Dunbia expands in Britain

Dunbia, the leading Northern Ireland meat processor, has expanded its operations in Britain through buying the trade and assets of Heathfield Foods Ltd in Crewe.

This latest expansion brings the total number of processing facilities in the Dunbia Group, which is headquartered in Dungannon, to 10 throughout the UK and Ireland.

The company, which has turnover in excess of £600 million and employs around 3,000 people throughout the UK and Ireland, is also following up export leads generated from its participation in the recent Anuga food exhibition in Cologne. Dunbia currently exports to 15 markets.

Jim Dobson, Dunbia's managing director, commenting on the latest acquisition, said: "The strategic location of the Heathfield Foods facility coupled with its strong pork supply base positioned it as a perfect fit for the Dunbia Group. By dovetailing into the existing business operations and infrastructure of Dunbia, the site will further increase our overall pork processing capabilities."

He added: "This is an exciting development for Dunbia, and having the ability and expertise to commence production immediately at the site highlights our commitment to growing the business as well as safeguarding the jobs of all current employees."

The Heathfield Foods facility has been renamed to Dunbia (Crewe) and Dunbia production commenced on 24th October.

Pic caption: Enterprise Minister Arlene Foster is pictured at Anuga 2011 with James Paice MP, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food; and Richard Lochead, MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Environment.