing setups, we are thrilled to introduce the highly anticipated Hydrocarbon Refrigerant Shelf Cooler Meticulously engineered to surpass expectations, this new addition to our product line sets a new standard for excellence in both performance and efficiency

Let’s explore the remarkable features of our 4-out Shelf Cooler:

• Utilises eco-friendly R290 refrigerant, which contributes to our commitment to sustainability

• Equipped with a digital thermostat placed internally to prevent accidental setting changes, ensuring precise temperature control

• Includes a substantial 17L water tank and a robust 7KG ice bank, allowing for optimal cooling

• Boasts a powerful 377W compressor, which is designed for high performance and reliability

• Comes with a pump featuring a water recirculation system, enhancing efficiency and reducing water waste

• Consists of 4 coils, each 8 meters long with a 3/8” size, providing extensive cooling capabilities

• Features pre-installed 10 push-in fittings straight connectors for easy and quick installation

• a stainless steel evaporator and a durable steel case, ensuring longevity and easy maintenance

Furthermore, at TecFlo, we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive dispensing service, covering every aspect from keg to tap, ensuring that our clients receive the best possible experience In addition to our new products, we specialise in the remanufacturing of beer engines

Recognising that these units can be costly to replace, we offer refurbishment services to ensure your current beer engine operates like new again in just a

few days This service includes necessary replacement parts, all for one combined price, making it a costeffective solution for our customers

TecFlo will be exhibiting at Brau Beviale again this year Hall 5 Stand 316 If you are attending, come and meet our Managing Director, Emma, and the rest of our dedicated team in person We look forward to engaging with industry professionals and showcasing the innovative solutions we have developed to enhance your dispensing experience

SHOWC ASE Bar & Cellar

Illuminated Infinity Beer Font by HH Point of Sale: Lighting up your brand

In the competitive world of beer sales, making a memorable first impression is vital. Enter the Illuminated Infinity Beer Font by HH Point of Sale - a revolutionary product designed to captivate and elevate your brand's presence

Combining quality, flexibility, a low price point, and impressive lead times, this beer font stands out, quite literally, thanks to its striking illumination feature

At HH Point of Sale, quality is our hallmark The Illuminated Infinity Beer Font is meticulously crafted from premium materials, ensuring durability and consistent performance Our commitment to excellence is reflected in every detail, providing a reliable and seamless pour every time The superior construction not only enhances the visual appeal but also guarantees longevity The defining feature of the Illuminated Infinity Beer Font is its fullfont lighting. This powerful illumination draws the attention of bar-goers, making your brand the star of the show The bright, eye-catching light creates an additional Point of Sale command on the bar, ensuring your beer stands out even in the busiest venues The stunning lighting not only highlights your beer but also enhances the overall ambiance of the bar

Flexibility is key with the Illuminated Infinity Beer Font Designed to be branded to your specifications, it offers endless customisation possibilities Showcase your logo, brand colours, and unique messaging with ease. This level of customisation strengthens your brand identity and ensures a lasting

impression on customers The illumination feature further enhances your branding, making it impossible to miss Budget considerations are always a priority The Illuminated Infinity Beer Font provides a low price point without compromising on quality or features and this competitive pricing means you get exceptional value for your investment By choosing the Illuminated Infinity Font, you can elevate your brand’s visibility and customer experience without stretching your budget

Swift Delivery with Fast Lead Times

In the fast-paced beverage industry, timing is everything The Illuminated Infinity Beer Font offers impressive lead times, ensuring you receive your custom-designed font quickly Our efficient manufacturing process and dedicated team ensure timely delivery, allowing you to start reaping the benefits of your new beer font sooner The Illuminated Infinity Beer Font is more than just a dispenser; it's a magnet for customers The vibrant lighting not only attracts attention but also enhances the drinking experience This captivating design not only boosts aesthetic appeal but also drives greater beer sales by drawing customers to the bar

Mark Amphlett, Head of Global Marketing for HH Group, shares his excitement about the Illuminated Infinity Beer Font: “The Illuminated Infinity Beer Font is a true testament to our dedication to innovation and quality Its stunning illumination feature ensures that our clients’ brands stand out in any setting, driving greater customer engagement and boosting sales We are proud to offer a product that combines aesthetic appeal with functional

excellence, all at a competitive price point. I believe this new Illuminated Infinity Font is the one that the market will be chasing

“In a crowded market, differentiation is crucial The Illuminated Infinity Beer Font by HH Point of Sale offers an unbeatable combination of quality, flexibility, affordability, and efficiency, all enhanced by its striking illumination feature Designed to be a centrepiece that not only serves beer but also acts as a powerful marketing tool, this innovative beer font will transform your brand’s visibility and customer engagement ”

Green Field Marketing Solutions has acquired a 12,000 sq ft warehouse in Belfast following an investment of £200K.

The warehouse facility, which has space for over 600 pallets, will allow the specialist outsourced sales and merchandising company - which offers a ‘white glove’ service for companies

using its warehouse facility for point of sale, retail premia, retail furniture and equipment - to provide a unique solution for brands, POS and retail installation companies wanting the most efficient field marketing implementation across GB and the Island of Ireland.

Russell Johnston, Managing Director, Green Field Marketing explained, “We

have the ability to store, distribute and implement point of sale and retail display throughout the UK and Ireland We offer a fulfilment service for both our own field teams and our clients as well as a secure storage area for high value items.”

ASE Bar & Cellar

Online shop is a hit for Rudd Macnamara

Rudd Macnamara’s online shop is proving to be popular with breweries. There is a wide range of products available which can be ordered direct from the online portal at www.beerbranding.co.uk.

The reach of the internet means that we are not only attracting orders from Great Britain and Northern Ireland but also from other English speaking territories

such as the Republic of Ireland and from places where English is a commonly used language in business such as Scandinavia

The specified range of products on the website includes branding lenses, tap handles and pump jumpers For example the user can specify the type of lens they want and they have a number to choose from, be it a standard frog eye, a flat lens or a guest lens The user enters the number of products required and loads the artwork in a specified adobe format The price is quoted and paid for using a credit card payment system For a quick turnround the order goes straight down to the shop floor where a modern fleet of printing equipment is ready to produce the job

A spokesman for Rudd Macnamara said, “Customers seem to love the ease of ordering, the quick turnround and the excellent quality We like the simplicity of it and we have had no complaints from customers, only praise We are happy with the way the online ordering is progressing and if customers like it then

we do too, a win-win Users are also happy that we are accessible and if there is a question on the ordering process there is someone at the end of the phone or on email to answer the question ”

Other items have been added to the shop recently including metal signage

For further information:

www ruddmacnamara com

Two special offer bundles extended at Chemisphere

Chemisphere UK launched its hugely successful ‘Get Ready for Summer ’ campaign back in June but there’s still time to take advantage of the two special offer bundles aimed at beer line cleaning and glass washing within the hospitality industry.

To further support its mission to raise the bar for quality standards across the industry, Chemisphere launched the duo of summer special offers consisting of two bundles to make life easier for customers as they contain everything they’ll need at a massively discounted price

Linda Adamson, Marketing Manager at Chemisphere, said, “Summertime signals one of the most important sales periods for pubs, bars and restaurants so it’s vital that establishments prepare for this busy period in order to impress their customers and win that all important repeat custom ”

“I couldn’t agree more,” said Allan Stevenson, Draught Quality Training Manager at Chemisphere He continued, “People only buy a second

pint based on the quality of the first and a good pint starts with exceptional line hygiene and immaculately clean glassware ”

By committing to these elevated hygiene standards, establishments maximise their chances of taking existing and newly acquired summer customers along with them into Autumn and Winter

This is the latest initiative from Chemisphere that aims to show support for the industry during difficult times as well as positioning the company as the go-to expert for premium quality detergents and accessories for ware-washing, beverage dispense system sterilisation and kitchen hygiene

huge success and hosts a wide range of training courses from pouring the perfect pint to complete cellar management for both employees and techs

To further support its ‘expert’ status, it is also the home of The Chemisphere Training Academy A custom-built training facility that houses a unique combination of classroom and working cellar learning, the academy has been a

To again support its mission to raise standards across the industry, Chemisphere is freezing its discounted opening offer prices which sees courses starting from as little as £10 per delegate. www chemisphereuk com

For further information:

Making beer line cleaning simpler and cheaper

Beer Piper, home of the automated beer line cleaning system, is offering a package deal to make beer line cleaning simpler, more consistent and ultimately cheaper by focusing on quality.

For just £175 a month* clients will receive a Beer Piper unit and all chemicals delivered bi-monthly This amazing deal also includes installation, training, technical support, a free hygiene starter pack, discounts on other products, as well as use of the dedicated app and portal.

It’s no secret that times are tough and businesses are worried and the hospitality industry is no exception Identifying new money saving measures is at the forefront of everyone’s minds and this is where Beer Piper can help

The Beer Piper system is easy to use and can result in major cost savings for clients by reducing the amount of time staff spend on the task – a clean takes just 8 5 minutes! Not only does the system improve staff efficiencies, but it also ensures consistent high quality cleans are achieved every

New

When Brewfitt was approached by the team behind Kingfisher Lager, the brief was clear: Create a bespoke tap handle that embodies their new strapline, “Look Up & See The Beauty.”

From the initial concept to the final delivery, Brewfitt managed every stage of the process Working closely with the Kingfisher team, we took their vision and transformed it into reality Our journey began with understanding their unique

time The sealed system mixes the neat beer line cleaner with fresh water directly into the lines, ensuring the correct dilution rate regardless of flow

The superior quality chemicals used and supplied by Beer Piper ensure lines are immaculate and allow clients to serve the best pints possible Another advantage of this is that with time clients can go longer between cleans The automated nature of the system also means that there is no need to manually mix these chemicals thus reducing the associated risks to staff

No CO2 is required with the Beer Piper system so the surging costs of CO2 in the UK need not be a concern The system also uses much less water than a manual clean so this also adds to the cost savings being made.

As does Beersave – a function unique to an automated line clean as it allows the beer that would usually be wasted and poured down the drain before a clean to be sold, ensuring even more money is saved

requirements, followed by meticulous technical drawings, ensuring every detail was captured perfectly

The result is an impactful tap handle that is instantly recognisable, showcasing the prominence of the iconic Kingfisher bird

Each tap handle is hand-painted, highlighting the intricate details and

SHOWC ASE Bar & Cellar

Understanding the risks during a CO2 Shortage –a Food, Beverage & Brewing perspective

As shortages of carbon dioxide hit the headlines in the UK again, quality can be overlooked in the trade off over availability. This article discusses the risks associated with supply chain disruption and the need for greater awareness as well as a solution to manage this risk to beverage quality and food safety.

