Tesco support prompts £1.2M fish processing investment
The move involves a three-way partnership between Tesco, Farne Salmon and Macphie of Glenbervie, which has developed sauces to go with the responsibly-sourced fish.
Farne Salmon, which operates one of the largest salmon smoking facilities in Europe and was founded in 1982, confirmed that the fresh capacity will create 32 new jobs.
FoodManufacture.co.uk understands the company is the largest private sector employer in the Scottish Borders and has a strong relationship with Tesco, which began 15 years ago.
Farne Salmon, which is sole supplier of the Fish in a Flash range, claimed the move forms part of its drive to expand its activity in ‘added value’ fish products.
'Major investment'
“This is a major investment for our business and is a testament to our strong relationship with our partner Tesco,” said Craig Walker, chief executive of Labeyrie Fine Foods UK, Farne Salmon’s parent company.
“Over the last 30 years Farne Salmon has grown from strength to strength and now employs over 600 people providing valuable income that goes back into the local community.”
Simon Rose, business sector manager, food solutions, from Macphie of Glenbervie, said: “We were delighted to support both Farne Salmon and Tesco in the development of this exciting range of new products which provided additional jobs supporting the local Scottish economy.”
Fish in a Flash products
Tesco said the Fish in a Flash range, which first hit stores in April, had been developed “to reflect our customers’ demand for fresh, high-quality easy-to-cook fish in own label”.
Products include smoked Haddock with Cheddar and Spinach Mornay and Cod with Pea & Mint, with the best selling line being Salmon with Sweet Chilli, which is now in 1,200 Tesco stores.
The new facility was officially opened on August 5 by Michael Moore, Liberal Democrat MP for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk.
“It’s fantastic news for the local economy that 32 jobs have been created as a result of this investment, which just goes to show how businesses like Farne Salmon are thriving.”
