Stobarts closes Bradford plant after strategic review

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Stobarts has decided to close its Bradford plant

Stobarts, the UK independent producer of pies and meat products, has closed its plant in Bradford after a strategic review of the business.

Stobart’s operated from the freehold production facility in West Yorkshire with a volume capability supplying pies, sausage rolls and other meat products under own brand and white label. 

A recent strategic review of the family-owned business, to reflect senior management exit plans, concluded with the decision to close the plant.  

Director Philip Stobart said: “A range of business and personal factors led us to undertake the review. Neil and I have led the company for over 40 years, building on the foundations of our forebears.”

Planning 

He added: “Covid expedited our planning and with no family succession or business buyer the structured wind down and realisation of the business assets was the natural conclusion. Our loyal customers, staff and suppliers have remained at the forefront of our thinking, and they have been updated as the process advanced.”

Chartered Surveyors, Walker Singleton, have been appointed to market and sell the property and assets of the business. 

Howard Eastwood, director in the machinery & business assets department said: “The production assets of the business are extensive encompassing meat processing and bakery related equipment geared to a volume output; the three main lines for pie and sausage roll production can run a combined output of up to 35,000 units per hour.

Family-run

"Typical to family run businesses, high regard has been placed on maintenance and upkeep of all equipment. An online auction will take place in June 2022 and will be a full site dispersal that will encompass all production equipment and support assets such as transportation, handling, packaging etc.”

Paul Diakiw, commercial property director at Walker Singleton, said: “The company have occupied the main production site for over 50 years. Its food production and storage capability, which retains Grade A+ BRC Accreditation, provides rare industry sector opportunity and the site is likely to have wider appeal to commercial and possibly residential developers in a market where prospects are restricted at this time.

"The 400-pallet fully racked cold store has niche appeal but is well sited in the City, offering businesses who perhaps currently pay a premium to rent cold store pallet space to own their own facility. I feel both properties will attract interest once marketing starts.”