Cranswick has continued its recent expansion, with the acquisition of the Buckle family’s pig farming and rearing operations, in Yorkshire.
The deal includes the family’s 50% share of the White Rose Farms Limited pig production joint venture set up by Cranswick and the Buckle family in 2018. The enlarged pig enterprise, to be known as White Rose Farms, specialises in the production of Red Tractor assured pigs and will continue to be led by Rick Buckle, winner of the Overall Pig Producer award at the 2015 National Pig Awards.
Following its acquisition in December of Packington Pork, which specialises in British free range and outdoor pigs, this latest transaction further increases Cranswick’s self-sufficiency in UK pigs processed to over 30%. The Hull-based processor said the transaction reinforces its commitment to a sustainable and traceable farm to fork operation, in line with its Second Nature strategy.
Cranswick CEO Adam Couch, said: “I am pleased to announce today’s transaction, which further reinforces our strategic commitment to supporting and growing the British pig farming industry.
“We have worked with the Buckle family for over 25 years and we are delighted to welcome Rick, as Managing Director of White Rose Farms, and the wider team to Cranswick.”
Cranswick, which reported a 3.6% rise in pre-tax profits to £47.6 million in the six months ended September 30, 2019, recently announced its profits during the current financial year are set to exceed expectations as it continues to benefit from increased sales in Far East Asia.