Background

In Europe, Carbon Dioxide purchased for use by the food, beverage & brewing industries is traditionally created as a by-product from only three sources These are known in the industry as traditional sources, the primary products made by these sources produce Ammonium Nitrate production (Nitrogen fertiliser), Ethanol production (industrial fermentation) and hydrogen production (steam methane reforming) All these sources face frequent economic and seasonal challenges for production operations to remain viable This includes increasing energy costs, raw material shortages and seasonal demand for the primary products e g fertiliser

This requires careful planning and a lot of co-operation between the two parties responsible for all of the CO2 supplied to the food and beverage Industry; firstly the company

operating the raw gas source of by-product CO2 and secondly the suppliers of the CO2 to the food and beverage industry; the Bulk Industrial Gas producer who buys, processes and distributes the CO2 is responsible for the quality, supply contracts and the supply chain feeding the food and beverage industries end users

Since carbon dioxide is the only industrial gas used an ingredient (primarily for carbonation) by the beverage industry, the hospitality sector relies heavily on CO2 as a primary dispense gas for dispensing alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (keg beer, post mix soda etc)

Historical CO2 Shortages

Disruption to the CO2 supply chain is caused when the careful planning and co-operation between the producer of the raw gas by-product and the Industrial Bulk Gas company cannot foresee an extreme event, such as an unplanned plant stoppage, issue with a raw material, energy price hikes or power failure

Current CO2 Shortage

The ongoing disruptions in the UK are well publicised, it’s not a new event or even a one that could not be predicted. Over half of the UK’s bulk CO2 used to come from only two fertiliser plants from the same company (US based CF Industries)

which shut down in 2023 due to high natural gas and energy prices compounded with poor market conditions for the primary product Further imbalance occurs because the UK has had limited choices when it comes to sourcing CO2, this has led most suppliers of Bulk Industrial Gas to supplement their supply chain with sources from mainland Europe, typically from the three traditional source types mentioned earlier

A perfect storm occurred two summers ago when several of the largest sources in mainland Europe were forced to shut down effectively cutting off the supplementary supply

A temporary arrangement was put in place to restart one of the CF Industries plants after a deal between UK Government and CF Industries was reached in early October, but this was a short-lived solution.

Source Specific Impurities

When CO2 is produced it contains chemical impurities specific to its source, so for example ethanol fermentation contains high amounts of ethanol in the raw CO2 A lot of care is taken by the Bulk Industrial Gas producer to monitor the condition of the incoming raw gas to their purification process (which is typically designed to cope with a list of known impurities within a certain range of concentrations), this process reduces the number of impurities to levels well below the requirements of the food and beverage industry to make it safe for us to consume Because CO2 is the only industrial gas we consume, the quality is tightly controlled and certified (COA on bulk only).

Continued opposite

By Gary Robson, CEO,

Sure Purity Ltd

Process and Handling Contamination

Even CO2 produced to the highest purity can be contaminated through handling, third party transportation and storage. This is due to handling errors as well as the potential for cross contamination

New Sources and their challenges

As traditional CO2 sources shut down and slowly disappear from the supply chain, new sources have emerged Some are growing at a rapid rate, such as Biomethane upgrading (from biogas anaerobic digesters on farms). With all new sources comes an increased element of risk, due to many unknowns such as

• New source specific impurities

• New emerging gas production companies in an agricultural setting with a low level of experience.

• Food safety concerns; feedstock type and associated risks, environment

• Knowledge gaps particularly around CO2 plant operations, testing and sensory analysis

• Adequate testing, analysis and certification to acceptable standards

Managing the risk and ensuring compliance from a Food, Beverage & Brewing industry perspective

The reader of this article may be viewing this either from a beverage/beer producer or a hospitality operators’ perspective, however the need for consistently high-quality CO2 that meets an acceptable standard should be the same for both CO2 filled into cylinders and supplied to hospitality outlets is typically not supplied with a certificate of analysis, thus ensuring impurities remain within the industry standard which become challenging

One should also consider that the CO2 in cylinders is often not the same as the bulk CO2 delivered to a beverage manufacturer or larger brewery Bulk is often delivered as a tested full truck load with a detailed certificate of analysis, tested to either the International Society of Beverage Technologists (ISBT) or European Industrial Gas Association (EIGA) standards, which both have a table of impurities with maximum allowable limits harmonised for industry acceptance

In most cases CO2 filled into cylinders complies with E290 (Assimilated Regulation EU 1333/2008 on Food additives), this is different to ISBT and EIGA and only covers 7 chemical compounds instead of 18 listed by ISBT and EIGA E290 does not require any sensory analysis of the CO2 at any point in the supply chain, whereas both ISBT and EIGA require this for CO2 used in the production of beverages In legal terms the carbon dioxide “shall be fit for purpose and its intended use ” There have been recent incidents when this has not been the case, leading to serious consequences including product recalls, licenses revoked, and a lot of products being scrapped as being rendered unsafe for human consumption

Protecting Food, Beverages and Beer & Cider from these risks

To ensure this risk is managed, purchasers of CO2 should understand where the CO2 is coming from where possible, as the source of the CO2 can tell us a lot about the source specific impurities, the risks, how it is processed, quality and the risk to food safety For purchasers of bulk CO2, a Certificate of Analysis should be a minimum

Gar y Robson

Gar y has wor ked in the bever a ge industr y for mor e than 25 year s, specialising in the contr ol of contamination in liquids and gases, with exper tise in Carbon Dioxide.

Gar y is known for his wor k with Unisensor Sensor systeme GmbH a manufactur er based in Ger many of advanced Infr ar ed spectr ometer s for the on-line anal ysis of Carbon Dioxide quality called Carboscan.

In 2016 Gar y founded Sur e Purity, a manufactur er of the Carboguar d advanced multi-sta ge polishing filtr ation systems based in the UK. Gar y has been a member of the ISBT for 20 year s and has held various r oles, including Technical Committee Chair, Co-Chair of the or ganising committee for the Re gional Bevtech g r oups in Eur ope and Latin America, a member of the boar d of Dir ector s and in 2018-2019 ser ved as the Pr esident of the Society.

requirement and always be provided on every delivery In addition to this you can protect yourself at your point of use from chemical and physical impurities (such as oil, dirt and rust – known as NVOR) using CO2 polishing filters. These special filtration systems remove harmful impurities than can create off notes, spoilage, poor foam retention (in the case of beer) and cause consumer safety issues Carboguard brand polishing filters are a well proven and effective barrier that have prevented many CO2 quality related incidents around the world and perform well regardless of the source of CO2 They are available in small medium and large formats from applications from small microbreweries up to large bottling plants and breweries

This year Sure Purity launched the Carboguard mini system that is designed specifically for the hospitality industry for drinks and beer dispense and gives the same level of protection to that of the larger format.

FO CU S UK Cider

We asked companies supplying the UK Cider market to let us know something about their products and services.

SRAML cider making equipment from Vitikit

The most important stage of cider making is apple pressing, which is why we go above and beyond to provide our customers with cutting edge apple pressing equipment.

Vitikit Limited is partnered with Šraml, one of the best manufacturers of fruit processing equipment throughout Europe Apple juice is extracted on an industrial scale using different devices Several different press construction solutions are used in the food industry

One of the most popular of these is the belt press. Sraml offers 4 types of single and 4 types of double belt presses with different capacities and specifications

Sraml plate flash pasteurisers are designed for heating liquid products to the pasteurisation temperature, holding the product at this temperature for a desired time, and rapidly cooling it after

The heat source, for heating water, can be oil, gas fired burner, electric heater or steam The pasteuriser features a userfriendly touchscreen interface which allows simple control of the pasteurisation process and quick and easy cleaning after use with the help of the cleaning program All the components are assembled on a stable stainless steel frame with adjustable feet

Sraml CP fillers are a series of counterpressure fillers, suitable for filling carbonated or still (cold or hot) liquids into bottles/cans The fillers are mechanical, the individual filling steps are mechanically operated with reliable cams The filler consists of a rotary carousel and a pressure bowl, with a set of filling valves, allowing the filling of multiple bottles/cans at the same time in continuous motion, without stopping The pressure in the tank is plc controlled via a digital pressure sensor It is

precisely maintained inside the tolerance of ±0,05 bar of set pressure Filling valves are built from machined stainless-steel parts, with no welds or threads in contact with the product The liquid is gently poured on the side of the bottle, minimising the product agitation The filling height is set by changing the filling tubes on the valve

For further information:

info@vitikit com

Positioning cider for profit by Miles Pinfold

We are currently in cider season, two thirds of cider drinkers mainly drink it in the summer months, and England is by far the biggest cider producer and consumer in the world.

Over the years cider has made various attempts to reinvigorate the category –Magners revolutionised the market with a different serve (on ice) and Heineken capitalised on the craft boom with Old Mout Whilst Kopparberg and Rekorderlig continue to expound the virtues of flavoured cider Ironically the above-mentioned brands all originated outside of the UK.

According to The Grocer, cider is seeing a polarisation in sales, with growth in both premium and value, whilst the middle is being squeezed The total UK cider market is valued at a not insignificant £1 1bn (compared to £5 5bn for beer), split £689m off-trade and £394 on-trade Moreover, the consumer switch from wines and sprits to beer and cider looks to be continuing

So why is cider still failing to fully capitalise on market opportunities and not taking its lead from the rest of the alcoholic drinks sector? Its main

competitor, beer, has revolutionised the category over the past two decades to position itself in the high-end through innovation (or reinvention) and brand repositioning Whilst wine, arguably more comparable to cider in its production process, has seen a flood of exciting and innovative branding in recent years

Also, why are discerning British consumers choosing foreign ciders in preference to our own home-grown ciders, many of which have been crafted for centuries and have all the premium credentials of provenance and authenticity? There is clearly a market opportunity in our less-is-more society for premiumisation and craft beer has demonstrated how to capitalise on this through compelling narratives and brand building

For cider producers, the 4Ps of marketing (Product, Price, Placement, Promotion) are a good sense check to help ensure your brand is market fit:

• Product – The UK has a cider heritage that no one else can come close to, it also has more diversity and authenticity than beer and yet this is largely ignored by the mainstream

• Price – The cider market is moving

towards premiumisation and cider needs to fully capitalise on this and differentiate from the value-end of the market

• Placement – is key and the opportunity is to take learnings from the market’s beer counterparts (and wines too) to build compelling propositions and position cider in the high-end

• Promotion – it is essential to get your product, price and positioning right to ensure investment in promotion delivers real returns

Leave the more-for-less end of the cider market to those who have the capacity to concentrate on value The opportunity is to use innovation and branding to create a more convincing and differentiating category for cider as a unique and artisanal product

As the business mantra goes – volume is vanity, profit is for sanity

Myles Pinfold is brand and strategy director at WPA Pinfold He has an in-depth insight into the world of drinks branding and writes extensively about it

FO CU S UK Cider

Flavoured cider – opportunities and inspiration

Cider is a quintessentially British drink. With rich heritage, fresh flavour and broad appeal it aligns with wider drinks trends, suiting those seeking sustainable produce, bold flavours, or lowerproof and budget-friendly drinks

So, even in the continued challenging trading climate, there are a range of opportunities for cider brands, around new or unusual flavours, premium or limited-edition creations, and NoLo alternatives.

The UK’s cider market is now worth £3 06bn Within this, flavoured ciders deliver 32% of the category’s value sales – across off-trade they are bought by 27 7% of UK households while in the on-trade premium flavoured draught cider enjoyed 85% growth in value sales in three years*

Cider appeals to around half of adults, with 46% choosing it through 202223** It is particularly popular with younger adults (63%) and women, one-in-four of whom drink it at least once a week* Both demographics tend to prefer flavoured ciders too

Opportunities for Flavoured Cider

Caleb Simpson, Managing Director of drinks manufacturer Simpson’s Beverages, says: “Innovation in the cider category is being driven by new flavours We’ve seen unusual new cider flavours work well as limited

edition releases in recent years, piquing the interest of drinkers who increasingly like a novelty or escapist aspect to their purchases. There’s also opportunity for flavours of cider that align with wider drinks trends Bold winter flavours will strengthen the category’s year-round appeal, for example

“And even in the face of spending pressures for most consumers, premium cider options shouldn’t be overlooked - value for money doesn’t just mean a lower price point The growth of sober-curious drinking means there’s plenty of opportunities for NoLo alternatives in the cider category too, particularly flavoured varieties ”

Cider flavours – ideas & inspiration

Inspiration for new flavours of cider can come from both the established bestsellers and the emerging innovators While berry cider flavours hold the largest share of flavoured cider sales, having been enjoyed by drinkers for 10 years now, there’s plenty of scope for citrus cider flavours, exotic flavours of cider, and bold new cider flavours too

Thatchers’ Blood Orange cider is now a top-five bestseller, achieving 34 9% YOY growth* to show the appeal of citrus cider flavours The rise in popularity of unusual international citruses holds opportunity here now,

Why

such as Snails Bank’s yuzu flavoured cider International ingredients can create exotic flavours of cider too, like Strongbow’s new Tropical cider, and Old Mout Cider ’s Pineapple & Raspberry Sweeter or more unusual flavour combinations appeal for bold new cider flavours, particularly as seasonal serves, like Kopparberg’s Spiced Apple

For mass appeal though, berry cider flavours are best Thatchers’ new Apple & Blackcurrant is already worth £4.3m, while Strongbow Dark Fruits continues to be the top selling fruit flavoured cider*

Simpsons Beverages supplies flavour compounds that contain all the ingredients required to manufacture flavoured cider in a single concentrated liquid This is blended with cider before canning or bottling, which really helps to simplify the manufacturing process Get in touch to discuss your next project

*Weston’s Cider Report 2024, **Mintel – Cider, UK 2023, ***Heineken Cider Report 2023

amber glass is the best choice for cider

With 270 years of experience, Beatson Clark has designed and manufactured amber glass packaging for many food and drink products, including beer and cider.

