Nestlé is investing more than GBP 150 million (CHF 167 million) in its Nestlé Purina PetCare factory in Wisbech, United Kingdom. The move follows other recent investments in Purina facilities around the world, as Nestlé’s pet care business has grown strongly in recent years.
The site in Wisbech is home to some of the UK‘s favorite pet food brands including Felix, Gourmet and Winalot.
Works are already underway with completion expected in early 2025. This includes installing latest technology and machinery on its existing production lines, a re-vamp of facilities for the factory’s 600 workers and initiatives to improve energy efficiency and to help reduce carbon emissions over the coming years.
The investment means the factory has been able to recruit 40 new skilled roles, focused on optimizing and maintaining the new technology being introduced as part of the upgrades. Nestlé Purina is also investing in skills training for existing employees as part of the program.
Pet care is a strong growth category for Nestlé and in 2023 accounted for around 20% of total sales for the group, up from around 12% a decade ago. The company has recently announced a number of significant investments in pet care sites, including facilities in the United States, Brazil and Hungary.
The investment is in line with Purina’s mission to create richer lives for pets and the people who love them, while contributing to a more sustainable planet. It also reflects the company’s commitment to meeting the evolving trends in pet care and the growing emphasis on pet well-being.
