Crisp results from Northern Irish Tayto Group

Profits are up and turnover has edged towards the &pound200 million mark at the county Armagh-based Tayto Group, manufacturer of the iconic Northern Irish potato crisp brand.

Based at Tandragee, Tayto, which owns a number of food companies including Golden Wonder, Real Crisps and Mr Porky in Britain, reported turnover of &pound179 million for the year to 28 June 2014, compared with &pound166 million for the year before.

The company, which itself is owned by the Manderley Food Group, also enjoyed a pre-tax profit rise from &pound4.74 million to &pound5.52 million

However, writing in the financial results Tayto directors report that the crisps and snacks market "continues to be challenging" because of significant competition in the retail sector and continued pressure on consumers.

"While there is the continued risk of volatility of raw material prices, the directors are confident that the group has adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future," the add.

Tayto Group manufactures a wide range of crisps and snacks. Since 1956 the Tayto brand has been made in a factory based at Tandragee Castle in the heart of the County Armagh countryside. Tayto is now one of the best known Northern Irish food brands.