Amber glass has some unique advantages that make it the perfect choice for many products

One of the most significant advantages is that it offers exceptional UV protection, blocking out harmful rays from the sunlight This can be crucial to protect the colour and flavour of products like cider which

can be affected by UV light Amber glass protects the product within from over 90% of harmful UV light, it helps to extend the shelf life of the cider, and it ensures that the quality of the product remains unchanged

Another advantage of amber glass is its high recycled content, which makes it a sustainable and environmentally-friendly packaging option The dark brown colour of amber glass means more recycled cullet, or waste glass, can replace raw materials during the melting process Beatson Clark uses an average of 56% post-consumer recycled material to make its amber glass containers

Aside from the scientific advantages, amber glass is sometimes chosen for aesthetic and marketing reasons too

Dark amber glass can convey a sense of quality, making the product feel more premium, and this is particularly appreciated in the beverage sector

The protective qualities of amber glass and its ability to enhance shelf life and product quality make it a perfect choice for cider and other premium drinks.

Several products in Beatson Clark’s general sale are offered in amber and are available from stock

To find out more about why amber glass packaging might be the best option for your cider, contact the team at Beatson Clark

Bürkert modulating control valves help UK brewery secure productivity

Whether bitter, ale, lager or craft –the incredible choice of beers makes competition between brewers fierce. To gain share in a saturated market and meet consumer demand, breweries need production equipment such as control valves to operate with the utmost reliability

Consequently, when a well-known UK brewery noticed its mechanical interface modulating control valves were becoming very maintenance intensive, it approached Bürkert for a better solution.

Brewing is a complex process encompassing hop and grain selection, mashing, boiling, heating, cooling, fermentation and bottling – and valves play a crucial role in delivering the perfect bottle, can or pint

At the brewery in the UK, an array of modulating control valves was responsible for regulating various processes such as glycol supply to the chillers, steam control to the heat exchangers, as well as CO2 and O2 supply for fermentation and storage As required in the food and beverage industry, equipment was subjected to regular chemical washdowns.

Furthermore, the need to meet supply agreements placed high operational demands on the whole process, including the valves Traditional modulating control valves rely on a mechanical interface, with the valve’s

position controlled via a series of levers or pivots. This has limitations. First, mechanical wear on components can compromise valve accuracy over time, affecting processes and overall product quality Chemicals from repeated washdowns can also clog the mechanisms, reducing valve performance

Bürkert’s

The brewery was suffering from all these issues, resulting in deteriorating valve accuracy and increasing failures While repair work could be completed during scheduled maintenance, the valves were becoming a time sink, with every planned shutdown dedicated to fixing them Diaphragm actuators in the valves were adding to the problem, as they were not suitable for use with ingredients used in the brewing process The situation was having an adverse effect on other projects and greatly increasing operating expenditure (OPEX) – a position operators couldn’t tolerate

Looking for a long-term solution, the brewery approached Bürkert, a leading manufacturer of fluid control solutions for the brewing sector After dialogue with the customer, Bürkert recommended its ELEMENT range of pneumatically actuated continuous control valves – which directly addressed the limitations of the previous equipment

Bürkert began the process of replacing all the valves at the brewery around five

years ago, and during that time, the new replacements have required no maintenance This has saved time, allowing brewery staff to engage in other projects, and reduced OPEX, improving overall profitability One valve even had a large quantity of chemical spilt over it and was left for several days The brewery was impressed to discover that it was completely unaffected

Additionally, Bürkert has provided the customer ’s engineering team with training regarding the maintenance process for the new valves All involved were impressed with the easy, straightforward procedures Furthermore, ELEMENT valves can be remotely monitored, so the condition of each unit can be discerned without time consuming inspections at each valve With the profusion of beers available to consumers, getting products on the shelves or to the pumps is imperative for breweries to achieve success With its new, highly reliable and accurate Bürkert ELEMENT valves, this brewery can reach the productivity levels required to get ahead.

The SMF Foodmag from ifm provides an effective solution for hygienic flow measurement of a variety of media with a conductivity > 5 µS/cm - such as beer or fruit juice

It goes without saying that the SMF Foodmag meets the stringent hygiene requirements of food and beverage production The technology installed in every SMF device for these flow measurements covers changing media such as beer or fruit juices without a hitch Including cleaning procedures involving typical CIP chemicals, rapid

temperature shifts, and hot steam cleaning at a minimum of 121°C Additionally, the meters are extremely resistant to vibration and pressure spikes when meters are placed directly in front of a pump for exampleinductive flow meters, technology established for many years, meet these demands by offering precision without mechanical components in diverse media The SM Foodmag meter conquers obstacles, ensuring hygienic flow measurement in the food sector

The SM Foodmag provides a comprehensive solution for measuring various parameters in a single device:

flow rate, totaliser, temperature, and conductivity are all monitored and can be displayed simultaneously It can even detect if the measurement pipe is fully filled Two versions of the meter will be available - one with a display and the other without a display

New possibilities for cask handling

The KAUP Cask Handler 0.3T415W provides new possibilities for internal transport logistics This forklift truck attachment has transformed the way casks are handled, providing quick and effective transportation and movement of casks, whilst also minimising manual handling tasks throughout warehouses and cellars

Designed for working in confined spaces the 0 3T415W can handle stacked casks (both empty and filled) This unique forklift attachment can navigate casks through the narrowest of spaces and is able to turn them up to 180°, allowing casks to be lifted and placed to the left and/or right in the direction of travel

The attachment has an independent side shift which allows the KAUP Cask Handler to move laterally by 100mm, in addition, the carriage can move 320mm within the frame so that a total side-shift stroke of 420mm is readily available

The carrying rams are fitted with adjustable rubber rollers which allow handling of nearly all sizes and versions of wine and spirit casks The rams are fitted with mechanical rolling castors allowing the forklift operator to gently set down the cask, drive forward slowly, whilst rolling and mixing the cask at the same time Additionally, the Cask Handler attachment aids with the task of lifting and rotating casks stacked on blocks

The KAUP Cask Handler is available throughout the UK from B&B Attachments, the leading forklift truck attachment company in the UK and Ireland

Exhibition visit with added value

BrauBeviale has put together a complete package for its new edition which will take place from 26 to 28 November 2024 in Nuremberg, Germany

The forums in Halls 1 and 9 will become the stages for experts from research and industry The topics of raw materials & marketing, as well as technology & packaging, will be highlighted there Visitors can also take in the special areas on Start-ups & Young Talents, Logistics and Wine & Spirits A special place at the show is the dedicated Craft Drinks Area, which is the destination ‘par excellence’ for all craft brewers Hall 1 offers everything related to raw materials & marketing

In keeping with the exhibitor portfolio in Hall 1 it has become a tradition that the forum located there should answer important questions on raw material topics For example, new climateresilient barley varieties or the challenges facing malt production in the light of climate change Up-dated information on new hop varieties, which are proving to be very promising in this context, points in a similar direction Of course, hop cultivation will also be discussed in the broader scenario of environmental protection and economic efficiency, as will future scenarios for yeast cultivation by fermentation specialists These raw material topics will be offered on 26 and 28 November 2024.

Under the auspices of the Verband Private Brauereien Bayern e V , the conceptual sponsor of the exhibition, this year's BrauBeviale will offer a programme tailored to current brewery topics as part of the technology programme in Hall 9 On Tuesday, 26 November 2024, the focus will be on "Energy efficiency for SMEs" Topics that will be rolled out here include sustainability in new building projects, energy management systems and the use of heat pumps There will also be an overview of integrated energy concepts for SMEs. On Thursday, 28 November 2024, the association is planning a broad information programme on the topic of "Non-alcoholic beers" Firstly, the role of yeast in the production of non-alcoholic beers and the product development of a non-alcoholic beer in practice will be highlighted By looking at examples of best practice, from European Beer Star winners, brewers

will be given a broad overview and the opportunity to discuss the processes employed in this beer segment with experts

Beverage manufacturers interested in current packaging issues will be well served on Wednesday, 27 November 2024, also in Hall 9 One example of the different approaches to be presented in this programme is the following focus: "Glass - metal - composites? The packaging preferences of young consumers'

The programme will of course also address the implementation of the PPWR in individual markets at this point: "The EU has decided - what now? The PPWR for beverages in Europe " The main aim here will be to provide an assessment of the implications and solutions in various markets Marketing specialists should therefore plan their visit to BrauBeviale on Wednesday in particular, as this is when they will also be able to take in the key areas of marketing and packaging in the lecture programme

Following the successful launch in 2023, there will once again be a LOGISTICS LOUNGE at BrauBeviale this year YONTEX as organizer, along with pool operator LOGIPACK as the organiser and host of the special themed area, are thus taking into account the increasing importance of logistics in the entire beverage industry

On an area twice as large as last year's, the new motto is "The efficiency of reusable logistics" The location of the lounge has been moved further into the centre of the show and an additional area has been added, where a processes, will be presented directly adjacent to the LOGISTIK LOUNGE

The concept includes the participation of as many different and complementary partners from the logistics and digitalisation sector as possible

NEWS Equipment

St. Peter ’s Brewery elevates beer quality with Anton Paar ’s Alcolyzer 1001

St Peter ’s Brewery, renowned for its award-winning beers crafted from the finest East Anglian malt, has further enhanced its brewing process with the integration of Anton Paar ’s Alcolyzer 1001

This state-of-the-art instrument ensures precise and rapid measurements, bringing confidence and consistency to the brewery’s operations

“Everything we did was roughly accurate before Anton Paar,” says Steve Groves, Head Brewer at St Peter ’s Brewery

“That’s just confirmed that we weren’t far off in the first place, but it’s given us the confidence that we’re not having any issues with anything at all It’s rapid and accurate, and that’s all you need ”

The Alcolyzer 1001 addresses several challenges in the brewing process, particularly in maintaining beer quality

The instrument allows for multiple samples throughout the brewing run, enabling the brewery to monitor the state of fermentation before filtration and packaging This early detection of potential issues allows for timely adjustments, ensuring the final product meets the highest standards

“With Anton Paar, we are able to do multiple samples throughout the run We can see the state of fermentation of the extracts even before we go to filtration

and packaging We are always pre-warned if there’s an issue, and we can put it back Because it’s so quick –because it takes so little sample – it’s just perfect,” Groves explains “The more you sample, the more consistency you have Because it’s such a rapid, accurate test, it’s no issue If you get it spot-on at the start, it should follow on right through to the end It’s totally accurate; there’s nothing better ”

The Alcolyzer 1001 simplifies various measuring processes by providing comprehensive data in one device It measures densities, alcohol content, and calorific values swiftly and accurately, eliminating the need for external, costly, and time-consuming testing This capability is crucial for St Peter ’s Brewery, which must comply with stringent quality audits for supermarket sales

Anton Paar ’s reputation in the brewing industry made it an easy choice for St Peter ’s Brewery Known for its rapid determination and reliability, Anton Paar ’s instruments are standard in many breweries, both in laboratories and on production lines

“I’ve been around quite a long time, and I’ve worked in breweries where it’s the

standard We were looking for rapid determination and we just thought ‘Anton Paar ’ Any of the breweries you talk to, not only do they have one in the laboratory, they also have one on the line too,” says Groves

The Alcolyzer 1001 is not only a valuable asset for St Peter ’s Brewery; it also brings significant benefits to the industry Its simplicity, speed, and accuracy make it an indispensable tool for brewers aiming for high-quality and consistent results

“If you have a process or some form of analysis which is complicated and longwinded, people get tired of it and don’t want to do it They want something simple, quick, and accurate They don’t want to wait for a long range of samples – they want something easy and accurate, and then they’re happy to use it,” Groves concludes

Electric hoist leaves large distillery in high spirits

The world’s largest producer of spirits is now benefiting from a turnkey package of three Italkrane ATEX-rated electric chain hoists supplied by Hoist & Winch Ltd.

