PepsiCo invests $13m in soft drinks line in Romania

PepsiCo is investing $13 million to install a modern, fully automated production line at its soft drink factory in Dragomiresti, Romania, https://www.foodbev.com/ informs.   The production line, described as “the most automated in PepsiCo’s portfolio in Europe,” is able to produce approximately 1 million bottles per day. It achieves a 30% reduction in energy consumption compared to conventional lines and increases energy efficiency by 30% per litre produced.   Additionally, the new line produces 60% more beverages per unit of time, lowers CO2 emissions by 20% and reduces water consumption by 30% per litre of beverage produced. Simultaneously, it contributes to a decrease in the annual amount of plastic used by about 30 tons. The production line features advanced technologies, offering a high level of automation. It seamlessly integrates into the automated warehouse flow, employing robot guidance for pallet handling and storage. This ensures a fully automated process from bottling to truck loading, eliminating the need for human intervention.  Most tasks associated with glass format changes, including mold adjustments, are also automated, “contributing to enhanced efficiency in the production process,” said the company.   PepsiCo explained that the investment is an important element of its five-year development plan for the Dragomiresti soft drink factory, contributing to a total investment of $40 million.   The initiative aims to improve production lines, increasing production capacity to over 800 million litres per year. It also involves the construction of a fully automated warehouse spanning 15,000 square metres, valued at $15 million.   Radu Berevoescu, GM and senior commercial director of East Balkans at PepsiCo, said: “The investment in automation reflects our commitment to innovation, sustainability and efficiency. The new line can produce approximately 1 million bottles per day, simultaneously consuming 30% less energy than a conventional line.”   “The high level of automation allows our employees to focus on improving processes, professional and personal development, as well as the continuous simplification of operations. Thus, this investment will help us strengthen our position as a regional production and distribution hub for Central and South-Eastern Europe.”