UK’s Meadow Foods to build new facility for plant-based products

UK-based dairy company Meadow Foods is building a new facility at its Chester site to manufacture plant-based food products.

The new facility involved a £4m investment and will be engaged in the production of a wide range of plant-based ingredients featuring a blend of oats and rice, as well as milk, creams, yoghurts and custard.

Meadow Foods CEO Mark Chantler told media sources: “We’re excited to be developing our capabilities and capacity to manufacture a range of plant-based products that extend the strength and depth of our product portfolio.

“Dairy remains core to our business and we will continue to explore strategic investments, partnerships and acquisitions that extend the range of quality products we are able to offer our customers, allowing us to offer complementary products alongside our dairy range.”

The new facility development comes in response to the increasing demand for high-quality, value-added plant-based products.

Construction works at the facility has commenced at the site in January and production is expected by year-end.

The company is also planning to further enhance its portfolio by adding new food products, including sour creams and soft cheese.

Last October, Meadow Foods expanded its portfolio with the acquisition of European company Nimbus Foods, which is engaged in manufacturing decorations, toppings and inclusions.

In September 2016, US-based food and agribusiness investment firm Paine & Partners invested in Meadow Foods. The investment supported Meadow Foods’ strategy to grow the business through organic expansion and acquisitions.