Panelto Foods, which specialises in in-store bakery speciality breads for the retail and foodservice markets, said that the new bread line will enable it to deliver new products that are designed to meet evolving consumer preferences and retail trends.
The firm employs 370 people and has now invested €40 million in its Longford campus since 2018, which now comprises of a bakery, R&D innovation centre and dedicated training hub.
The new bread line announcement was marked by a visit from Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Peter Burke, as well as CEO of Enterprise Ireland Jenny Melia.
Speaking during the visit, Panelto Foods CEO Garry Walsh said that the firm’s growth has been built off the back of a “culture and mindset of innovation”.
“Our insights and R&D team never stand still, and we have invested heavily in understanding consumer and retail trends, strengthening our R&D capabilities,” continued Walsh.
“Here in Longford, we have highly talented and dedicated workforce with people from over forty different nationalities, bringing a wealth of experience, perspectives and innovation to our business. We’re proud to be a significant employer in the Midlands and to continue delivering high-quality, exciting bakery solutions to our customers across Ireland and the UK.”
Burke then described Panelto Foods as an example of how “sustained investment in innovation and infrastructure can drive growth and competitiveness”.
“The Government, through Enterprise Ireland, has proudly supported Panelto’s journey, and today’s announcement reflects the strength of that partnership,” he added.
“This investment not only enhances the company’s capabilities but also reinforces its role as a key employer and contributor to the local economy in Longford, and management and staff should be extremely proud of the community they have built.”
Finally, Melia said: “This new €7 million capital investment further strengthens Panelto’s position as a leader in the sector and highlights the company’s commitment to Longford as a hub for innovation. Enterprise Ireland is proud to support Panelto Foods on its journey, and we look forward to working closely with Garry and the team as they continue to innovate and deliver world-class bakery solutions to customers at home and abroad.”
In 2023, Panelto Foods joined the European Bakery Group, a bakery platform headquartered in Tilburg which operates 11 bakeries across the Netherlands, Germany and Ireland.
