Economy Minister Dr has welcomed a £5m
investment by Portadown-based premium snacking company, Kestrel
Foods, to support growing international demand for its chocolate
snack ranges.
The company is investing in advanced chocolate coating and
polishing technology, alongside expanded storage facilities at
its Carn Industrial Estate site in Portadown. The
investment will support the development of new premium products
and increase production capacity alongside the creation of 38 new
jobs over a 3-year period.
Visiting the company's facilities in Portadown, the Minister
said:
“Kestrel Foods is investing significantly in its processes to
boost productivity, supported by Invest NI's Agri-Food Investment
Initiative. This will enable the company to expand its product
range and grow export sales. As its Forest Feast brand approaches
its 30th anniversary, this investment marks another key milestone
in its journey from a local start-up to a globally recognised
premium snacking brand.
“The creation of 38 new jobs is also a major boost for the Armagh
City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council area, supporting my
agenda to deliver greater regional balance and ensuring economic
growth is felt across all parts of the north.”
Founded in 1996 by Michael and Lorraine Hall, Kestrel Foods has
grown from a local family business into an internationally
recognised food company exporting to 26 countries worldwide
through its Forest Feast, ACTI-SNACK, Just Live a Little and
Indie Bay brands.
Michael Hall, founder and Managing Director, said the investment
reflects the company's continued focus on innovation and
long-term growth:
“Our products are developed and produced in Northern
Ireland, where our artisan techniques, product innovation and
manufacturing expertise come together to create premium snacks
for customers around the world.
“To improve efficiency, we need to continue investing in
automation across our production lines. Installing a new
continuous chocolate coating and polishing line will
significantly enhance productivity while supporting our continued
growth and expansion into international markets.”
Invest NI has offered Kestrel Foods £350,000 of capital support
towards the chocolate coating and polishing line through its
Agri-Food Investment
Initiative (AFII),(external link opens in a new window / tab)
Grainné Moody, Director of Food and Drink, Invest NI, said:
“Kestrel Foods has delivered strong growth since Michael and
Lorraine established the business in 1996. We've worked closely
with the company since 2014, supporting its development through
capital investment, trade missions, skills development and
leadership training to help build capability and access new
markets.
“We are pleased to continue our support for Kestrel Foods through
this project, with our trade team also working with the company
to explore opportunities in European markets and support its next
phase of growth.”
