Brecon Mineral Water which produced 40 million bottles last year is investing in new equipment, planning its largest advertising and marketing campaign to date and gearing up for the economic upturn.
The company, which is headquartered in Trap near Llandeilo, has reorganised its sales team, recruited additional sales staff and invested in a new bottle blowing machine capable of producing up to 10,000 bottles an hour on site.
It produces the well known Brecon Carreg Natural Mineral water and aiming to increase sales considerably over the next two years particularly in Wales, which currently accounts for 50% of its sales.
Its investment in new equipment, which is supported by the Welsh Assembly Government through the Single Investment Fund, will enable the company to increase production on their 1.5 and 2 litre bottle line.
Commercial manager David Stockley said:
“Although it’s been a difficult few years for business our sales have been growing and we have maintained our profitability throughout the recession.
“The next stage is growth and we have ambitious plans that are backed by the decision to invest in equipment and launch a new marketing campaign. It’s a mark of confidence in the future of the business and will put us in a very strong position.
“We aim to move up to the next level to take advantage of what will be an improving economy and the funding support from the Assembly Government will help us reach that level.”
Ieuan Wyn Jones, Minister for the Economy and Transport, said he was pleased to hear that like many other companies in Wales, Brecon Mineral Water was preparing to take advantage of the upturn in the economy.
“It has been a difficult time for the economy but companies are still investing to ensure they will be in a prime position to maximise the opportunities when conditions improve.
“It is particularly good to hear that companies like Brecon Mineral Water which make an important contribution to the rural economy are planning to grow and are investing in their future. The Assembly Government’s Single Investment Fund is available to help companies at all stages of their development and can support businesses like Brecon Mineral Water with their expansion plans.”
The company’s plans build on a re-branding exercise last year which saw the launch of a new bottle shape. Brecon Mineral Water has 30 different product lines in still and sparkling waters that are sold in sizes ranging from 30 centilitres to 2 litres.
Sales of the 1.5 and 2 litre bottles to the multiple retailers are becoming increasingly important and it is this side of the business that is set for expansion which Mr Stockley described as a crucial development for their future growth.
Brecon Carreg mineral water is extracted from a pure source fifty metres underground and the business literally began as a cottage industry in 1978 and was based in the farmhouse that has now been converted into offices.
Spadel, the company’s Belgian parent company, has invested more than £7million in the business which includes the development of a purpose built production facility and equipment. Brecon Mineral Water now has a £6m turnover per annum and employs 29 people.
