Global Technical Centre (GTC)

1732


Year Briggs’ rich legacy began, forming centuries of engineering excellence.

500+


The number of capital projects executed by Briggs of Burton across the globe, showcasing their global reach and expertise.

+£100 million


The substantial annual turnover of the business, underlining its substantial impact on the engineering and manufacturing sectors.

Briggs of Burton is a global leader in engineering solutions for the brewing, distilling, food, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. The company has its head quarter in the UK, where it has been operating since 1732. The UK site is located in Burton on Trent, a town with a rich heritage of brewing and engineering. 

The UK headquarters serves as Briggs of Burton’s Global Technical Centre and main hub of production. The site has a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility that can handle projects of any size and complexity. The site also has a dedicated pharmaceutical systems assembly (PSA) facility, where Briggs of Burton designs and builds bespoke solutions for the pharmaceutical sector. The PSA facility is equipped with clean rooms, testing labs and quality control systems to ensure the highest standards of safety and performance. 

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A focus on the future

Our state-of-the art Pharmaceutical Systems Assembly (PSA) Facility will shortly be opening at our Global Technical Centre.

Briggs of Burton is on the verge of a transformative expansion in pharmaceutical manufacturing, marked by a new state-of-the-art clean assembly manufacturing facility at its Burton on Trent headquarters. This bold move, undertaken just two years after a significant extension to their Global Technical Centre, showcases their unwavering commitment to advancing pharmaceutical capabilities and boosting employment opportunities in Burton on Trent. With their pharmaceutical division thriving, especially in the pressurised metered dose inhalers (pMDI) sector for respiratory conditions like asthma and COPD, Briggs is poised for a greener future by aligning with the industry’s sustainable propellant trends. The project introduces an expansive 890m2 hygienic clean production area, featuring six assembly bays and crucial equipment storage. This facility will serve as the central hub for constructing hygienic modular skid units vital for pharmaceutical manufacturing projects across the UK, Europe, and North America. Furthermore, an enhanced staff welfare area and extended outdoor space will enhance the well-being of the production team, aligning with their commitment to sustainability.

Briggs of Burton’s recognition as one of the UK’s fastest-growing engineering companies, particularly in the prestigious Make UK national manufacturing awards, solidifies their position as a trailblazer in the industry. Their holistic approach, emphasising environmental and well-being benefits, not only redefines pharmaceutical manufacturing but also fosters a sustainable future for the region where their manufacturing legacy began. This expansion signifies a remarkable leap forward in pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities, setting Briggs of Burton at the forefront of innovation and sustainability in the field.

United States of America (USA) – Kentucky/Rochester 

40


Celebrating over four decades of working across North America with two dedicated hubs in Rochester, NY and Louisville, KY

$37m 


Largest brewing project delivered by our US team for ABI Cartersville

5+


Instrumental in helping Beam Suntory expand their production across their Kentucky distilleries through Site Master planning and FEL 1-3 design studies

Briggs of Burton, Inc. are a leading company in the field of brewing and distilling equipment, with a long history of delivering projects across North America. Since our founding in 1983, we have completed projects in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, serving some of the most renowned brands in the industry.

We have two sales and engineering hubs in Rochester and Kentucky, where we leverage our expertise and innovation to provide customised solutions for our clients. We are proud of our legacy brands such as Pfaulder and Schock-Gusmer, which have set the standards for quality and performance in the market. We are always looking for new opportunities and challenges to showcase our capabilities and expand our reach. 

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An all-American spirit

In the vast and diverse landscape of the United States, the distilled spirits market has seen remarkable growth and transformation over the years.

The impact of Kentucky on the distilled spirits market is palpable across the entire country. Bourbon’s popularity has soared, becoming a symbol of American craftsmanship and heritage. Iconic brands like Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, and Wild Turkey have become household names, resonating with consumers far beyond the state’s borders. Tourists flock to Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail, a collection of distilleries that offer a glimpse into the centuries-old tradition of bourbon-making, fuelling a robust bourbon tourism industry.  

In the ever-evolving landscape of American spirits, Briggs of Burton has been an integral part of the journey for the past four decades. With roots firmly planted in North America, we’ve played a pivotal role in the growth and success of the distilling industry.

Our dedicated team, operating in Kentucky, brings forth a wealth of experience and engineering excellence. Their mission? To deliver large Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) projects that not only meet but exceed expectations. But our specialisation goes beyond the ordinary – it lies in the art of Site Masterplanning and Front-End (FE1-3) Design Studies.

