Genesis Crafty creates 35 jobs in £750k investment

The vacancies cover a wide spectrum of disciplines, including skilled and unskilled bakery team members, finishing team members, machinist operatives, packing team members, hygiene and washroom team members, goods-in team members, dispatch team members and supervisors and shift managers.

The bakery’s expansion plans come a year after McErlain’s Bakery – former owner of the Genesis Crafty brand – was saved from administration in a pre-pack deal​​ (August 2018). Paul Allen – owner of Northern Irish crisp manufacturer Tayto Group – acquired the business for an undisclosed sum, protecting the jobs of more than 250 workers.

The McErlain’s business was moved from administration to a creditors’ voluntary liquidation on 7 August 2019.

Building up the business ​

Commenting on the investment, Allen said: “We have consolidated our operations, refined our distribution and sought to build upon the strong relationships that we have with premium retailers across the UK and Ireland.​

“The appeal of the Genesis range has continued to grow and we have won a number of important new contracts for our all-year-round and Christmas products with some of the UK's most discerning retailers. This is an exciting era for the company and it is great to be looking for new staff to share in our journey.”​

Turnaround for the baker​

Genesis Crafty’s fortunes have turned around since its acquisition by Allen. Less than a month after being bought out of administration (September 2018), the baker recruited 40 extra members of staff in both full-time and part-time positions in the run-up to Christmas.

Speaking at the time, Allen said: “I’m delighted that the jobs at the factory have been secured and that Brian McErlain will be staying on as managing director. I’m now looking forward to seeing the company return to substantial, managed, successful growth and further investment in the future.”​​

Meanwhile, food and packaging wholesaler Indus Foods has secured a £1.5m investment​​ to create a manufacturing and production hub and create jobs.