HelloFresh, a recipe box company, has launched its latest flagship automated production facility in Derby, known as ‘The Windmill’. The site was inaugurated through a ribbon-cutting ceremony by UK CEO Adam Park and Pauline Latham OBE MP for Mid Derbyshire.
The new facility has generated approximately 300 job opportunities for the local community so far, with more anticipated as production scales up in the upcoming months. The automated production lines at The Windmill will offer HelloFresh and Green Chef customers a wider range of choices and the ability to personalize their meals.
Aligned with HelloFresh’s dedication to a sustainable future, The Windmill has been established in collaboration with SmartParc SEGRO Derby, a low-carbon food manufacturing campus in Spondon, Derby. It aims to be one of the most sustainable production facilities in the nation, featuring a rainwater harvesting system, a 22 MVA rooftop solar panel array, and a shared heating and cooling system that recycles heat from refrigeration plants to heat water and offices in the estate.
Attaining an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating for energy efficiency, the site will derive 100% of its energy from renewable sources. It will also provide EV charging spaces, local bus services aligned with production hours, and secure bike storage to reduce local emissions and support employees.
The expansion of production capabilities at The Windmill will support HelloFresh Group’s long-term growth ambitions and serve as a platform for future growth and innovation for its brands in the UK. The automation technology implemented will enable better handling of product complexity to offer customers more recipe choices and options to personalize their meals.
Furthermore, the site will leverage predictive algorithms and technology to enhance inventory management processes, reduce waste, and deliver fresher ingredients. The Windmill has already created around 300 job opportunities for the local community, with more to be added as production escalates in the coming months.
In addition, The Windmill will bolster HelloFresh’s community support, including contributions to local charities such as Community Action Derby. The company donates ingredients for over 100 meals each week to help those facing food insecurity in the area.
Adam Park, HelloFresh UK CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for the opening of The Windmill in Derby, emphasizing the investment made to introduce advanced automated production technology in the region. The site will handle production complexity efficiently, providing customers with more choices while creating job opportunities for skilled individuals in the community.
Overall, HelloFresh looks forward to contributing to the growth and innovation journey planned for HelloFresh and Green Chef in the UK, as highlighted during the opening ceremony attended by various distinguished individuals.
