'Truly heartbreaking news' for Cushendall and Ballymena as Glens of Antrim Potatoes ceases to trade: Cllr McKillop
A Causeway Coast and Glens councillor has described the news that Glens of Antrim Potatoes has ceased trading as ‘truly heartbreaking’.
Cllr Margaret Anne McKillop was speaking after it was announced that joint administrators were appointed on Monday (September 21) to Glens of Antrim Potatoes Ltd, which operates from sites in Ballymena and Cushendall.
Cllr McKillop said: “This is truly heartbreaking news for Cushendall and Ballymena, as Glens of Antrim Potatoes and Crisps enters administration.
"For many years, the business has been part of the fabric of Cushendall and, more recently, Ballymena. It has provided employment for generations of local families, including my own. Like so many families across the Glens, we have had someone who worked at the factory over the years.
"My thoughts are with everyone affected by this devastating news, particularly the 95 employees who have suddenly found themselves without work so close to Christmas.
"It is difficult to put into words the shock and sadness felt across the community at seeing such a well-known and much-loved local employer come to an end in this way.
"The Glens of Antrim have lost more than a business; they have lost an important part of their community, heritage and history. My thoughts are with all the workers, their families and everyone connected with Glens of Antrim during this incredibly difficult time.”
Established in 1972 in the heart of the Glens, the company began with a passion for field-to-fork quality, growing and packing potatoes for leading supermarkets and other grocery chains across Ireland.
It also produces a range of hand-cooked potato crisps which retail under the Glens of Antrim Crisps brand.