Ibstock invests £12m to reduce carbon output by 19%

Ibstock has invested over £12 million into its Aldridge factory, which it said will improve its energy efficiency and quality at the site.

As part of its investment, it has also upgraded its legacy technology in the facility. This includes installing brand-new dryers, which now include screen-controlled moisture monitoring – this helps minimise heat wastage.

Jason Grimston, factory manager at Aldridge, said: “As factory manager, it has been fantastic to see the impact the £12 million investment is having on our operations here at Aldridge. I’m not speaking in hyperbole when I say the funding has propelled the factory into a new era, where our 37-strong on-site team are now able to maximise their efficiency by utilising some truly state-of-the-art, semi-autonomous technology.

“At full demand, the factory will be able to produce up to 30 million bricks per year – ensuring we can guarantee a consistent supply to merchants and their end customers. Our commitment, however, doesn’t end at quantity; its about quality and sustainability, too. By upgrading the technology we’re using to manufacturer our bricks, we’re able to ensure real consistency of quality for each and every brick that leaves the kiln.

“Indeed, with improved processes, we’re not just meeting standards – we’re setting new benchmarks for repeatability, consistency and aesthetic appeal. This investment is futureproofing Aldridge to ensure we remain best placed to meet changing customer demand and build a future where innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.”

The upgrades to its factory also include installing a new system, which is largely automated, the setter can now process 10,000 bricks an hour – double the previous machine’s capabilities.

Ibstock’s investment has enabled a refurbishment of kiln cars and upgrades. It also expects, upon completion, gas consumption at the site to be reduced by 25% – which equates to a total carbon reduction of 19%.