First opened 275 years ago, the site produces over 460 million bottles each year for major customers, including the Scotch Whisky Industry.
O-I Glass’s recent £150m investment in state-of-the art, sustainable technology was on show for the Deputy First Minister.
She toured the site’s newly rebuilt furnace and a second all-new furnace featuring state-of-the-art, energy-efficient technology.
The Deputy First Minister also heard about O-I’s role in supporting a circular economy through recycling and reuse, and how the proposed EPR scheme could create disproportionate costs for glass producers and encourage switching to less sustainable materials.
She met with employees and learned how O-I’s partnerships with local schools and workforce organisations are building the skills needed for Scotland’s future manufacturing sector.
Forbes said: “Using technology which is the first of its kind in Scotland, O-I Glass is leading the way in sustainable glass production. This is a great example of how Scotland’s manufacturing sector is driving innovation to deliver a green future.
“The Scottish Government provided £1.4m through our Scottish Industrial Energy Transformation Fund towards the conversion of a furnace which reduces carbon emissions by more than 7000 tonnes per year.
“The company’s longstanding commitment to Alloa, and its recent investment of more than £150 million at the site, is not only vital to local jobs but serves Scotland’s multi-billion pound food and drink sector which is central to our economy.”
Anthony Williams, UK managing director, O-I Glass said: “We’re proud to welcome the Deputy First Minister to Alloa to see the progress we’ve made through this major investment. The new furnace represents the next generation of glass manufacturing – improving efficiency, cutting carbon, and securing the long-term future of glass production in Scotland.
“It also strengthens our role in Scotland’s circular economy, ensuring that glass continues to set the standard for sustainable, infinitely recyclable packaging.”
Keith Brown MSP (Clackmannanshire and Dunblane), Leader of Clackmannanshire Council Cllr Ellen Forson and Cllr Scott Harrison also visited the site: “O-I’s investment into the site demonstrates how our historic industrial strengths can be harnessed to deliver modern, low-carbon manufacturing – supporting jobs, reducing emissions, and boosting green industry.”