Operational within a new extension of the Scotland-based distillery, the 2-ton swl (safe working load) hoists raise and lower sealed vessel lids and baskets containing raw materials used in the production of gin

Among the challenges of this demanding project was a restriction in the overall height of the new building due to local planning laws In turn, only limited headroom is available for lifting operations over the vessels Critical for the application, therefore, was the

specification by Hoist & Winch of Italkrane YY series electric chain hoists featuring a low-headroom design The ATEX specification of the hoists is necessary due to the vapours and fumes produced in the manufacture of alcohol-based products

Italkrane YY series electric chain hoists feature an Ex d electrical enclosure design to contain any explosions and stop flames, sparks and hot gases from escaping Full anti-spark features are in place for all components subject to sliding friction, including the brass trolley wheels Also present is a non-sparking load hook, brass anti-tip device and polycarbonate pendant control ensuring explosion protection up to Zone 1 II B T4 classification

The power supply to each hoist unit is via a festoon cable track system complete with sliding trolleys and support arms clipped to the top flange of the hoist runway beam Each hoist unit also features an Italkrane heavy-duty geared top/bottom limit switch and friction-type slipping clutch overload protection device

Buzzing with excitement with Arden Forest Honey! NEWS Ingredients

Shakespeare Distillery has launched a special 3-year Aged Honey Rum in a local collaboration with Arden Forest Honey, producers of artisan English honey from the ancient forest of Arden in Warwickshire.

Shakespeare Distillery crafts its Jester White Rum from scratch by fermenting British milled molasses and distilling it into a smooth buttery spirit In April 2021 the independent carbon neutral spirit producer began carefully selecting and filling a series of ex-industry barrels with their rum

Each cask was chosen to give a range of fantastic flavours which will be released in a series of limitededition aged rums

Aged Honey Rum is the second Cask Aged Rum to be unveiled It has been matured for 3 years in a Wild Turkey bourbon cask and blended with award-winning Warwickshire Wildflower Honey.

Arden Forest Honey is a family run business, which was started in 2008, supplying high quality honey from hives across Warwickshire and Worcestershire The Wildflower Honey is from the biodiverse Heart of England Forest and ancient Ragley estates and it has been awarded its second star in the 'Guild of Fine Food' awards

Steve Browning, owner of Arden Forest Honey (pictured with Esme), said, “Working alongside the awardwinning Shakespeare Distillery was a natural collaboration It is great to see our honey used in another local product, allowing customers the opportunity to have a taste of the abundance of wildflowers grown in fields around the distillery and the local area”

Simon Picken, Director at Shakespeare Distillery said, “We’re delighted to launch our Aged Honey Rum, working in collaboration with a fellow artisan producer in

Warwickshire The rum we’ve created is wonderfully light and balanced with fruity notes and a smooth mouth feel I can’t wait for our customers to taste this delicious limited-edition rum ”

Colour supplier GNT to expand into fermentation

GNT is working to develop new plant-based, sustainable EXBERRY® colour solutions for food and drink using unique fermentation technologies.

The company has been creating EXBERRY® colours from fruit, vegetables, and plants since its foundation in 1978 It is now expanding into fermentation for the first time to increase innovation and sustainability in its plant-based solutions

Producing colours through fermentation allows for improved functionality as well as highly efficient and sustainable year-round production Once the raw materials have been cultivated, they can be scaled up in larger bioreactors for industrial production This phase involves maintaining optimal conditions to ensure high biomass yield and pigment concentration

To deliver on its aims, GNT has chosen to collaborate with Plume Biotechnology, a UK-based start-up focused on innovation in fermentation science and bioprocessing for natural colours

Frederik Hoeck, GNT Group’s Managing Director, said: “As pioneers in plant-based colours, innovation has always been crucial to GNT and we’re fully committed to delivering cuttingedge solutions for our customers As a family business, we understand the importance of acting responsibly and ensuring we are truly sustainable This partnership with Plume will help us add new, futureproof options to our plant-based EXBERRY® portfolio ”

Thomas Burns, CEO at Plume Biotechnology, said: “The rapid evolution of fermentation-based technologies is providing unprecedented opportunities within the realms of natural colours Plume is passionate about translating these cutting-edge technological developments into healthy, exciting, and sustainable products for consumers In GNT, we have found the perfect strategic partner with a shared commitment to delivering excellent products whilst keeping sustainability at the heart of everything we do ”

The collaboration is designed to help GNT expand the options in its plantbased EXBERRY® portfolio while

meeting its sustainability ambitions In 2022, GNT announced 17 targets to optimise its environmental and social impacts by the end of the decade

Its Sustainability Report 2023 revealed significant progress on many of those goals, including a 22% reduction in carbon intensity at the company’s factories since 2020 and a 13% improvement in water efficiency

Finn Rieken, Strategy Director at GNT Group, said: “We are committed to leading the food and drink colouring industry on sustainability As well as promoting responsible agriculture and cutting emissions at our factories, we’re constantly exploring new options for highly sustainable colours that can deliver exceptional performance We believe fermentation-based colours have huge potential to tick both those boxes

“We are confident that working with Plume will allow us to deliver exciting new plant-based, sustainable solutions for food and beverage manufacturers around the world.”

Family-run Bolton brewery is top of the hops

Bank Top Brewery - Bolton’s oldest brewery, founded in 1995 and located in the former mill village of Bank Top, just north of Bolton, Lancashire - uses top quality, international hops sourced from Charles Faram, a company that has been supplying hops for over 150 years.

All of the brewery’s ‘fan-favourite flavours’ are developed through skilled ingredient mixing with no artificial colours or flavourings, by Ben and his brewing team

Prior to Covid, Ben started to build a closer working relationship with the team at Charles Faram and much discussion was had regarding its Hop Development Program Charles Faram has been striving for years to improve not only the aromas and flavours of British hops but also make them a more viable crop in the changing climate This includes looking to line breed in drought and disease resistance, a real blight on traditional British hops

Ben was keen to get Bank Top involved in the program and Charles Faram wanted to trial more hops in finished products, so Ben took receipt of various hop strains and developed recipes to showcase each one This led to the introduction of the Bank Top single hop ‘Brewery Sessions’ series

Tester barrels of the brews have been sent to Charles Faram HQ in Malvern to be sampled at the grower ’s meetings They have been well received by the hop growers, able to try and taste the possible future for British hops and British Beer.

On the back of the Brewery Session Series, Bank Top introduced “Harlequin”, a 4 2% British Pale Ale single hopped with Harlequin which is a variety released commercially from the Hop Development Program Ben comments: “This was a standout for me in the first 5 of the series we ran They have all been very well received, all being so different, and customers gave some genuine feedback It created an excitement around the brews that we hadn’t really experienced before ”

From a hygiene perspective, Bank Top’s set up is a simple and traditional one, with open top fermenters not being the easiest of things to produce bacteriafree beer in Clearly sterility is the optimum goal and crucial in the brewing process as sweet wort (beer) is a dream environment for bugs to wreak havoc

“Keeping our yeast strain clean for repeat re-pitching generation after generation is probably the biggest concern that comes to mind as it’s our highest single infection risk transferring from one brew to another,” says Ben “We had some issues a while back and not getting sufficient support from our current supplier, reached out to Dave Huyton at Christeyns Food Hygiene. Dave was quick to return my call and insisted on coming down to see if he could identify the issue This was simply not something we could ignore, the difference in support was crucial to our

operations and after some discussion with the team here at the brewery, our next hygiene chemical order went to CFH and we haven’t looked back since ”

Sustainability is a big and ever-growing concern for breweries, and Ben is looking to implement solar panels on site later this year. The fact that CFH care about the impact of their products on the environment aligns with the brewery’s goals and driving to improve sustainability is a huge thing for the team

CFH trialled a new Keg Wash formula at Bank Top which the brewery now uses Only a third of the original formula is required yet it obtains better results

Ben explains: “The formula seems to be more active in cask, lifting residue better This is especially noticeable in some casks which have been out in trade and not seen for years These come back in some horrendous states To have fewer rejected casks after the cleaning cycle means less product and labour used in re-cleaning which leads to quite a saving over a year

“Our switch to Christeyns was seamless with Dave optimising our use of the chemicals allowing us to reduce in some areas and then this latest switch to the new Keg Wash has, as I said, allowed us to save 2/3 on the product usage Support with any questions has been second to none with queries answered swiftly and knowing that we can receive product quickly, when necessary, adds peace of mind ”

Lallemand introduces hybrid IPA strain

You can now create the perfect modern IPA with LalBrew Pomona™

LalBrew Pomona™ is a hybrid yeast that was selected for flavour and fermentation performance in hoppy beers Named after the goddess of fruit trees, LalBrew Pomona™ produces a unique and juicy flavour profile with notes of peach, citrus, and tropical fruits

This strain was developed by Lallemand partner Escarpment

Laboratories (Canada) using advanced yeast breeding and adaptive laboratory evolution in high ABV and highly hopped IPA fermentations

The result is a fruity, stress-tolerant, and robust strain that enhances biotransformation and haze for modern IPA styles

Attributes include:

• High biotransformation potential

• Unique flavour profile with notes of peach, citrus, and tropical fruits

• Selected for fermentation in high-gravity and highly hopped wort

• Hazepositive for stable haze

• Robust and repitchable

NEWS Industry News

Groundwork laid for Isle of Man’s new 1,000-litre brewery

Kemtile, a division of Stonhard, has delivered another “singlesource” brewery flooring solution, this time for Odin’s Manx Beer at its brand-new brewery on the Isle of Man.

As part of the brewer ’s ambitions to set up a new 1,000-litre facility with four fermenters, a grain store and a cold room, Odin’s Manx Beer required hygienic, hard-wearing and brewerycompliant flooring along with associated drainage The brewer approached Kemtile to complete the work after seeing the team’s superb results at another craft brewery

Kemtile carried out a thorough review of the site before starting the works and completed the entire job within the specified two-week period The first phase of the works saw Blucher stainless steel drainage installed on the site, whilst the second phase involved Kemtile installing the new Stonhard flooring system

To comply with good hygiene practices, Kemtile installed its own long-standing Co-Polymer screed to

form the all-important floor “falls”, ensuring there will be no standing water on the brewing and FV floors.

