Dunbia goes Dutch for export growth

Leading Northern Irish meat processor Dunbia has signed a joint venture agreement with Dutch-based company Shannon Meats to help expand exports to Europe.

The agreement between the companies marks a key milestone in Dunbia's strategic expansion plans.

Jim Dobson, Dunbia Group chief executive, says: "We have been doing business with Shannon Meats for many years and have always been extremely impressed with their business approach which sits well with our own corporate ethos and values.

"Our plans to increase our export markets have been well documented. Shannon Meats has the networks and infrastructure to allow us to access new customers in the retail and wholesale trade in Holland and the Benelux countries."

Shannon Meats, based in Zoetermeer, near The Hague in the Netherlands, only works with Irish beef and has over 25 years' experience in the industry.

Ronnie Bosma, chief executive of Shannon Meats, adds: "This is a very exciting time for Shannon Meats. We have excellent relationships with a number of key Irish suppliers, which supply us with top-quality Irish beef and these relationships will continue.

"The agreement with Dunbia will bring us experience in livestock procurement and an introduction to the excellent farmers which Ireland has. Dunbia is a company with which we have done business for years. We have great respect and admiration for their drive, vision and integrity and look forward to a long and successful partnership."