HEINEKEN UK cuts brewery carbon emissions by 42%
HEINEKEN UK is marking a major step forward in its sustainability journey and the decarbonisation of beer production following a £28.2 million investment in its Manchester Brewery
HEINEKEN UK’s Manchester Brewery has recorded a 42% reduction in CO₂ emissions intensity after investing £28.2 million in large-scale heat pump technology driven by cutting natural gas consumption by a third*. The reduction reflects the latest measured results since the system was commissioned last year, after installation work first began back in 2023.
The project has been supported by £3.7 million from the government’s Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (IETF), helping to accelerate the deployment of innovative technology aimed at reducing industrial emissions.
Sonia Thimmiah, Corporate Affairs Director at HEINEKEN UK said: “Our Brew A Better World strategy is all about turning ambitions into actions. The progress we’ve made at Manchester shows how global brewers can decarbonise whilst showcasing the leadership role our industry can play in the transition to net zero. “
Chris Kerr, Supply Chain Director at HEINEKEN UK said: “Decarbonising a brewery requires a combination of technology and skill, and is a complex challenge facing our industry. This project marks a step change in how energy can be generated and used in our Manchester Brewery and has impacted every part of our operations from inception to launch. It has been transformational for one of the largest breweries in the UK.
“Our team at Manchester are truly at the heart of this project and they have worked tirelessly behind the scenes to make this possible, adapting day to day while continuing to brew brilliant beer. Their support, drive and ability to continuously optimise the system to our specific requirements is what’s helping us decarbonise brewing while continuing to innovate at our historic brewery.”
HEINEKEN UK’s Manchester brewery employs over 240 people and brews around 2.5 million pints every day, including Heineken®, Birra Moretti, Cruzcampo, Foster’s, Amstel and Red Stripe.
*Percentage reductions in on-site natural gas use and CO2 emissions intensity (kg CO2/HL) at HEINEKEN UK’s Manchester Brewery are based on the period of July to December 2025, compared to the same period of July to December 2024.
