Meat processor ABP has announced the proposed acquisition of Pilgrim’s Europe’s lamb business, including its Welsh processing facility at Llanidloes.
Pilgrim’s Europe said the sale would enable the company to focus on its core poultry, pork and value-added businesses.
Located in the heart of Wales, the site provides access to one of the UK’s most important sheep-producing regions and has built a strong reputation for producing premium Welsh lamb products. The site’s workforce would transfer to ABP, if the deal goes ahead.
ABP CEO Kevin Cahill said: “Llanidloes is an excellent strategic fit for our lamb business. The site is ideally positioned in the heart of Welsh lamb production and has a long-standing reputation for quality, supported by an experienced and dedicated team.
“We look forward to welcoming the Llanidloes team and working closely with the producers who supply the site, providing them with the benefits and support available through our network of more than 3,500 sheep farmers across the UK.”
Pilgrim’s Europe’s lamb retail packing operation at Andover is not included in the proposed transaction, as a result of ABP’s existing lamb deboning and retail packing capabilities across its UK network.
The compmay has, therefore, begun a consultation process regarding the proposed closure of the Andover site towards the end of January. Subject to consultation, the company hopes to retain staff through alternative employment opportunities across its UK operations.
Pilgrim’s Europe’s president Ivan Siqueira, said: “Following a strategic review of our lamb operations, we believe ABP is the right long-term owner for the Llanidloes business.
“The proposed transaction will enable continued focus and investment in our core poultry, pork and value-added businesses, while providing opportunities for future growth at Llanidloes within a specialist lamb processor.
We are incredibly proud of our colleagues at Llanidloes and Andover, as well as the farmers and producers who have supported the business over the years. Our priority is to support colleagues throughout this process and maintain continuity of supply and service for customers and producer partners during the transition.”