GARTCOSH, SCOTLAND — In a significant boost for Scotland’s manufacturing and whisky sectors, Italian packaging giant Guala Closures has officially opened a €60 million next-generation facility in Gartcosh, marking one of the largest investments by an Italian firm in the UK.
The cutting-edge 20,000 square meter plant will produce high-end closures and security features for bottles—particularly for the Scotch whisky industry—and is expected to employ over 300 skilled professionals, deepening Guala’s presence in a region globally celebrated for spirits production.
Scotch Whisky Meets High-Tech Manufacturing
Strategically located in the heart of Scotland’s whisky belt, the Gartcosh facility already supplies over 100 distilleries. Guala Closures’ expansion aims to cement its role as a premium partner to both global whisky giants and boutique producers alike.
The move comes as the Scotch whisky industry continues to boom, contributing an estimated €7.9 billion to the UK economy in 2024, including €6.2 billion in exports. The facility’s proximity to these producers is expected to enhance supply chain efficiency, quality control, and product innovation.
“The opening of our Gartcosh facility is more than just an inauguration – it’s a bold statement of our vision for the future,” said Andrea Lodetti, CEO of Guala Closures. “We’re here to serve and grow with the Scotch whisky industry, while leading the way in sustainable packaging innovation.”
Scottish-Italian Collaboration and Government Backing
The opening ceremony on July 18 was a high-profile affair attended by Scottish Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee, Veronica Ferrucci, Consul General of Italy in Edinburgh, and Adrian Gillespie, CEO of Scottish Enterprise, among other dignitaries.
Scottish Enterprise contributed over €3.5 million in grant funding to support the project—emphasizing the government’s commitment to attracting international manufacturing investment.
“This investment reinforces Scotland’s attractiveness as a base for advanced manufacturing,” said Gillespie. “It supports local jobs, strengthens one of our core export sectors, and aligns perfectly with our sustainability ambitions.”
Inside the Factory of the Future
The Gartcosh plant is loaded with next-gen technology. It features Electro Magnetic Forming (EMF)—a proprietary technique developed and patented by Guala Closures—enabling intricate product detailing and enhanced tamper-evidence.
The use of robotic systems and flexible automation streamlines production, improves worker safety, and allows for faster response to client needs. The plant also includes a symphonic drainage system, motion-sensor LED lighting, and a layout optimized to reduce material handling and forklift movement.
A standout feature is its 2.4 MW rooftop solar array, which significantly offsets the site’s energy needs, combined with high-grade insulation and airtightness to minimize emissions.
Sustainability and Circular Economy Commitments
Guala Closures emphasized that the Gartcosh plant isn’t just about technology—it’s a model of sustainable industrial design.
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Energy-efficient infrastructure: Solar panels, LED systems, and smart automation throughout the site.
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Water conservation: Sustainable urban drainage (SUDS) and underground attenuation tanks protect local ecosystems.
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Materials management: Internal logistics have been designed to minimize waste, emissions, and noise.
This aligns with Guala’s global targets for carbon neutrality and circular packaging systems, particularly for single-use and high-value bottle closures.
Guala in the UK and Beyond
This expansion adds to Guala’s existing footprint in the UK, reinforcing ties with key beverage companies and enabling faster service for domestic and export markets. With demand for traceable, secure, and sustainable packaging soaring, especially in the premium spirits segment, the firm is positioning itself to lead the next wave of bottling innovation.
“We’re not just supplying closures—we’re safeguarding authenticity, elevating design, and future-proofing heritage,” said Gabriele Del Torchio, Chairman of Guala Closures, speaking at the event.
At a Glance: Gartcosh Facility Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Investment Value | €60+ million |
| Size | 20,000 sqm |
| Jobs Created | 300+ skilled positions |
| Industry Served | Whisky, premium spirits, beverages |
| Green Features | 2.4 MW solar array, SUDS system, LED lighting, smart automation |
| Innovation | Patented EMF tech, robotic manufacturing |
| Funding Support | €3.5 million from Scottish Enterprise |
