A juice drink firm is splashing out £1.1million on an extension to its factory in Lordswood, Chatham.

The Juice Executive, which is one of the UK's leading producers of cold-pressed juice drinks, supplying top organic retailers and hospitality, as well as its own brand, says the move will allow it to increase its capacity five times over.

Alex Auger, who runs the firm, says the investment comes after a strong year of growth, which saw own brand sales up 100% and wholesale revenues at record levels.

The 29-year-old entrepreneur, who employs 27 staff, said: "“Sustainability is a massive driver for the markets we operate in, and the latest expansion has been completed with this firmly in mind.

“In addition to the much-needed capacity boost, we have spent a lot of time designing a manufacturing facility for the future with our ‘Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)’ vision being to create a site that stands out now and in five, even ten years’ time.”

Formed seven years ago, it aims to create a further ten jobs over the next two years.

In addition, a new biodigester will turn 100% of its food waste into a water bi-product while electrical vehicle charging and green travel plans for all employees are being put in place.

The owner added: “This year is set to be our best ever and the investment we are making now gives us the platform to build on this and go after opportunities with new retailers, increase new product development activity and achieve expansion across our successful private label operation.”

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