Dawn Foods has invested in a new automated dry packing line at its Worcestershire site as the company marks its 30th anniversary in the UK.

The company, which employs more than 200 people at the Evesham site, said the new filling and packing system was more sustainable and would reduce the use of packaging materials.

It utilises robot palletisation to boost efficiency at the site, which manufactures sweet bakery products, including dry mixes, bases and concentrates.

“Dawn Foods is investing significantly in its infrastructure both in terms of equipment and working methodologies as part of its programme for continuous growth,” said Tim Clarkson, cluster director for Dawn Foods UK & Ireland.

“Investments, such as the new automated dry filling and packing system, are part of Dawn’s growth strategy. We are committed to creating a culture of excellence that best meets our customers’ requirements across the UK and Europe.”

The line was opened by Dawn CEO Carrie Jones-Barber, grand-daughter of the Dawn Foods founder Marlin Jones, and Steven Verweij, Dawn’s president of Europe and AMEAP (Pictured right). The unveiling took place as Dawn Foods – a global business that began in the US in 1920 – celebrated 30 years of doing business in the UK.

The company marked the occasion with a party at Evesham that was attended by all staff, Dawn board directors, Dawn senior management and local dignitaries. Production stopped on-site on Friday while staff enjoyed a live band, took part in a product plaza using Dawn products and had a chance to decorate their own cakes.

As part of its celebrations, Dawn launched a partnership with local charity, Caring Hands in the Vale, which operates a food bank, clothing bank, household bank and baby bank, as well as resources for individuals who are homeless or sleeping rough.

“Dawn Foods started operating in the UK in 1989 and then afterwards opened its first site in Evesham; today we employ more than 200 people at the site,” said Clarkson.

“As one of the biggest employers in Evesham it was important for us to give back to the community where many of our staff live and assist those in the community who may be having a tough time at present. The Caring Hands charity does some superb work ensuring people have enough food and the basic resources to help get them back on their feet.”

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