Welsh poultry processor looks to expand creating 125 jobs

The company has submitted an application to 'vary a condition' to increase operations at the facility in order to double production from 1 million to 2 million birds per week. 

The company said that as there is an increase in demand for home grown poultry UK since the departure from the EU. 

New jobs

Maelor Foods’ increased operation aims to ensure that national retailers are able to source poultry from local farmers and growers and invest in the British food industry. 

If approved, as well as creating over 100 jobs, Maelor Foods said it would result in an annual boost of £20m across the local economy. 

“Since beginning operations at Pickhill Lane in 2014, we have gone from processing 400,000 to one million birds per week since April 2022. ​Across the UK, similar facilities are not limited on the number of birds they process. As a result, we have now submitted a variation of conditions application to Wrexham Council, asking to raise the restriction to 2 million birds a week,” ​said ​Ricky Mehta, a director at Maelor Foods. 

Economic and social benefit

“At a time when the price of food and goods is at the front of everyone’s mind, we hope that Wrexham Council recognises the economic and social benefit our proposals can bring and maximise the potential of existing facilities like ours at Pickhill Lane to help meet demand for well-priced, home reared poultry.” ​

The application was submitted to Wrexham Council on 12 September 2022. Wrexham will consult with a range of stakeholders and statutory bodies before reaching a decision. 

The plans submitted by Maelor Foods also include a new proposal, which will be funded by the company,  to further improve the A525/Pickhill Lane junction, to realign its positioning. 

The company currently employs 250 staff.