Following the installation of the CoPolymer, Stonclad UF was installed Stonclad UF is a single application, a high-performance polyurethane floor screed which has HACCP accreditation and a matching resin cove detail completed the installation Stonclad UF has good impact resistance Because of its polyurethane chemistry and specially blended hard-wearing aggregates, it provides good slip resistance along with excellent abrasion, thermal shock, thermal cycling and chemical resistance. These characteristics minimise the risk of deterioration from the beer and caustic solutions used extensively in the brewing industry

The solution is also hygienic and easy to clean due to its dense, waterproof, seamless surface These factors make it an ideal choice for the food and beverage industry

Rob Storey, Owner of Odin’s Manx Beer, stated: “We couldn’t be more

satisfied with Kemtile who provided us with a single-source service, delivering a robust flooring solution and drainage system

“Not only did the Kemtile team exceed our expectations with their expertise, but they also showed exceptional flexibility, accommodating our request for a logo into the Stonclad floor, which wasn’t initially planned but Kemtile willingly incorporated it within the works ”

Mike Sleight, Contracts Manager at Kemtile, who led the project, commented: “This project had its unique logistical challenges due to its location on the Isle of Man But our team led by the ever-reliable Ryan seamlessly completed the project, installing a durable flooring system that we are very proud of and the client loved ”

Days Brewing and Huboo toast refreshing partnership

Days Brewing, a leading alcoholfree beer brand, and eCommerce fulfilment provider, Huboo are celebrating one year of partnership, which has driven a remarkable 112% growth in sales. It’s a collaboration which has significantly enhanced Days Brewing's distribution capabilities across the UK.

The partnership, which leverages Huboo's innovative hub-based fulfilment model, has streamlined Days Brewing’s operations, ensuring timely and reliable delivery of popular beers to customers nationwide

Since partnering with Huboo, the business has more than doubled, which they attribute, in part, to the seamless fulfilment services Huboo has provided.

Founded in 2020, Days Brewing has rapidly established itself as a leader in

the alcohol-free beer market A business committed to revolutionising drinking culture with high-quality, inclusive, and enjoyable beer alternatives, its collaboration with Huboo represents a significant milestone in the company’s expansion efforts, aimed at supporting its substantial growth and increasing customer demand.

The alcohol free market is growing fast, with the IWSR reporting that the UK’s no or low-alcohol market is expected to grow by 7% year on year between 2022 and 2026 and that globally, consumption of low and no alcohol drinks will rise by a third by 2026

Since initiating the partnership, Days Brewing has also observed a marked improvement in fulfilment efficiencies with a customer satisfaction rating of 97 8%, contributing to enhanced customer satisfaction and increased

repeat business Huboo's expertise and guidance has also proved instrumental in resolving Days Brewing’s packaging challengesenabling the company to achieve the perfect balance between aesthetically pleasing and practical, secure packaging, ensuring that its beers arrive in perfect condition

Duncan Keith, co-founder of Days Brewing, commented on the partnership; "The collaboration with Huboo has significantly improved our distribution process, freeing up time for us to focus on product development and customer engagement This partnership has introduced a more streamlined logistics approach, which is crucial as it allows us to ensure swift and reliable delivery of our beers to our customers ”

NEWS Industry News

Croxsons make changes to management structure

Leading glass packaging company, Croxsons, has recently made changes to its management structure.

Tracey Kendall, formerly business development manager - export, has been appointed as the new warehouse & logistics manager, while Justin Giddings, previously the area sales manager covering the southeast, has taken on the new role of commercial manager.

Tracey, who has been an integral part of Croxsons for the past nine years, will now be responsible for overseeing the logistical operations within the UK Her new role includes managing stock, determining optimal stock levels and understanding client requirements to ensure efficient stock management The position reports directly to commercial director,

George O’Brien Tracey will still be taking and managing Export enquiries and accounts

With seven years of service at Croxsons, Justin (pictured right with Tracey) will be focusing on evaluating and improving the current supply chain to enhance cost efficiency and operational effectiveness, ensuring the company's long-term strategic goals are met

He will also be identifying new initiatives to drive business growth, while continuing his sales responsibilities in the southeast He will still report to sales director, Paul McGrane.

Croxsons CEO, Tim Croxson, commented on the appointments: “We have an incredible team and are proud of our track record of staff retention We are pleased that both

Tracey and Justin have committed to the Croxsons family and look forward to our continued growth ”

Croxsons is a trusted partner for both large and small brands worldwide, providing sustainable packaging solutions that empower food, drink, beauty and wellness brands to flourish

Goodness Brewing, NOMOQ, and London Craft Beer Festival

Goodness Brewing, in collaboration with NOMOQ and the London Craft Beer Festival, hosted an exclusive launch party to unveil its latest artist-led collaboration cans The event took place on Wednesday, July 31st, at Mother Kelly's in Bethnal Green, London.

This launch event was not just a celebration of innovative brewing and artistry but also a unique opportunity to recognise and support the talented artists who have been integral to this project Unlike traditional collaborations, the artists have been deeply involved in every step of the creative journey, from conception to final product, ensuring a truly immersive and collaborative experience.

effect achieved by means of encoding each eye's image using filters of different colours, typically red and cyan when a user wears special 3D glasses A truly unique artistry experience going above and beyond just ‘packaging’

The second artist, Benny Payne created the second edition and represented what is inside the can in a flavourful fresh innovative beer. Benny's signature fruit and bird motifs splashed across a gleaming mirrored surface incapsulated the beer ’s flavour as described to him by The Goodness head brewer Josh Billington

Artist Matt Martin (pictured) designed one edition of the can with the Goodness Brewery team using an anaglyph technique, which is a 3D

NOMOQ's cutting-edge technology has played a pivotal role in bringing these collaborative visions to life. Speaking about the designs, Konstantin Schwarzkopf, Head of Design at NOMOQ, commented: "Our mission is to empower brands and breweries to explore the full potential of NOMOQ’s technology Always for NOMOQ brands are the artists,

transforming the craft beer world into a more colourful and dynamic space.

“We offer more than just an alternative to labels; we provide a blank canvas for extraordinary brand opportunities We work closely with the artists to incorporate nearly all of our technological elements, including 3D and textured designs ”

Head of Brand at Goodness Brewery, Elaine Robertson, said: “Unlike the traditional model of commissioning an artist then taking them out of the product design stage, we wanted our artists involved and contributing at all stages, ensuring the final product is a true representation of their work

“NOMOQ worked alongside the artists and the creative team at The Goodness to take original art from 2D to 3D, keeping the texture and integrity of the mediums the work was created with NOMOQ's printed process pushes these cans beyond just function into a truly unique object to be kept and treasured long after the beer has been enjoyed ”

Then advertise your position on the UK’s first dedicated brewing jobs board. Brewing Jobs has already attracted more than 14,000 users to this free-to -use platform So contact us today at info@brewing-jobs.co.uk or visit www.brewing-jobs.co.uk

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News from the Brewing, Food & Beverage Industr y Suppliers Association

VOL 6 ISSUE 3 Autumn 2024

Andrew Jeans

BFBi National Chair

As we move into the latter half of the year, I am delighted to present another issue of Your Voice.

This year has been one of significant change and potential for our industry, marked notably by the recent election of a new Labour government This shift in the political landscape is poised to bring about changes that could deeply impact our sector, presenting both challenges and opportunities.

The new administration has already signalled a commitment to bolstering green initiatives and sustainability, which aligns with our industry's ongoing efforts to minimise environmental impact However, we must prepare for potential new regulations and shifts in policy regarding labour laws, taxation, and industry standards. It is essential that we stay agile and proactive, ready to adapt to these changes to continue thriving in this dynamic environment.

One of the core promises of the new government is an increased focus on local production and supporting small to medium enterprises. This could mean enhanced support for our independent breweries and food and beverage manufacturers, fostering innovation and growth within our community. At the same time, larger entities may need to navigate a landscape of increased scrutiny and potential policy shifts aimed at levelling the playing field.

Another critical area of focus will be the potential impact on our supply chains The Labour government’s stance on trade and tariffs could influence the cost and availability of raw materials It will be crucial for us to diversify our sourcing strategies and build more resilient supply chains to mitigate any disruptions

In these times of change, the role of the BFBi becomes even more vital We are committed to providing you with the latest insights, resources, and support to navigate these evolving circumstances Our collaborative efforts will be key in advocating for our industry's interests, ensuring that we have a seat at the table in discussions that shape our future.

Additionally, we are launching several new initiatives to support our members, including enhanced training programs focused on sustainability and efficiency, and a series of networking events designed to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing.

As always, our strength lies in our community By working together, we can transform challenges into opportunities, ensuring that our industry not only survives but thrives I encourage all of you to engage with our resources, participate in our events, and continue to innovate and adapt

Thank you for your unwavering dedication and passion Let us embrace the future with confidence and determination

Andrew Jeans

BFBi National Chairman and MD of Industrial Trading Solutions

Dräger becomes a proud member of BFBi network

Dräger, an international leader in medical and safety technologies, is now a proud member of the Brewing Food & Beverage Industry Suppliers’ Association (BFBi) group.

In addition to being a global leader in medical and safety technology products, Dräger’s award-winning safety solutions have been supporting partners in food and beverage processing for more than 130 years. A pioneer in gas detection and safety products, company founder Johann Heinrich Dräger invented the revolutionary pressure reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) Lubeca valve in 1889 to aid bartenders in pouring the perfect pint of beer

Dräger is also a proud supplier of a whole host of safety products for major international food and beverage industry customers, from respiratory protection, smart safety solutions, fixed and portable gas detection and drug and alcohol testing. This includes

innovative mobile gas detection solutions like the Dräger X-AM 5600 personal gas monitor and the X-Zone 5800 area monitor which have been critical in protecting workers from toxic, flammable, and explosive gases that result from standard food and beverage industry processes, such as modified atmosphere packaging

Becca Dodds, Marketing Manager for Mobile Gas Management with Dräger, says, “We are proud to be an official member of BFBi – a longstanding association devoted to supporting the nation’s brewers, food and beverage producers.

“At Dräger, we are firmly focused on safety and protecting workers in industrial settings – our goal is to ensure everyone goes home safely to their families. We are grateful for the opportunity to partner with over 2,800 UK businesses in the BFBi and share our expertise in safety technology to help support their operations

“As a global leader in gas detection

and respiratory protective equipment, Dräger can work with you to find the optimal solution for your food and beverage processing operation.”

Dräger manufactures medical and safety technology products. In so doing, it protects, supports, and saves people’s lives around the world in hospitals, with fire departments, emergency services, authorities, and in mining as well as industry

Founded in Lübeck in 1889, Dräger has grown into a worldwide, listed enterprise in its fifth generation as a family-run business. Dräger has more than 16,000 employees worldwide and is present in over 190 countries around the globe. In 2022, the company generated net sales of EUR 3 billion. Dräger technology is used all over the world. It operates in around 50 countries with its own sales and service companies directly on location where its customers are

Draeger.com

AP Connect welcomes new version of laborator y software

Anton Paar has introduced the latest version of AP Connect, a laboratory software that connects instruments from Anton Paar and other vendors, communicates measurement information, automates task execution and ensures compliance. Making research easier than ever before, the lab execution software is designed for straightforward operation with its plug and play capabilities.

All your lab data can be accessed at the click of a button: AP Connect provides vendor-independent digitisation of laboratory instrument data to guarantee a secure, centralised repository for all instrument data, thereby eliminating transcription errors.