Our commitment to being local to our customers is what sets us apart. It’s not just about being in the right place; it’s about understanding the unique challenges and opportunities that each region offers.We’ve been instrumental in supporting major Bourbon Whiskey producers like Jim Beam and Heaven Hill in their quest to expand production.

Through intelligent Site Masterplanning and comprehensive feasibility studies, we’ve helped these industry leaders make informed decisions. We’re not just engineers; we’re partners in progress, guiding the path to sustainable growth.

So, as you raise a glass of Bourbon Whiskey with your friends and family, take a moment to reflect on the hidden ingredient behind its excellence – the collaborative spirit and innovation of Briggs of Burton.

Asia Pacific

30 million


Litres of pure alcohol, largest grain whisky distillery delivered in APAC region

20,000 litres


Largest McMillan Coppersmiths whisky pot still supplied to APAC region

3 million


Litres of pure alcohol, largest malt whisky distillery delivered in APAC region

Briggs of Burton is a global leader in the design and installation of brewing and distilling equipment. We have successfully delivered projects in Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and China, working with both large-scale and craft producers.

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Our major achievements across this region include:

  • Building state-of-the-art breweries for major clients in Australia. 
  • Expanding the capabilities of our existing customers by supplying them with our innovative BrewStillery™ system, which allows them to produce spirits with their brewing equipment. 
  • Exporting high-quality copper pot stills from our subsidiary McMillan Coppersmiths to various brewers and distillers in Australia and New Zealand, who are creating premium whiskies and other spirits. 
  • Supporting the growth of the Chinese whisky market by providing distillation solutions and consultancy to local producers who want to compete in the international arena. 
  • We are proud of our long history and reputation in the brewing and distilling industry, and we look forward to continuing to serve our customers with excellence and innovation. 

 

A focus on Baijiu

Baijiu, the traditional Chinese spirit, holds a prominent place in Chinese culture and history.

Celebrated for its unique and distinctive taste, Baijiu is a distilled liquor traditionally crafted in China from ingredients such as sorghum, rice, wheat, and other grains. Baijiu has played an integral role in Chinese culture, symbolising social gatherings, celebrations, and business rituals through the cherished act of toasting. With its high alcohol content and a flavour profile that ranges from sweet to strong and pungent, Baijiu stands apart from other spirits in the global market.

Drawing from our extensive experience and expertise gained in spirit-producing regions like Scotland and Ireland, Briggs of Burton, in partnership with McMillan Coppersmiths, is dedicated to assisting Chinese distilleries in embracing the international spirits market. We empower these distilleries to venture into the production of Chinese Whisky, Vodka, Gin, and a diverse array of spirit types. As these distilleries seek to adapt their traditional Baijiu production methods to create internationally appealing spirits, our guidance and support are the keys to their success. With our assistance, they can craft spirits that not only honour their heritage but also cater to the evolving tastes and preferences of a global audience.

While Baijiu has historically dominated the Chinese alcohol market, a notable shift has occurred in recent years. China’s thriving economy and expanding middle class have ignited a growing interest in international spirits, particularly whisky. Whisky has garnered popularity among the younger, urbanised population, symbolising sophistication and global allure. This surge in whisky consumption is driven by a desire to explore different cultures and lifestyles, fuelled by the influence of Western media and marketing. As China’s thirst for international spirits continues to grow, the future of whisky in the country appears promising, offering exciting opportunities for the global spirits industry.

Scotland – North/Central 

Top 5


Proud to be supporting the biggest Scotch Malt Whisky producers with Briggs’ leading mashing technology

120+


Million litres of pure alcohol, the largest distillery Briggs have worked on

1867


Year McMillan Coppersmiths history can be traced back

Briggs of Burton is a leading engineering company in the distilling industry, with a long history of working across Scotland. From the Highlands to the Lowlands, Briggs has delivered many successful projects for distilleries of all sizes and types.

To better serve our customers in the North, we have established an office in Forres, near the famous Speyside region. We also have a sales and engineering hub with manufacturing capability at McMillan Coppersmiths in the central belt.

Whether it is consultancy, design, construction or equipment supply, Briggs of Burton can help distillers achieve their goals of expanding production, improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact. 

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A symbol of Scottish pride and tradition

Scotland boasts a rich cultural heritage, and one of its most significant cultural highlights is undoubtedly whisky.

Whisky, a true embodiment of Scotland’s identity and global renown, has been a timeless craft rooted in Scottish heritage. Today, this cherished tradition thrives, thanks to the collaboration of industry leaders like Briggs of Burton and McMillan Coppersmiths.

