Free-from biscuit growth creates jobs at Northumbrian Fine Foods

The recruitment drive comes after a year of ‘significant growth’ for the manufacturer, which produces both supermarket own-label and Prewett’s-branded biscuits.

According to the company, which was purchased by Biscuit International in 2018, the year-on-year growth has been driven by strong performance within the gluten-free biscuit and cookies category.

The firm said it has also strengthened its co-manufacturing business and the roles, including bakery operations and office-based vacancies, are being created as the company responds to ‘increasing demand’ for its free-from biscuits and cookies from major retailers including Morrison’s, Sainsbury’s, Asda and Tesco in the UK, and across Europe.

‘Increasing demand’​

Neil McAndry, managing director of Northumbrian Fine Foods, said: ​“Driven by our role as a ‘centre of excellence’ in free-from production we have enjoyed increasing demand for our products over the last few years. As a result of this growth, we have made the decision to expand our operating hours by 20%, creating over 50 new roles right here in the North East.​

“We’ve continued to invest in our Gateshead manufacturing facilities and in the local team we employ, and we are in the process of rolling out a best-in-class training and development programme for the operational workforce that will give everyone the chance to learn and progress within the business. It is really important that we look after our employees and ensure we provide everyone with the opportunity to develop and progress.”​

Experience sought​

NFF said it is particularly interested in talking to people with food manufacturing experience, especially flow wrap operators, batch mixers and depositor/oven operators. In addition to several packing vacancies, the company will also be recruiting more front-line supervisors.

“We are an inclusive organisation and we would encourage anyone willing to work hard and be part of a growing and exciting team to apply for a role with us,” said McAndry. ​

“We are keen to hear from individuals who want to develop themselves and those looking to continually build on their current skill set. The company’s growth is a direct result of the dedication and resilience of the Northumbrian Fine Foods workforce and we will continue to invest in our people as demand for our products increases.”  ​

Westray Recruitment Group will be responsible for recruitment of the new roles.