Exploring Encirc’s all-in-one solution

Encirc’s integrated approach is not just for efficiency, but also offers the industry a model for innovation and sustainability. In the heart of the drinks industry, Encirc has emerged as a powerhouse – pioneering a sustainable, comprehensive approach to glass manufacturing and beverage supply chains. Part of the Vidrala Group, Encirc operates from three strategically located sites, one in Derrylin, Northern Ireland, and a further two in England: Elton in Cheshire and Avonmouth in Bristol. With a workforce of nearly 2,000 skilled employees, Encirc produces over 3 billion glass containers annually for leading global brands and fills almost 400 million litres of many of the popular brands you see on your supermarket shelves. But Encirc’s story doesn’t end with numbers. It’s a narrative of sustainability, innovation, and a unique operational model that has revolutionised the beverage industry.

Reaching market leadership

Since its inception in 1998 with a single plant in Northern Ireland, Encirc has grown to dominate the UK market, boasting a 40% share of UK and Ireland glass bottle sales and collaborating with 15 of the top 20 wine brands by volume in the country. Alongside producing world-class glass containers, Encirc has become one of the leading wine, beer, and soft drinks bottlers in the UK. Yet, what truly sets Encirc apart is its commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation.

The 360 Advantage

Encirc’s hallmark is its groundbreaking 360 service – a unique, end-to-end beverage supply chain solution. Unlike traditional manufacturers, Encirc integrates glass container production, advanced filling facilities, warehousing, and logistics into a single seamless package. This exclusive model offers unparalleled advantages for customers:

• Reduced Environmental Footprint: By consolidating multiple supply chain processes under one roof, Encirc eliminates unnecessary transportation, leading to significant CO2 savings.
• Cost Efficiency: The integrated approach minimises transportation and handling costs, delivering both economic and environmental benefits.
• Streamlined Operations: With facilities capable of filling, storing, and shipping products directly to retail distribution centers, Encirc ensures a faster, more efficient supply chain.

Encirc’s bulk shipping model is a shining example of this efficiency. Wine and carbonated beverages are transported in bulk via road, rail, or sea to Encirc’s facilities, where they are stored, bottled, and prepared for distribution. This process not only maintains product quality but also reduces spoilage risks and optimises resource use.

At the cutting edge

Encirc’s state-of-the-art facilities include nine high-speed bottling lines, three Bag-in-Box lines, a canning line, and a pouch filler, collectively producing 2.2 million bottles daily. With a capacity of 400 million litres annually, Encirc offers flexible shift patterns and multi-format packaging solutions to meet diverse customer demands. Its key features include:

• • Automated Warehousing: Encirc boasts a 340,000-pallet bonded warehouse—one of the largest in the world—with a stock accuracy of 99.99% and 24/7 operations.
• Innovative Logistics: Agile partnerships with major freight forwarders ensure an optimised supply chain, while consolidated loading reduces delivery inefficiencies.
• Bespoke Solutions: An in-house beverage development team and blending facility enable Encirc to create custom products for clients, ranging from 0% to 22% ABV.

Sustainable and innnovative

Encirc’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond reducing emissions. The company’s holistic approach encompasses environmental, social, and economic considerations, aligning with its ambitious Net Zero mission. By championing bulk shipping, Encirc helps global wine producers transition to more sustainable practices without compromising quality. Flexibags and advanced monitoring technologies preserve wine integrity, while pioneering stabilisation and preservation solutions expand possibilities for producers. Additionally, Encirc’s innovation-driven culture allows it to quickly adapt to industry trends. By investing in research and development, the company ensures that its processes remain at the forefront of sustainability and efficiency, providing customers with high-quality, environmentally friendly products.

Collaboration and excellence

Encirc’s ethos is rooted in six core values: commitment to customers, people development, sustainability, high performance, collaboration, and continuous improvement. These principles guide every aspect of the business, fostering a culture of collaboration and empowerment. From working closely with global winemaking teams to creating bespoke quality plans, Encirc’s partnerships are built on trust and shared goals.

Shaping the future

As both a packaging manufacturer and a "liquid guardian," Encirc is redefining the role of the supply chain in the beverage industry. Its integrated approach not only secures product quality and brand integrity but also unlocks new opportunities for innovation and sustainability. By delivering tailored solutions and championing sustainable practices, Encirc is setting a new standard for the beverage industry. Its 360 model is more than just a supply chain solution—it’s a vision for a smarter, more sustainable future.