Briggs, a leading engineering company, plays a pivotal role in supporting the world’s biggest Scotch Malt and Grain Whisky producers in designing, engineering, and constructing some of the largest distilleries globally. Their commitment to engineering excellence, coupled with McMillan’s handcrafted coppersmithing located in the heart of Scotland, has earned them recognition as world-class EPC providers, not only within Scotland but also in regions like Japan, China, Ireland and the USA.

McMillan, with a legacy spanning centuries, has handcrafted copper pot stills and distillation equipment for many of Scotland’s most influential distilleries. Their expertise and dedication to the art of coppersmithing is truly exceptional.

Scotland boasts a tapestry of distinguished whisky regions, each crafting unique flavours and styles. From Islay’s smoky and peaty expressions to Speyside’s smooth and refined offerings, whisky mirrors the diverse landscapes and histories of the country.

Sustainability lies at the core of Briggs’ engineering principles. They have been instrumental in assisting distillers across Scotland in implementing cutting-edge distilling technologies, such as Mechanical Vapour Recompression (MVR). This innovative approach has enabled distillers to achieve remarkable energy savings, reducing their energy consumption by a staggering 80% in distillery operations. At Briggs, it’s not just about engineering; it’s about helping distillers reclaim their energy and embrace a sustainable future.

Mexico

140,000 litres


Per day is the production volume of tequila (40% ABV) that Briggs of Burton have implemented on one of the latest distilleries in Mexico

2018


Year we started working on agave based distillery projects

30,000L 


Design and construction of stainless steel stills from 5,000 litres to 30,000 litres, including copper worm tubs

The national spirits of Mexico

Known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Mexico offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. When it comes to beverages, Mexico is renowned for two iconic spirits: tequila and mezcal. 

Both tequila and mezcal are deeply embedded in Mexican culture and are celebrated as emblematic national spirits. They showcase the craftsmanship and dedication of the agave producers and have become symbols of Mexico’s rich heritage and culinary traditions. Whether you’re seeking a lively fiesta or a moment of tranquillity, these spirits offer a taste of Mexico’s passion and craftsmanship that captivates drinkers worldwide.

Tequila is a distilled alcoholic beverage made primarily from the blue agave plant, which grows in the Mexican state of Jalisco and a few surrounding regions. This fiery and flavourful spirit has gained global recognition and is often enjoyed neat, in cocktails like margaritas, or as a shot accompanied by a lick of salt and a wedge of lime. Tequila’s production process involves harvesting the agave, cooking the piñas (the heart of the agave), fermenting the juice, and distilling it to create a spirit with distinctive characteristics.

Mezcal, on the other hand, is another agave-based spirit that predates tequila and carries a more artisanal and smoky reputation. Unlike tequila, which is primarily made from blue agave, mezcal can be produced using various agave species. This versatile spirit is traditionally crafted in small batches, using time-honoured techniques that involve roasting the agave hearts in underground pits, crushing them, fermenting the juices, and distilling them in clay or copper stills. Mezcal’s distinctive flavours and aromas make it a beloved choice for sipping or as a key ingredient in cocktails. 

various distilleries across Mexico

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Quenching the World’s Thirst for Tequila

Crafting Tequila with Engineering Excellence

Briggs of Burton has made an impact in the home of Tequila. Our company, specialising in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) solutions, has played a pivotal role in the design, engineering, and construction of some of the largest industrial-scale distilleries in the region. With a dedicated sales and engineering office nestled in Guadalajara, our local Mexican team stands ready to provide unwavering support to our valued customers across the region.

We take pride in our comprehensive understanding of traditional, modern, and hybrid production processes for agave-based spirits. This encompasses small-scale production exceeding 10,000 litres per day at 40% ABV, as well as large industrial-scale operations exceeding 100,000 litres per day at 40% ABV. Our expertise extends to the design and construction of stainless steel stills ranging from 5,000 to 30,000 litres, complete with copper worm tubs, demonstrating our commitment to delivering tailored solutions.

These requirements encompass varying production scales, diverse product types including Blanco, Reposado, and Añejo tequilas, a commitment to delivering VIP and exceptional customer experiences, and an unwavering dedication to sustainability across carbon emissions, water usage and energy efficiency. Our collaboration extends beyond our core team, as we frequently partner with Civil, Structural, and Architectural (CSA) experts, combining our engineering expertise with their architectural know-how to bring your projects to life.

Furthermore, Tequila is experiencing unprecedented global popularity, with a remarkable 20% increase in global consumption over the past five years, cementing its status as one of the fastest-growing spirits worldwide. Our dedication to excellence in EPC services and our comprehensive understanding of Tequila production set us apart, ensuring that your vision is transformed into reality.