Such safeguards also ensure absolute compliance to industry regulations such as 21 CFR Part 11 and EU Annex 11, providing a secure, traceable, and reliable laboratory data management system

What really marks AP Connect from the rest is its seamless integration of all connected instruments (regardless of vendor or type), which reduces the complexity of instrument integration into a leading information management system.

Interconnectivity is at the heart of AP Connect, resulting in increased laboratory efficiency due to the

time-saving, seamless start of measurements and generation of sample lists directly from an online PC. This feature of the standard version of AP Connect reduces manual intervention, increases productivity, and lowers operational costs

On top of all that, AP Connect is designed in such a way that minimises training and makes workflows intuitive to perform. In addition, it integrates seamlessly with Active Directory, allowing IT to centrally manage users and the centralised implementation of security policies.

info.uk@anton-paar.com

ECITB welcomes new regional Chair for the Midlands Regional Forum

Phil Colquhoun, Managing Director at NIRAS Lorien Engineering Solutions (UK) Ltd, has taken up the role of Council Member and Chair of the ECITB Midlands Regional Forum, following approval from the ECITB Board.

A keen advocate for investing in staff training and development, NIRAS Lorien Engineering Solutions has been a long-standing participant in the ECITB ACTIVE Cup project management competition and sends a team every year. Phil, himself, took part in the competition more than two decades ago.

Phil said: “I see the benefit of what the ECITB training levy can do. It locks in the budget for training and ensures training happens across engineering construction businesses.

“I’d like to see the ECITB grow its offer for companies right across the country and across all sectors We need to show smaller companies, particularly

in the food and beverage sector, how they benefit from the ECITB and its services across training, qualifications, engineering training grants, graduate development grants and its other excellent, industry-leading services

“We know investing in our NIRAS Lorien people helps with staff retention and we see training as a vital component in career development, raising the bar and keeping the business competitive My focus as incoming Chair of the Midlands Regional Forum is to talk with companies within the region, develop a dialogue around our existing ECITB services and identify opportunities to come together, share innovation and best practice. This is an exciting time for leading industry learning and I intend to drive from the front.”

Andrew Hockey, CEO of the ECITB, said: “The ECITB is industry-led. The link to industry - through our Board, Council and regional fora – is vital to ensure we fully understand the views, skills needs and priorities of our

employers

Our regional fora bring industry expertise to our work but also help us to forge better connections with client and contractor companies across the regions. Phil’s industry experience will be invaluable in identifying and addressing the skills needed of the workforce and driving our work forward in the region ”

Phil (pictured) has had a varied career, having worked in manufacturing and within an international engineering design & project management business serving the Food, Life Sciences and Beverage Industries specialising in capital projects. www.lorienengineering.com

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• Proven decarbonisation: Significantly reduce your brewery's carbon footprint with Hypro’s innovative technique

• High refrigeration energy: Tap into the high refrigeration energy of CO2, enhancing cooling efficiency.

• Negative CO2 emissions: Achieve a negative release of CO2 emissions, making it the most sustainable choice for breweries.

• Energy savings: Enjoy 30 to 40% energy savings, making operations more cost-effective and environmentally friendly

Efficient usage of energy for CO2 Liquefaction

The Hypro CO2 Condenser is engineered to be highly energyefficient, saving a substantial amount of refrigeration energy required for

CO2 liquefaction. This product is ideal for breweries aiming to reduce their environmental impact and operational costs.

Embrace Hypro's state-of-the-art products to not only optimise your brewing process but also to make a meaningful contribution to environmental conservation Invest in Hypro’s EnSa solutions and lead the way towards a greener, more sustainable brewing industry www.hypro.co.in

Importance of bespoke attachments

Flexible, made-to-order solutions have become more popular over the last few years. In the everevolving landscape of material handling, the rule one-size-fitsall isn’t always the case.

Customers are looking for solutions for greater functionality, higher load ratings, larger dimensions and methods of handling unusual loads

Northumberland-based B&B Attachments has a long history of assisting companies who require tailor-made handling solutions. Its investment in software and training, together with its top-of-the-range production machinery, allows B&B to design and manufacture bespoke handling solutions for all industries.

“Customisation is crucial for B&B to remain competitive and meet our customers’ requirements,” comments Mike Barton, Managing Director at B&B Attachments “We focus on specialised, custom-built attachments designed to fit our customers’ individual requirements Each application has unique challenges, B&B’s aim is to prioritise

understanding these challenges, then set about designing a product that will maximise our customer's efficiency, improve safe handling and provide a solution to the task at hand. These one-off attachments are manufactured entirely to our customer requirements.”

B&B Attachments also offers a complete line of standard attachments for all makes, models and capacities of forklifts Contact the team today to discover how the correct handling solution can improve your operations

sales@bandbattachments.com

Brewfitt’s 2Flow Coolant Range - Cooled to perfection!

Boasting class-leading performance, efficient & sustainability, the 2Flow Coolant Range from Brewfitt is the ideal solution for draught beer and cocktails, ranging from -2°C to -8°C.

Scan to download more information

KNOWLEDGE I

Reliability of CO2 from Biogas plants: Why it’s worth the risk of moving away from traditional sources

By Kirsty Donovan, Pro Gases UK

In recent years, the increasing concern over climate change and the need for sustainable energy sources has driven the exploration of alternative energy options. Biogas, a renewable energy source derived from organic waste, has gained attention due to its ability to generate electricity and heat.

A by-product of biogas production is carbon dioxide (CO2), which has become an essential resource for various industries. This blog aims to shed light on the reliability of CO2 production from biogas plants and why it is worth the risk for businesses to transition from traditional CO2 sources.

Reliability of CO2 From Biogas Plants:

One significant advantage of CO2 production from biogas plants is its reliability throughout the year and its renewable energy source Traditional CO2 sources, such as burning of fossil fuels, contribute to harmful greenhouse gas emissions and the depletion of finite resources. This outdated source of CO2 is susceptible to regular shortages and CO2 price increases. In contrast, biogas production from organic waste is continuously generated, meaning the source of biogas is practically infinite and ensures the availability of CO2 all year round. This abundant, sustainable, and uninterrupted supply is crucial for numerous industries and businesses that heavily rely on CO2 for their operations

Essential for Businesses:

Food and Beverage Industry: The food and beverage industry heavily relies on CO2 for carbonating beverages, preserving food products, and preventing spoilage. The reliable supply of CO2 from biogas plants ensures that businesses in this sector can meet consumer demands consistently By reducing dependence on traditional CO2 sources, companies can contribute to a more sustainable future while ensuring minimal disruption in their production processes

Greenhouse Farming: CO2 is an essential component in greenhouse farming as it enhances the growth of plants and improves crop yields. By

utilising CO2 produced from biogas plants, greenhouse farmers can enjoy a year-round, reliable supply This reliability not only aids in maintaining consistent crop growth but also helps reduce the environmental impact associated with conventional CO2 sources.

Medical and Pharmaceutical

Applications: The medical and pharmaceutical industries rely on CO2 for various applications, including anaesthesia, cooling, and as a solvent These sectors demand a reliable and pure source of CO2, making biogas plants an attractive and sustainable option. The consistency in CO2 supply ensures uninterrupted medical procedures and high-quality pharmaceutical products without the risk of shortages or production disruptions.

Environmental Benefits:

Moving away from traditional sources of CO2 is not only worthwhile due to its reliability but also because of the numerous environmental benefits Biogas plants reduce carbon emissions by capturing and utilising methane, a potent greenhouse gas. By leveraging this renewable energy source and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, businesses can significantly contribute to mitigating climate change. Additionally, the use of biogas plants as a source of CO2 reduces the reliance on carbon-intensive industries and promotes a more sustainable approach

In conclusion, the reliability of CO2 production from biogas plants is a convincing argument for businesses to consider the transition from traditional CO2 sources. The year-round availability of CO2, with limited shutdowns, provides a stable supply essential for industries relying on this resource. The food and beverage industry, greenhouse farming, and medical and pharmaceutical applications can benefit greatly from this consistent supply Moreover, the environmental advantages associated with biogas plants, including reduced carbon emissions and sustainable energy generation, make it a valuable investment towards a more sustainable future The decision to embrace biogas

as a reliable CO2 source may involve some risks, but the potential benefits make it a risk worth taking. www.progasesuk.com

9 Questions to Ask Your Heat E xchanger Supplier

By Matt Hale, Global Key Account Director, HRS Heat Exchangers

Heat exchangers are commonly used for a wide range of purposes in the food industry. With a comprehensive range of types and designs available from numerous manufacturers, choosing the right solution, from the right supplier, can seem daunting. Here are nine key questions to ask any potential heat exchanger supplier… Scan to download

Mobile Event Remote Cooler from Booth Dispensers

Thirsty for success? Want to leave a lasting impression at your events? Unleash the power of the Booth Mobile Event Remote Cooler, here to revolutionise portable dispense!

Featuring our most potent cooling system to date, we ensure your beverages stay at that perfect crisp temperature even when your event is heating up. Utilising our plug-and-play event easy taps, capable of dispensing an incredible 10 pints per minute. Set up and serve your ice-cold beverages with ease, wherever your event takes you.

Unlike traditional stationary bars, our remote can be easily moved to different locations within a venue This flexibility is particularly beneficial for large events such as festivals, weddings, and beer gardens, where the flow of guests can shift throughout the event. With the option to move your bar, organisers can ensure optimal service coverage and

reduce wait times for customers.

The mobile event remote offers the ability to showcase your brand's identity and stand out With completely customisable artwork you can feature eye-catching visuals guaranteed to draw in customers, and seamlessly integrate your unique style with your brand's flavour.

Revolutionising Beverage Quality:

How Creature Comforts found comfort with Konvoy Cloud

Konvoy, a leader in keg rental, has introduced IoT Keg Tracking Technology to address challenges related to product quality, lost assets and asset efficiency. Scan to download

The mobile event remote ensures that your brands image remains consistent and resonates with your audience

customerservice@ booth-dispensers.co.uk

BoxWay Packaging converts customer to cleverly designed plastic- free packaging

BoxWay Packaging Group, the innovative, customer-focussed, design-led corrugated cardboard packaging business, has utilised its high-tech in-house design capabilities to design clever packaging, which has eliminated the use of plastic for online retailer, Ashridge Nurseries.

BoxWay Packaging Group Limited has been working closely with Somersetbased Ashridge Nurseries in the pursuit of newly designed cardboard boxes for its herbaceous plants, in place of preformed plastic packs to protect the P9 herbaceous pots during transit to its customers across the UK.

The BoxWay Packaging design team in Exeter devised the clever cardboard structure by employing an integral flap in a die-cut version of an 0427 box, which ensures rigidity, strength and a sustainable choice for the new cardboard boxes, keeping the pots

securely in situ and giving the option of additional space for a variety of plant lengths.

Rodney Marsh, Ashridge Nurseries’ fulfilment manager, comments: “I am absolutely delighted with the fantastic solution BoxWay’s excellent, Exeterbased in-house structural design team have devised for us. This clever cardboard box is not only a key ecological development for us as a business to reduce our carbon footprint and offer our online customers a recyclable, eco-friendly packaging solution, but it also contributes to our considerable efforts to completely remove plastic from our whole supply chain Becoming a plastic-free retailer is a major accomplishment for Ashridge Nurseries. We are looking forward to rolling out more cardboard solutions for additional plant lines we sell online to customers across the UK.”

