2SFG to expand prepared meals factory in Carlisle, UK

UK-based 2 Sisters Food Group (2SFG) is planning to expand its prepared meals factory in Carlisle with a capital investment of £7m.

The upgrade is in response to a major contract secured by the company from its customer, Marks & Spencer (M&S), to expand its product ranges.

2SFG CEO Ronald Kers said: “Our vision is to create a truly world-class business who is trusted to deliver, so we are delighted such a prestigious customer as M&S recognise and value us as a reliable partner with the ability to create quality food for the right price in a sustainable and transparent way.

“Delicious, healthy, convenient and affordable food is increasingly being sought by consumers, and our business can work extremely closely with customers like M&S to create own label brands that truly differentiate themselves from competitors.”

Under the terms of the contract, 2SFG will be engaged in the creation of more than 30 new food products at the site, including Gastro and fish meals with vegetable accompaniments.

2SFG noted that the company has already started production of fish meals while Gastro ranges and vegetable accompaniments will be launched later this year or early next year.

The investment will see the construction of a new vegetable processing facility, which will feature new cooling tunnels, steam-injected kettles for cooking and cooling sauces, new coating systems and two new automated packing lines.

The deal will also create 200 jobs at the factory, securing the long-term future of the site.

The Carlisle prepared meals factory currently produces food products, including British salmon, asparagus and Gastro seafood casserole.

New dishes that will be included later this year are Gastro ham and chicken crumble and Gastro Beef Bourguignon, in addition to more than a dozen potato accompaniment dishes.

M&S Food Technology head Kate Stein said: “We are transforming our supply base to create a faster, more commercial network, which will improve value and availability for our customers.

“The new site extension at Carlisle will help us react more quickly to consumer tastes, and develop and deliver great quality, innovative products to market.”