Bernard Matthews Foods has announced the closure of its processing facility located on Shaftesbury Street South in Derby, with operations set to cease by the end of 2026. The company attributed the decision to substantial ongoing financial losses combined with various external pressures affecting its operations and supply chain.
The closure follows a consultation process involving employee and union representatives. Company leadership cited multiple factors contributing to the facility’s challenges, including broader economic conditions, geopolitical developments, and the lingering effects of recent global events. The company indicated it would work to support affected employees through potential reassignment to other locations within the broader organization and would cooperate with local entities to identify alternative employment opportunities for displaced workers.
This announcement represents the second significant closure for the company in recent years. Approximately two years prior, Bernard Matthews Foods had disclosed intentions to shut down operations at its main facility in Great Witchingham, Norfolk, the location where the company’s founder had originally established his business interests.
Bernard Matthews, the company’s founder, became notable in the 1960s as Europe’s largest turkey farmer and gained widespread recognition through his distinctive advertising presence. Under his leadership, the company expanded significantly into various poultry products, most notably achieving recognition for turkey-based snack products. The founder passed away in 2010.
According to corporate information, Bernard Matthews Foods maintains additional processing and manufacturing operations at facilities in Sunderland and Holton, Suffolk. Trade union Unite was sought for comments regarding the announcement.
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