Matt Bishop MP, the newly-elected MP for the Forest of Dean, recently visited the Suntory Beverage and Food GB&I factory in Coleford, where he was impressed by the site's long-standing history of producing iconic brands like Lucozade and Ribena.

Mr Bishop was given a tour of the site, which has been producing Ribena since 1947, meeting employees across the company's production, operations, sustainability, and management teams.

The factory employs over 290 people and throughout the visit the MP was given an insight into the history of the site, how SBF GB&I continues to make sustainable changes to its operations and the significant investment in the factory over the last decade.

Meeting with SBF GB&I chief operating officer Elise Seibold, they also discussed the importance of investing in skills and jobs in the area and continuing to promote the Forest of Dean as a great place to work.

Elise Seibold underlined SBF GB&I's commitment to the local area, saying: "We are incredibly proud that our factory and brands can call the Forest of Dean its home. It was a pleasure to show Matt around the site and bring to life what we mean when we say we are 'growing for good' - how we continue to make sustainable improvements alongside production.

"We wish Matt the greatest success in representing the people of Coleford and the wider community in Westminster and look forward to collaborating in the coming months and years."

Matt Bishop MP said: "SBF GB&I is a significant employer in Coleford, and it's great to see their ongoing investment and commitment to innovation at the factory, which aligns with the company's goal of reducing its environmental impact.

"SBF GB&I's dedication to the local community in the Forest is clear, and I was pleased to hear about the various opportunities for employees to get involved in community initiatives within the Forest of Dean."

With over 80 years of history, SBF GB&I's Coleford factory continues to provide skilled jobs and plays a vital role in the local economy.

Mr Bishop praised the company's continued investment in its production site, adding: "Coleford is firmly established as the home of two of the UK's most beloved drink brands! I want to thank them for giving me an informative tour and I look forward to working together to support this important local employer."