Portadown-based Kestrel Foods invests £5m to support international growth of its Forest Feast brand
Portadown-based company Kestrel Foods has announced a £5m investment to support growing international demand for its chocolate snack ranges.
The premium snack business is investing in advanced chocolate coating and polishing technology, alongside expanded storage facilities at its Carn Industrial Estate site.
The investment will support the development of new premium products and increase production capacity alongside the creation of 38 new jobs over a three-year period.
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),
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.”
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The news has been welcomed by Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald who added: “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.”