Tom Fooks, New Business Manager for

BoxWay Exeter, comments: “It was a pleasure to work with Rodney and the Ashridge Nurseries team on this innovative project to devise a concept for a new herbaceous plant cardboard packaging solution that eliminates plastic, and I am thrilled with the result of the new eco-friendly, sustainable structured boxes I very much look forward to further developing Ashridge Nurseries’ complete range of corrugated solutions, which complements this original design BoxWay Packaging has created.”

www.boxwaygroup.com

Graphic Packaging partners with Morrisons to redefine sustainable meat packaging

Graphic Packaging International (Graphic Packaging), a global leader in sustainable consumer packaging, has partnered with UK supermarket giant Morrisons to revolutionise the packaging for its private label steak portfolio with a first-to-market, photographic print pressed board tray.

One of four recyclable cartonboard tray solutions to be introduced by the retailer for its premium, core, and entry-level steak lines, the move will eliminate 250 tonnes of plastic per year from its supply chain The premium trays are the first on the market to incorporate Graphic Packaging’s advanced photo-quality print technology on the face of the tray, marking a significant evolution of its pressed board tray portfolio and creating unique branding opportunities for the retailer.

The core range is produced with unbleached cartonboard, creating a kraft look, while the entry-level ‘Savers’ range is produced with bleached cartonboard, providing clear aesthetic differentiation between the ranges

The pressed trays are vacuum sealed, offering equivalent shelf-life to plastic, and run on packer Morrisons Manufacturing’s existing equipment with no investment required.

Lauren Hutchinson, new business sales director, trays & cups at Graphic Packaging, commented on the launch, saying, “We are delighted for the Morrisons team. Thanks to their passion, collaborative spirit, and commitment, the adoption of our latest tray innovation allows them to not only further their progress toward their plastic reduction goals but also take advantage of the unique branding opportunities presented by our new print technology

“This commercialisation is the result of close collaboration between the Morrisons team and three of our sites – Winsford in the UK, and Lund and Tibro in Sweden. We combined the strength of our global network with a clear focus on local customer service to deliver tailored innovations that delivered packaging excellence to Morrisons and their consumers ”

Dan Barnes, procurement manager at Morrisons, added, “We know British

shoppers look for packaging that helps them reduce their plastic consumption while also providing quality and value in their purchases, and we ’ re committed to delivering on these priorities Our partnership with Graphic Packaging is a great one, as we worked towards our shared goal of delivering innovative, easily recyclable, cartonboard packaging that meets the needs of our consumers ”

The pressed board vacuum skin (VSP) trays are ideal for a wide range of fresh food applications, including deli meats, cheeses, fish, and more

The addition of photo-quality print that can cover the full face of the tray - plus four-colour print capability on the back of the tray - unlocks nearunlimited branding opportunities www.graphicpkg.com.

A magical makeover of Welsh brewer Tomos Watkin

The new owners of Welsh brewing icon Tomos Watkin have unveiled a new brand identity after enlisting the services of the brewing industry’s design specialists, LemonTop Creative.

Inspired by the magical tales of dragons and wizards that echo through the wild Welsh valleys, the brand makeover produced by LemonTop Creative has given Tomos Watkin a fresh, new look to start the next chapter in its life.

Founded in 1996, the Tomos Watkin brand has been rejuvenated after brewers Joelle and Sarah Drummond, who also set up Drop Bear Beer Co in 2019, bought the brewery in August 2023

The enchanting Welsh valleys and their mystical stories of dragons and sorcerers served as a source of inspiration for the fresh brand identity that LemonTop’s talented team created for the brewery. The new owners of the brewery wanted to captivate the modern-day beer drinkers while also commemorating its legacy, so they allowed the

brewing industry’s design specialists to let their creative spirits wander as they created a magical makeover of the brand. The relaunched brand not only celebrates the brand's heritage, but also creates a path forward to an exciting future for Tomos Watkin as a leading light in the Welsh brewing industry

Director of sales and marketing for Tomos Watkin, Joelle Drummond, worked closely with LemonTop’s creative team on the new brand identity Having grown up in Swansea, Joelle was already familiar with Tomos Watkin Brewery and wanted to further develop the essence of the brand’s history. She worked with LemonTop on the branding and promotion of Drop Bear Brewing, so she knew the agency would be able to help her start a new chapter with Tomos Watkin.

the famous Welsh red dragon. Using the dragon as a unifying character created a link for the full range of label designs, pump clips and packaging. The brand also incorporated ‘easter egg ’ elements swapping from one to the other, creating a continuous and captivating theme

LemonTop used their illustrative skills and let their imaginations run free as they created a brand with an imaginative and magical vibe, featuring wizards, farmers, miners, and cockle pickers, all tied together by

Tomos Watkin Brewery was excited to unveil the new brand identity that beautifully encapsulates the essence of Wales The refreshed visual identity features stunning imagery that perfectly represents the unique spirit of each beer and the emotions it evokes.

www.lemontopcreative.co.uk

Disinfection monitoring and control for food and drink

Accurately controlling a dose of sterilant to clean pipework in the food and drink industry is vital to the taste, quality, safety and life of the food or drink being produced, along with the health and wellbeing of the consumer.

The ATi Q Series monitors, by Badger Meter, form part of the BlueEdge suite of scalable solutions and offer a range of measurement and control solutions for sterilisation applications within the food and beverage industry

As with any disinfection system, maintaining reliable residual values is the key to effective pathogen control. To facilitate consistent chemical feed control, the ATI Q46/84 hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and Q46/85 peracetic acid (PAA) monitors by Badger Meter respond rapidly to changes in concentration, enabling operators to monitor and control chemical feed to maintain specific targets

Historically, the cleaning time of the pipework was more time-consuming due to the lack of reliable monitoring equipment The longer the cleaning process, the more expense incurred due to higher chemical usage and increasing ‘down time’. However, Cleaning-in-Place (CIP) is now a widely used method of cleaning process equipment in the food and drink industry, usually applied daily depending on the production technique and industry. This ensures a consistently high product quality, efficient heat transfer in heat exchangers and reduces the risk of

micro-organisms growth.

Sterilants such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and peracetic acid (PAA) are used to clean the equipment, using a strength of around 250350 PPM and stored in large vessels.

Once the solution is used, more is made and the vessels are topped up. During the process of ‘topping up ’ it has frequently proven difficult to maintain the correct level of chemical strength after multiple uses on site Colorimetric titration has often been the only method used due to issues with continuous dosing to a set-point (PID control) The risk of not reaching the correct level of PAA or (H2O2) could result in the ‘dumping’ of product and then a deep clean, meaning high cost and low output due to down time.

After years of successful monitoring and controlling of PAA and (H2O2) at several leading food and drink ‘manufacturers and dairy companies in the UK, the specialist Q Series monitors have proven to be innovative and effective tools that improve efficiency and cost effectiveness on site After a recent six-month trial of the Q46/85 at a leading food and drink company, the data showed that the sensor required no calibration or maintenance, which is

The Q46/85 uses electro-chemical sensing technology to control a ‘ continuous dose of peracetic acid during CIP while the Q46/84 hydrogen peroxide monitor is designed to continuously measure the concentration of H2O2 in aqueous systems. The sensors used in both solutions can be connected via analogue output or PID control to a dosing pump for continuous monitoring and control to a specific set-point. With a range of digital communication protocols such as Profibus and Modbus available, each system can be tailor made to create a bespoke monitoring solution individual to each customer and application

For further information on its leadingedge range of water quality, sterilisation and gas detection solutions suitable for food and beverage applications, visit the Badger Meter product website.

www.badgermeter.com

i-Keg launches its innovative polymer casks and kegs

i-Keg has announced the availability from September 2024 onwards of its much-awaited innovative range of polymer kegs and casks.

After many months of finalising modifications based on feedback from potential customers, the equipment tooling has been completed and en route!

UK-based factories are ready to start manufacturing on arrival, producing 9g casks and 30l kegs, to be followed by a 4 5g pin & 20 and 50l kegs

Potential benefits of the range include:

• Polymer kegs and casks NOT being stolen for scrap value or used as bbq’s, firepits, urinals etc!

• They are also lighter, quieter, stackable, easy to handle, hard wearing plus clean, fill and dispense just like steels!

With optional revolutionary IoT devices “internally fitted” at manufacture, you can be sure not to lose your stock plus have access to essential data to increase your profits. All will be on display at The Brewers

Congress September 23rd / 24th in London sales@i-keg.com

typical of the Q Series range of sensors.

Our world of sustainability –zero carbon furnace

Decarbonising glass packaging will be a key part of the UK government’s commitment to reach net zero by 2050. We recognise that glass manufacturing is an energy intensive process but the future is looking clean – electricity, hydrogen and beyond.

Where existing furnaces traditionally use natural gas, we can already produce in furnaces utilising 100% electricity as the primary energy for melting, but we want to see this ability brought to the large scale production required by many of our customers Plans are already developed and in-process to produce in furnaces powered by 100% renewable electricity, as well as furnaces utilising hydrogen

Having already trialled alternative fuels such as 100% biogas, we have delivered bottles with an estimated

99% reduction in carbon footprint, but with the same benchmarks for quality and performance

As a fully recyclable product, with minimal impact to the environment once made, glass has a bright future We are confident in the plans for and to help deliver ultra-low or no carbon solutions for our customers.

Isle of Barra Distillers enhances production with advanced bottling line

Isle of Barra Distillers, under the leadership of Managing Director Michael Morrison, has recently upgraded its bottling operations with a state-of-the-art machine capable of washing, filling, capping, and labeling spirits like whisky, rum, vodka, and gin.

The distillery has taken a significant leap from manual processes to advanced automation with the installation of a rotary Rinser/Filler/Corker triblock in a 9/10/1 configuration, complete with sophisticated loading and unloading tables.

ABOVE: IC Filling Systems Rinser/Filler/Capper in situ at Isle of Barra

Capacity Boost

The new spirits packaging line dramatically increases efficiency,

enabling the automatic filling of up to 1,500 bottles per hour with just two operators. This enhancement not only meets the current high demand for Isle of Barra Distillers' products in Scotland, the UK, and abroad but also sets the stage for future growth

Strategic Design and Installation

Despite space limitations at the existing bottling site, IC Filling Systems successfully designed a production layout tailored to the distillery's specific needs The precision in planning was highlighted during the delivery of the main bottling triblock, which was navigated through a doorway with a mere 10mm clearance!

Community and Expansion

Looking forward, Isle of Barra Distillers is actively raising funds for a new £8m Whisky & Gin Distillery and Visitor Centre, aiming for a production capacity of 200,000 litres of pure alcohol annually.

This initiative will not only generate significant employment creating at least 40 jobs on the island but also

Lallemand releases ‘yeast for modern, hop- for ward beers’

Lallemand Brewing has announced the upcoming release of its latest innovation LalBrew Pomona™ Modern Hybrid IPA Yeast.

LalBrew Pomona™ is a hybrid yeast that was selected for flavour and fermentation performance in hoppy beers.

Named after the goddess of fruit trees, LalBrew Pomona™ produces a unique and juicy flavour profile with notes of peach, citrus, and tropical fruits. This strain was developed by Lallemand partner Escarpment Laboratories, an innovative Canadian yeast company and industry leader in solution-based yeast selection and hybridisation

"We used yeast breeding to cross a highly aromatic strain with a super robust and reliable strain,” said Richard Priess, Co-founder of Escarpment Laboratories.

“Then we used a process called adaptive lab evolution to adapt it to the unique fermentation conditions of IPAs, enhancing biotransformation and haze.”

The result of this research and selection is a fruity, stress-tolerant, and robust strain that enhances biotransformation and haze for modern IPA styles This product will be initially be available in 500g and then 11g sachets in the coming months.

Since their introduction into the craft market around 2003, hazy IPAs have firmly cemented themselves as a pervasively popular and highly demanded style in the brewing universe

With its carefully selected flavour profile, LalBrew Pomona™ answers the market’s ever-present demand from brewers chasing the divine balance of

boost tourism within the Outer Hebrides and beyond.

