Siemens and Encirc enter strategic technology partnership
Siemens PLC (UK & Ireland) and leading glass manufacturer and contract bottler Encirc have agreed a memorandum of understanding that will see both companies enter a strategic technology and digitalisation partnership in the coming years.
The memorandum represents the start of a technology partnership agreement between the two companies, designed to spearhead the deployment of advanced digital technologies and services across Encirc’s operations.
Encirc, part of the Vidrala group since 2015, has two sites; one in Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, close to Ballyconnell (formerly part of the Quinn Group) and one in Chester England. With over 33% market share, the company manufactures container glass for the food and beverage industry. With its state-of-the-art contract bottling facility, 52,000m2 automated bonded warehouse and a multi-faceted logistics offering, Encirc supports its customers with sustainable beverage supply chain options.
The company plans to invest significantly in furnace rebuilds over the next five years at both its sites.
The technology deal comes into effect immediately and will be based on three core themes:
· A commitment from Siemens’ Digital Factory and Process businesses to supply innovation and new product across Encirc’s sites
· An unique energy partnership designed to significantly reduce emissions
· Siemens’ commitment to deliver a wholesale digital transformation project
Adrian Curry, managing director of Encirc, said: “We are looking forward to developing this strategic partnership with Siemens, which will enhance our reputation as leaders in technology, innovation and sustainable manufacturing. It represents Encirc entering a new phase in terms of digitalisation and future technologies. Further reducing our energy use and emissions will also build on our commitment to provide customers with the most environmentally friendly route to market possible.'
The Memorandum of Understanding was agreed at Encirc’s Elton site on Friday, February 17.
Siemens UK and Ireland CEO, Juergen Maier, added: “This is a landmark technology partnership, which is about two central challenges – industrial digitalisation and reducing carbon emissions. We’re delighted to be partnering with Encirc, not only are they progressive when it comes to innovation, they also understand that this relationship has the potential to be a platform to show industrial digitalisation in action in the glass sector. We’re looking forward to joining them on this important journey in the coming years.”