Thirty years ago, EPC-UK, which at the time was Exchem, first introduced its groundbreaking product, Multiblend, to the UK market. Regarded as having ‘the power to move mountains’, Multiblend, and its historic launch to the industry, instantly enabled dramatic improvements to the blasting process for customers, removing the need to store explosives on site.

“It was a real advancement for the time,” EPC-UK’s General Manager, Blasting and Explosives, Ben Coppock explains. “Safer, quicker and more economical, the Multiblend truck, supported by trained operatives, brought the explosive components on site for customers and mixed them in situ before delivering the prepared product straight ‘down the hole’ ready for firing. 

“By adjusting the waterproof mixture our operatives could tailor explosives to suit site conditions, whilst the higher density and 100% coupling improved customers’ yields and enabled the explosive energy to be more effective.”

Marking the milestone

Looking for a fitting way to celebrate the 30th anniversary of this industry changing achievement, Ben chose to once again team up with our ale production partners, Peak Ales, to create a perfect addition to EPC-UK’s growing line of craft ales ready to enjoy once teams break up for the Christmas holidays. 

With beers EPC Boost and Precision Blast Bitter already in production, Peak Ales’ Sales and Marketing Manager JoJo Cater says more about the new ale release: “The beer recipe EPC-UK has chosen is multi award-winning and one of Peak Ale’s longest serving successes. First brewed in 2006, the golden ale is made with the finest hops, malted barley and honey, which blend to create a sweet and smooth flavour with a slight hint of bitterness. It is no wonder that EPC-UK selected this magnificent golden ale for their Multiblend Gold Ale choice.”

A perfect pint partnership

“We are delighted to work once again with EPC-UK,” JoJo continues, “fulfilling their festive corporate beer packs and providing a quality service throughout. Over the years Ben has aligned EPC-UK products with Peak Ale beers and this year’s Multiblend Gold Ale is the perfect match for the company’s bulk emulsion celebration.” 

Celebrating service

It’s not just Multiblend that’s been part of EPC-UK for 30 years. In 2024 we have also celebrated the long service achievements of Mark Bowen and Brian Coultherd, who both reached their three-decade milestones with EPC-UK. They join other 30 year plus team members, Malcolm Foster, Anthony Evans, Roger Pile, Michael Allan, Gavin Shiell and Darren Hughes, all of whom we thank for their passion, consistency, commitment and service. 

Customers will receive their festive ales in the run up to Christmas, ready to take home for the winter break. We’d like to thank everyone for their continued partnership, and we look forward to working with you again in 2025.