The construction consultancy Rekan has completed the build of a multi-million pound state-of-the-art factory and head office facility near Andover, Hampshire, for the worldwide sweet bakery manufacturer Rich Products. 

The 8-acre development allows one of the largest family-owned food companies in the world to consolidate all UK production facilities and business support functions on one site – tripling its output and creating around 100 jobs for the local community. 

Rekan, based in Winchester, successfully delivered the construction and project management of the build which involved more than 150 contractors and 45 consultants. The steel-framed building houses the most technologically advanced food-factory equipment in Europe, and it was delivered in just two years – from planning through to construction. 

The new Rich Products UK HQ boasts a production hall, part-automated finishing and packing, a dedicated artisan bakery and a new customer solutions centre.

Rekan has been a part of the project since its inception, taking it from a feasibility sketch all the way through to completion. They built teams of experts into every aspect of the construction to ensure a cost-effective project with minimal disruption. Other services included cost management expertise, stable but flexible supply-chain management and relocation management and support for 80 staff members.  

“We’re extremely proud to have delivered this project,which has showcased our full service offering on a hugely complex and substantial scale” said James Everton, Director of Rekan. “It’s our largest and most challenging project to-date, successfully delivered on-time and within budget thanks to the dedication and skill of the 15 Rekan staff involved across the various services.

“The size and scope of the enormous site presented us with a unique set of challenges, alongside managing multiple work streams and working to a fixed deadline for completion. We’re delighted to provide this new and ambitious facility, which will allow Rich Products to increase production and business efficiency for years to come.”

Ian Elliott, Operations and Supply Chain Director, Rich Products, added: “We chose Rekan because they align with our values. We may be a multi-billion dollar corporation, but at the heart of what we do sits family values, a commitment to caring for our customers and a truly united approach to our work. The Rekan ethos matches our own and as a result we created a rewarding partnership that delivered a future-proof factory, stunning office space and state-of-the-art facilities that will grow our business well into the future.” 

Due to the success of the project, Rekan was shortlisted for best Property Client Service in the South Coast Property Awards 2019. 

Rich Products supplies sweet bakery products and non-dairy toppings and fillings to the foodservice, in-store bakery and retail sectors. Its frozen and ambient bakery products include muffins, swirls, cookies and fruit breads. 

To find out more visit:www.rekan.co.uk

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