Food Chain - Issue 210 - February 2026 | Page 121

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Mizkan
As a company, we have made significant investments in research and development, particularly in Japan. Through collaboration, we are open to embracing new technologies that align with specific market demands and consumer needs.”
Decades of dedication
In addition to its research and development capabilities, Mizkan has significantly invested in the expansion of its facility in Middleton, UK. Operations Director Simon Lock tells us more about the purpose of this investment and how it will transform the facility.“ We have developed a five-year investment plan for our Middleton factory, totaling circa £ 17 million. This plan encompasses several major enhancements, including a new factory roof, additional storage tanks and silos, and upgraded environmental protection systems. Moreover, we are investing in increased filling capacity in our bottling hall to support our growth, along with additional cooking capacity for rice wine vinegar and other Japanese vinegar varieties for both food service customers and new retail products in the UK and EU markets. We are also planning to implement automatic warehouse racking systems to boost storage capacity and improve safety, and to refurbish an older section of the factory to create new product development facilities. These upgrades will position us well to achieve our ambitious and innovative growth plan for Sarson’ s malt and spirit vinegars, as well as our range of Japanese products. Collectively, these initiatives will help secure the long-term future of over 100 jobs in the Middleton area,” he enlightens.
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