Giving Back to Barra

In addition to their expansion plans, founders Michael and Katie Morrison have established the Isle of Barra Whisky Distillers Foundation The foundation pledges to donate 1% of net profits back to the local community

Furthermore, by the time its 10-year-old Malt Whisky is released, the aim is to have constructed six affordable homes for the Foundation to sell at cost to young families, addressing the critical housing shortage on the Island of Barra.

www.icfillingsystems.com

Commercial trials have received rave reviews, and we anticipate this to be one of our most beloved strains for many years to come.

www.lallemand.com

fruit and hop flavours

Utopian Brewing emulates West Coast pale ale using only British ingredients

Utopian Brewing, based in Devon, has launched its first West Coast style pale ale, made with 100% British ingredients.

The 4.4% ABV brew, named Wondrous Isles, has been positioned as a “modern pale ale” and follows the brewery having already released limited ranges in cask before now deciding to extend availability into keg and can format

Speaking to the magazine ‘drinks business’, Utopian Brewing head brewer Jeremy Swainson, said: “We brewed the first iteration of this beer in cask over two years ago with the goal of making a standout modern pale ale using hops from the Charles Faram breeding programme. ”

Responding to queries over how challenging it was to create the beer using only British hops and malts, Swainson admitted that “due to the nature of cask ale, making a West

Coast style pale – biscuity malt, complex hop aroma, firm bitterness, bright – was an obvious choice” because “hops like Godiva, Olicana, and especially Harlequin, are packed with dank pine and complex fruit notes, which suit the style perfectly ”

Pleased that he persevered, Swainson pointed out that a benefit of “using only British hops makes ‘Wondrous Isles’ genuinely unique” and told the magazine, “It reduces our food miles, and supports our growers. ”

Utopian Brewing founder Richard Archer added: “We have stuck rigidly to our core values of natural brewing, using traditional techniques and zero additives, with only 100% British grown ingredients ”

The launch of Wondrous Isles was timed with the start of the Euros which also coincided with Utopian Brewing announcing a series of promotions and social media

competitions throughout the tournament in a bid to wish both teams from our ‘Wondrous Isles’ the very best of fortunes.

The beer was previously only released at music festivals but is also now available to all pubs, bars and restaurants in both 30 litre kegs and 440ml cans.

The beers can also be bought via Utopian’s webshop.

charlesfaram.com

5 reasons your eCommerce packaging isn’t hitting the spot with consumers

First impressions count, no matter the size of the package! In fact, nearly half of UK shoppers say packaging plays a big role in their unboxing experience (Internet Retailing).

At Saxon Packaging (part of the Smurfit Kappa Group), we're all about helping brands and businesses shine online, and we ’ re dedicated to helping you deliver ‘out of this world’ unboxing experiences As your go-to packaging pros, we use market insights to craft custom, planet-friendly and costeffective packaging solutions that hit the sweet spot of consumer wants and needs

We’ve scoured the latest eCommerce packaging trends, and discovered five reasons why your packaging isn’t hitting the spot with consumer expectations

1. You’ve overcomplicated the design Your packaging needs to wow your target market, but it won’t if it’s too complicated A whopping 32% of consumers say that clear, consistent messaging is a must (Forbes), and 72% say packaging influences their buying decisions (Ipsos) This shows just how important it is to have packaging that speaks to your target audience

We’ve all heard ‘less is more ’ , and many eCommerce brands are loving the trend of minimalistic packaging By focusing on simple yet striking designs - which includes using fewer materials, embracing reusable packaging, and optimising package shape - brands can cut waste and shipping costs Plus, you can showcase your brand with custom logos and colours without compromising on quality Keep it sleek and keep your customers coming back for more

2.It’s lacking the personal touches

Did you know that 62% of unboxing video viewers are eyeing up the product because they plan to buy it (Internet Retailing)? That’s how crucial the unboxing experience is When done well, it can be enough to encourage consumers to share their experience on social media and with friends

Considering 87% of people use social platforms to make shopping decisions and 55% of smartphone shoppers purchase a product after seeing it on social media (Modern Retail), your packaging has to impress

Personalised packaging is where the magic happens When someone receives a unique, customised package, they’re

more likely to share it, building brand loyalty and boosting visibility Without personalisation, your product might just blend in But with today’s tech advancements, brands can offer custom packaging that truly stands out This is perfect for new businesses looking to make a name for themselves in the market, but also for established brands wanting to boost their recognition and awareness After all, 74 7% of consumers are more likely to make a repeat purchase from brands that feel more personal (IMRG)

3. It’s not ‘smart’ enough to interact with tech-savvy shoppers

Over half of brands consider smart packaging as key to educating customers (Packaging News), but many still miss the mark of meeting consumer expectations Smart packaging can make a huge difference to the customer experience by offering valuable information like product care tips or instructions in a fun and seamless way

As technology continues to evolve, so does eCommerce packaging Brands are increasingly using Augmented Reality, QR codes and NFC tags for easy tracking, better customer engagement and product authentication This is something that consumers have come to expect, with 86% approving of brands using artificial intelligence in 2023 (Forbes) Technology is making packaging smarter, more informative, and convenient for customers

4. Consumers find it difficult to open or return

Today’s shoppers are receiving more packages than ever, with a staggering 3 6 billion parcels shipped in the UK in 2023 (Statista) With so many parcels to handle – and some needing to be returned - consumers are all about convenience and hassle-free packaging That’s why many savvy businesses are switching to easy-to-open, resealable, and easy-to-return packaging to amp up customer satisfaction

Why does this matter? Difficult-to-open packaging can be a real pain, sometimes literally! Consumers often resort to sharp items to open stubborn packages,

risking injury and potential damage to the product Also, ensuring that packaging is accessible is an important part of making sure a brand is inclusive to all

In our fast-paced world, it's not enough to just have a good returns policy - you need to embrace easy-to-return packaging as it’s becoming a must for modern consumers who crave convenience With 60% of consumers prioritising a smooth shopping experience (American Express), making returns effortless helps to build loyalty and encourages repeat purchases

5. You’re lacking a sustainability focus Environmental responsibility is a hot topic for customers, with 52% prioritising sustainability and 42% of drinks consumers ranking recyclability as their top concern (Bacardi) To put it simply, people are actively choosing responsible brands who are transparent about their commitment to a better planet To align with consumers ’ expectations, businesses need to demonstrate what they are doing to tackle their impact on the environment In fact, 75% of consumers prefer brands that offer green or sustainable products, and 49% of shoppers said they would pay more for sustainable packaging and delivery (Deloitte)

Beyond benefitting the planet, packaging has become a powerful physical touchpoint for brands to communicate their social responsibility With 40% of consumers looking for businesses that show authenticity (GWI), brands are now using packaging to highlight their commitment to the environment and social causes Whether it’s about going green, supporting communities, or improving working conditions, companies are putting their values front and centre of their packaging to show they care about making a difference

Room for improvement?

Is your eCommerce packaging missing the mark? It’s time to level up – and we ’ re here to make it happen! At Saxon Packaging, we know what consumers want and can craft packaging that not only protects your products but also champions sustainability Plus, we'll make your brand shine with an unforgettable unboxing experience Let us review your current packaging and discover the perfect solution to any challenges you're facing Get in touch with us today

smurfitkappa.com

Don’t pay too much for gas detection!

Here’s the bad news. You’re probably paying too much for gas detection. Now for the good news. You don’t have to.

What if we could offer you ultimate protection with the most advanced and effective gas detection products on the market, for a fraction of the cost? International Gas Detectors is the world’s oldest gas detection company We’re the inventors of the first flammable gas detector, the innovators of modern gas detection and the industry’s most trusted resource on the world of gas safety.

More than a century spent pushing the boundaries of gas detection technology has equipped us with unparalleled industry knowledge, and a huge range of advanced addressable gas detection solutions, designed, manufactured and tested in-house in the UK But how can we offer all of this for a fraction of the cost of the competition?

2-Wire Addressable Gas Detection.

The Future of Gas Detection. Now. Everyone else uses at least 4 cables to run their systems; by doing a better job with just 2 we can offer ultimate

protection for up to 70% less. 2-Wire Addressable technology is power and communications on a single 2-core cable Simple, swift, safe:

• Slash installation costs by up to 70% by eliminating all unnecessary wiring.

• Interconnect multiple detectors via a single cable, and link additional accessories directly from the nearest detector

• Our Sentinel+ TM software accommodates built-in Wi-Fi, cloudbased data acquisition, SMS & email alerts, and remote access for maintenance and data log downloads

• Our polarity-independent cables handle power and comms making installation and maintenance easy.

• Integrate our products into an existing system, or repurpose your current wiring, to further reduce installation costs

• Advanced digital communication tells you exactly which detector is at which alarm level Detailed fault reports and full sensor diagnostics provide an additional level of security and control

Flexible, Scalable Solutions for Every Industry

With long-life sensors for over 700

gases and vapours our modular systems were designed to meet the needs of any application, regardless of size or complexity. Our range of control panels come with 1-click auto setup to automatically program all alarm levels, and the ability to link with up to 350 devices in series across a 1km distance, providing bespoke scalable solutions for any space from a small boiler room to an entire hospital

Total Peace of Mind

Designing and manufacturing all our products in-house puts us in control of the entire process. That’s why we can provide a 10-year guarantee on all electronics, giving you peace of mind in the knowledge that you ’ re protected and backed by IGD’s reputation for excellence.

www.internationalgasdetectors.com

Brewing Food & Beverage Industry Suppliers’ Association

11 Side Strand • Pendeford Place

Pendeford Business Park

Wolverhampton WV9 5HD

Chief Executive: Ruth Evans MBE

Tel: +44 (0)1902 422303

Fax: +44 (0)1902 795744

Email: info@bfbi org uk

Website: www bfbi org uk

OVER 100 YEARS SERVICE TO THE BREWING, FOOD & BEVERAGE INDUSTRY

Limited Company by Guarantee Company Registration Number 11760186

BFBi represents the supply chain into the beverage industr y with Full Members ranging from barley and hop merchants through to process engineers, packaging, point of sale, etc

Manufacturers, including brewers/distillers, may join as Associate Members.

As a “traditional” industr y (in its best sense), where relationships between supplier and customer are recognised as adding value and ensuring sustainability, BFBi is well known as a facilitator of social and professional networking events

Forthcoming events

SEPTEMBER

Thursday 5th Tour of Somerset Cider Solutions

Tuesday 10th Cellar2Seller Seminar - Loughborough Conference Centre

Tuesday 17th Tour of Chapel Down & Disgourging Facility, Kent

Wednesday 18th London Section Committee Meeting & AGM - Tour of Renegade Brewery - Berkshire

Thursday 26th Midland Section Golf Day - Branston Golf Club

OCTOBER

Tuesday 15th Nijhuis Webinar - How to reduce carbon & recover renewable biogas / energy from your industrial effluent – Highrate Anaerobic digestion - what? Why? how?

Thursday 17th Northern Section Bowling - Roxy Ballroom, Manchester (4 00pm)

Tuesday 22nd Midland Section Tour & Lunch - House Of Lords

Thursday 24th Nottingham University - Brewing Apprenticeship Graduation Day - Nottingham

Friday 25th Western Section Seminar & Lunch - Queens Hotel, Cheltenham

NOVEMBER

Thursday 7th Midland Birmingham Balti - The Indian Brewing Company, Birmingham

Tuesday 12th Tour of Round Corner Brewing - Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire

Tuesday 26th - Thursday 28th Brau Beviale - Nuremburg, Germany

DECEMBER

Wednesday 4th AEB Webinar - Yeast nutrition to enhance beer aroma-active compounds