Fourpure Brewing invests £2.5m in kegging and canning line

The brewer’s investment includes a new automated kegging line, as well as an upgrade of its existing canning line.

Fourpure’s upgraded kegging system incorporates ‘advanced’ cleaning equipment that sterilises kegs using pressurised steam at 130°C. Not often seen in craft breweries, the brewer claimed the new kegging system would increase production and improve flavour retention in kegs.

It hoped the system would greatly benefit its low and no alcohol beers, where the self-protection that alcohol normally provides is much reduced and would allow for greater experimentation in this space.

Increase speed and flexibility ​

The new optimised canning line is designed to increase speed and performance, providing more flexibility for in-line labelling of cans.

Frank Markham, supply chain director at Fourpure, commented: “We’ve always had a canning line but previously it was a little like a racehorse on a greyhound track … this latest suite of updates makes us Ascot-ready. ​

“The new, completely bespoke designed kegging and canning facilities will form a crucial part of our continued expansion and future success. The demand for our canned beer has doubled since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the improved facilities mean we can fulfil this increase in sales, while still meeting world-class hygiene and safety standards.”​

Fourpure took on new units on the industrial site in Bermondsey where it is based in order to facilitate the upgrade, allowing the creation of a purpose-built packaging area.

Hygiene and safety first​

The new space has been outfitted to custom specifications, including an easy-clean set up, customised hygienic flooring and specially designed layout.

Markham added: “Carrying out this update in current times has obviously brought its own challenges and I am incredibly proud of the excellent safety standards our team met throughout.​

“We were also really happy to be able to support a number of contractors during this process, many of them smaller businesses and many brewing specific.”​

Meanwhile, plant-based meat alternative manufacturer Jack & Bry has raised £1.25m through seed funding​​ to support investment into product innovation.