2 Sisters Food Group has underlined its commitment to Scotland by announcing a multi-million pound expansion plan at its chicken processing plant at Cambuslang near Glasgow, creating up to 180 new jobs.

The food manufacturing giant has revealed details to build a new 11,000sq.ft. extension to its plant, which will house two modern high volume ovens, spiral chillers and freezers, plus a general refurbishment of the current site.

The Cambuslang factory, based in Westburn Farm Road, handles added value poultry lines for 2 Sisters – namely roasted and coated chicken products such as breaded and seasoned chicken.

The new extension can accommodate up to 50% additional capacity at the site which will enable it to grow alongside customer demands.

The key to the expansion was agreement with all employees at the plant to change shift patterns and move to a seven day a week, 24 hour operation. The new shift patterns start from mid-February.

Olivier Goudineau, managing director of the 2 Sisters Added Value poultry, said: “We’re delighted to have come to an agreement with the Unions and extended our working hours at the factory. This has unlocked the expansion plan and in turn means we can take on 180 additional colleagues.

“A lot of hard work has gone into realising this opportunity and it’s a great example of working together to achieve our aims. Our colleagues, the Unite union, the local regeneration team in Scotland plus MSP James Kelly have all been instrumental in making this happen.

“I hope this expansion signals the beginning further investment in the Scottish poultry industry.”

Rutherglen and Cambuslang MSP James Kelly said: “This is great news for the workforce at the Cambuslang plant who have fought hard to protect their livelihoods and will also be a welcome boost to the local economy.

“I welcome the creation of new jobs in my constituency and will work with all interested parties to bring investment and employment into the area. The Cambuslang plant is already one of the biggest employers in the area and I will continue to work alongside the 2 Sisters Food Group and others on this very exciting project for the local area.”

This story was originally published on a previous version of the Meat Management website and so there may be some missing images and formatting issues.