Expanded Wiri factory will produce 600 million aluminium cans every year

Amcor Australasia, New Zealand’s leading beverage can manufacturer for more than two decades, has invested a further $40 million in its South Auckland plant to double production and bring new capability to the local beverage market.

Officially launched today to dignitaries and industry representatives, the new line in boasts leading-edge, global technology.

The Wiri site currently produces around 300 million aluminium cans a year, accounting for around 70 per cent of New Zealand’s beverage can production, and employs 77 co-workers. Production capacity is expected to double when the new line becomes fully operational, which may lead to additional local employment opportunities over time.

The installation of this new line gives New Zealand beverage producers access to leading, innovative beverage can technologies not previously available in the country. These include an 8 colour print process, increased embossing capabilities and the addition of the 500ml can size to the range.

Nigel Garrard, Managing Director of Amcor Australasia & Packaging Distribution, said it was important to bring this additional capability to New Zealand’s energy drink, soft drink, ready to drink (RTD) and beer markets.

“Investment in innovation is critical to achieving the productivity improvements that our sector needs. Delivering world-competitive capabilities, more efficiently, to our New Zealand beverage customers will help them continue to drive innovation and stay ahead of their local and global competitors,” he added.