Core Points - Carlsberg is investing £20 million ($40.1 million) in a new soft drinks canning line at its Rugby factory in the UK to significantly increase production capacity [1][2] - The new canning line will create over 30 permanent, full-time jobs, bringing the total number of employees at the Rugby site to more than 430 [2] - The Rugby facility will increase its production capacity from 560,000 to 610,000 canned soft drinks per hour, enabling the production of brands like Tango and Pepsi Max [1][3] Investment Strategy - This investment is part of Carlsberg's broader strategy to enhance its supply chain and production capabilities [2][3] - The total investment in the Rugby site over the past five years has exceeded £60 million [3] - The company is also focusing on operational efficiency and reducing carbon emissions, supported by a government grant for sustainability initiatives [4] Market Expansion - Carlsberg Britvic has signed an exclusive deal with an undisclosed retailer and is preparing to launch the US prebiotic soda brand Poppi in the UK within the next four months [5][6] - The new supply chain setup is expected to support the launch of Poppi, although it is not confirmed if the products will be produced locally or shipped from elsewhere [6]

Core Insights - DS Smith has partnered with Carlsberg Britvic to upgrade its packaging to a new OTOR8 'Bag-in-Box' design, aiming to enhance efficiency and sustainability in the supply chain [1][4] - The new design features an 8-sided shape that allows for an average of 25% more boxes to be loaded onto each pallet, optimizing logistics and reducing the number of pallets and lorries needed [2][3] - Carlsberg Britvic has invested over £9 million in carbon-cutting technology in the past three years and sources 75% of its grid electricity from solar panels, demonstrating a strong commitment to carbon reduction [4] Company Initiatives - The OTOR8 design is part of a broader initiative by DS Smith to improve supply chain efficiency and sustainability, aligning with its Circular Design Metrics to evaluate packaging circularity [5][6] - The partnership aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve warehouse storage efficiency, while also minimizing the risk of leakage and enhancing packaging stability [3][5] - Carlsberg Britvic produces over 25 million litres of soft drinks annually for the hospitality sector, emphasizing the importance of high-quality packaging in its operations [5]