Pilgrim's UK has announced the acquisition of Randall Parker Foods (RPF), along with plans to invest in the company's manufacturing facilities.
All 350 RPF employees, including its management teams, will remain in place under existing terms and conditions.
RPF's two manufacturing facilities - an abattoir in Powys processing up to 20,000 lambs per week and a retail packing plant in Andover - will form part of Pilgrim's UK's Dalehead Foods division.
Pilgrim's UK revealed that it plans to invest further in the two manufacturing sites and stated that the acquisition will help Pilgrim's UK to capitalise on the export popularity of British lamb.
Andrew Cracknell, CEO of Pilgrim’s UK, said: “Randall Parker Foods has a strong reputation as a processor of quality lamb and having worked with Dalehead Foods for almost 30 of the 40 years we have been producing lamb products, this acquisition is a natural fit for both organisations.
“It will bring our lamb operations closer together into a single integrated supply chain which will benefit team members and customers alike, securing jobs, investment and growth for a sustainable future.
“We look forward to working even more closely with the RPF teams whose energy, experience and enthusiasm, combined with the highest quality livestock, will offer customers and consumers a first-class supply chain for British lamb.”
Future looks "secure and exciting"
Ron Randall CBE, chairman of Randall Parker Foods Limited, said: “The shareholders of RPF are delighted to be able to confirm the acquisition and are so happy that the future of RPF will be secured and brighter, with the business in the safe hands of a company with the scope and resources of Pilgrim’s UK.’’
RPF's managing director Jim Gaffney, who will continue to oversee operations at the two sites, said he was "delighted" for RPF's employees, customers and suppliers. He added: "The future as part of Dalehead Foods looks both secure and exciting. I look forward to working with new colleagues and our customers to achieve our common goals.’”
Pilgrim's UK recently announced revenue growth in 2020, helping the business to move into profit after several consecutive years of losses.
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.
