Ball Corporation begins to construct UK’s largest aluminium can production facility in Kettering

Ball Corporation, a leading US-based can producer, has begun constructing the UK’s largest aluminium can production facility in Kettering in response to the increased demand for cans as an alternative to plastic.

The company reported the plant is set for completion in January 2023, aiming at meeting accelerating demand for infinitely recyclable aluminium drink cans.

The plant will be built across 56,000 square metres, with space to expand production capacity later. In the first year, the facility will produce over one billion fully-recyclable cans, generating 200 local jobs.

Carey Causey, Ball Beverage Packaging Europe, Middle East, Africa and Asia (EMEA) president, said: “As environmental awareness increases, consumers are insisting on more sustainable drinks packaging. This new facility, in one of the UK’s best-known manufacturing locations, will help us to support our customers’ growth, creating fully recyclable cans which can play a role in a truly circular economy and support the local community.”

The Kettering facility will be Ball’s third can making facility in the United Kingdom, besides Milton Keynes and Wakefield plants.

While attending the opening of the facility on Friday, March 4, Philip Hollobone, North Northamptonshire MP, said: “I’m delighted to see this project go ahead. With its rich heritage, the production skills in Kettering are outstanding and it’s great to see a leading international company like Ball join the ranks of our existing manufacturers.”

Ball said the Kettering plant is being constructed in accordance with BREEAM ‘Excellent’ Sustainability and Environmental Standards. The plant will also have rainwater harvesting system and innovative technology to mitigate machinery exhaust emissions.

These unique features will make the Kettering plant the most advanced of its type, which will require 10 per cent less energy and 70 per cent less water than traditional can-making facilities.