Baker to fast-track new factory after US investment

Evron Foods Group will create employment for 50 people at the 4,180m²​ production and innovation facility in Craigavon following the acquisition by Oklahoma-based Bama Companies.

Evron has been trading for 35 years and operates from two locations – Craigavon in Northern Ireland, and Pontypool in Wales, where it trades as Easybake Foods. 

Employing 360 staff, it makes frozen and chilled baguettes, rolls, loaves, flatbread and garlic bread for retailers, foodservice and manufacturing customers throughout the UK, Ireland, mainland Europe, the US and the Middle East. It has an annual turnover of £49m.

Two million biscuits a day​

Founded in Texas in 1927, Bama Companies has factories in the US, China and Europe, producing two million biscuits a day as well as handheld pies, buns, pie shells and pizza crusts for customers throughout the world.

Evron Foods managing director Morris Evans confirmed the deal would fast-track plans for the new production site in Craigavon, creating 50 jobs.

Paula Marshall, chief executive of Bama Companies, said the US company was “delighted”​ to make the strategic investment in Evron.

“Evron share our ethos of investment in people, quality and innovation,”​ Marshall said.

‘Ambitious plans’​

“Working with the existing management team we have ambitious plans for the continued success of the company including expansion of the customer base, product range and manufacturing facilities in Craigavon and Pontypool.”​

Neither company would be drawn on the percentage of the stake acquired by Bama.

Scots baker Bells Food Group, meanwhile, has secured planning permission for a new £500,000 cake facility​​ that is expected to create 10–15 jobs.