Pilgrim’s UK invests £1.8m in Bodmin site

The investment has funded the installation of new high-speed packing lines and a storage racking system – which increases overall pallet size by 20% to 120 spaces.

Pilgrim’s has been able to expand its cooked bacon offer as a result and has further diversified its capabilities – it is now able to process more than 400 tonnes of gammon per week and 80 tonnes of cooked bacon.

Reducing greenhouse gases​

The business has also invested in greenhouse gas reduction projects to reduce electricity and gas usage on-site. This included the use of LED lighting throughout the site, sourcing more than half of its power from solar panels on the roof and plans to install further panels with the aim of going completely off-grid.

Daniel Inch, site director at Pilgrim’s UK, said: “Our Bodmin factory plays a vital role in the Pilgrim’s UK network. This package of investment forms part of our ongoing strategic focus on enhancing operations and increasing capacity across our UK business, while taking important strides towards our net zero commitment.

“These enhancements will help us continue to deliver high quality products while consistently maintaining 100% service levels, even during peak seasonal periods.

Investing in people​

“Investing in state-of-the-art equipment and renewable tech like this, alongside nurturing our 270-strong team of dedicated people, while encouraging new talent into the industry, are key to ensuring a bright future for our Bodmin site.”

An entire new forklift and electric pallet truck fleet have also been added, with built in card access and shock monitoring to increase the safety of workers.

Simon Taylor, commercial director at Pilgrim’s UK, added: “Our Bodmin site is known for the breadth of cooking styles we offer, as well as the consistent delivery of high-quality service and technical standards.

“This new investment has unlocked further potential and is attracting new customers keen to improve the quality of their cooked bacon range.”