James White Drinks - Client Case Study
Installing replacement refrigeration equipment within a refrigerated reefer storage container.
Client:
James White Drinks

Location:
Ashbocking, Suffolk
Project type:
Installing replacement refrigeration equipment within a refrigerated reefer storage container.
Background:
Based in the heart of Suffolk, James White Drinks produce a range of fruit and vegetable juices for the UK and international markets. One of their core products is the Beet It concentrated beetroot juice brand. Prior to production, the beetroot ingredient is stored in refrigerated Reefer containers. With one of the container’s integral refrigeration equipment beyond repair, Pitkin & Ruddock were asked to install a new system.
Requirements:
Installing equipment within shipping containers comes with a number of constraints. The thick metal structure creates challenges for running pipework and cables, whilst still maintaining the container’s integrity. Plus, this particular unit was in the middle of a row of containers, so access to the sides was relatively limited. In addition, the install was undertaken over 3 of the hottest days of the year, making the inside of the container a difficult environment to operate in.
Other Challenges & Solutions:
Having previously worked on similar container upgrades for James White Drinks, the Pitkin & Ruddock team had a very good understanding of the project scope and equipment requirements. However, with the specified equipment being unavailable within the time-frame, we had to work with the client to identify and source alternative equipment, to ensure the strict project deadline was met.
Outcome:
- Pitkin & Ruddock supplied and installed a large Searle Evaporator within the container.
- Plus, a J&E Hall Condensing Unit on the roof.
- In addition, the team installed a purpose-built system control panel on the rear of the container.
- The project was completed on time and in budget.
What our Refrigeration & Air Conditioning customers say
Thank you so very much for all the work you’ve put into this, I very much appreciate it. Your honesty and integrity about value-added is brilliant. But the effort you’ve put in has already added value.
Wine Merchant
Firstly wanted to say what a lovely job your lads have done at Lynn, they are a real credit to you and wish to pass on my thanks.
Facilities Management - East Anglia
The engineer was super efficient. The unit is working so much better now after the service.
Manufacturer - Norfolk
Pitkin & Ruddock looked after our HVAC needs at one of our sites and recently installed new systems for us at another. Their work is good, and we have always found them to be straightforward and ethical. Richard is both proactive and professional and I’d recommend you reaching out to him when the time is right.
Equipment Supplier - Suffolk
Just to let you know that I was very impressed with the whole job to install the new cooler by Pitkin & Ruddock. All aspects of the installation, site visits to inspect and check the equipment, professionalism of your installation engineers and commissioning engineers and time management to complete the works around my time frame. I will recommend your services. Please pass on my thanks to the team.






