FRANCE – Altho Brets, a prominent French potato chip manufacturer, has unveiled plans to invest nearly €100 million (approximately US$107.7 million) in a new production facility, aiming to enhance its production capacity and address the increasing demand for potato chips in France.
The company intends to commence construction in the second half of 2024, to have the new plant operational by the end of 2025.
This strategic move aligns with the company’s commitment to expanding its operations and meeting the rising consumer demand for its products.
The new production facility will be strategically located near Altho Brets’ existing plant in Pontivy Communauté, Brittany.
The significant investment is expected to boost the company’s production capacity by an impressive 15,000 tonnes, marking a substantial increase in its output.
In addition to catering to the growing demand for potato chips in the domestic market, the expansion project is anticipated to contribute to the long-term sustainability of Altho Brets in the region.
Laurent Cavard, Chairman and CEO of Altho, emphasized the ambitious nature of the project, highlighting the nearly €100 million investment as aligned with the company’s values.
The investment is poised to create over 40 jobs by the year 2030, fostering economic growth and supporting local communities.
Moreover, the project aims to position Altho Brets as a key player in the French crisp market, responding to the evolving preferences of consumers.
The decision to automate production and logistics processes at the new facility underscores Altho Brets’ commitment to leveraging advanced technologies to enhance efficiency and productivity.
By incorporating automation into its operations, the company aims to streamline processes and meet the growing demand for its products with a more agile and modern approach.
Representatives from the Enterprise de Taille Intermediaire from Morbihan (ETI) revealed that potato chip sales in France witnessed a growth of over 4% in 2022.
Additionally, the disclosure that 40% of potato chips consumed in the country are imported underscores the opportunity for Altho Brets to play a pivotal role in meeting the local demand and potentially reducing reliance on imports.
As part of the expansion project, Altho Brets plans to modernize its existing site, focusing on improving productivity and ensuring that its operations align with industry best practices.
The commitment to reducing water consumption and utilizing bio-waste for sustainable practices reflects the company’s dedication to environmental responsibility.
“Altho Brets’ significant investment in a new potato chips factory signals a proactive approach to meeting the evolving demands of the market while contributing to economic growth and sustainability in the region.”
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