Forterra opens Desford plant

As Forterra’s sole technology supplier, Bedeschi designed the entire production line, from clay preparation to final packaging.

Forterra’s new facility in Desford, Leicestershire, described as the largest and most efficient brick factory in Europe and a model of sustainability for the entire heavy clay industry, was officially opened at a ceremony held on 17 May.

Forterra invested £95 million in the new factory, which has more than doubled its capacity from 80 million to 180 million bricks/year (+22% increase in overall group capacity) and will emit approximately 25% less carbon per brick than the old factory.

The turnkey plant was supplied by Bedeschi who designed the entire production line, from clay preparation to extrusion, drying, firing, transport and automation through to final packaging.

As announced by Neil Ash, the new CEO of leading UK brick manufacturer, in supportive market conditions, the Desford site is expected to increase the group’s EBITDA by around £25 million in 2025.

Read the full article published in Brick World Review 2/2023