The Birds Eye and Findus owner’s investment will see the development of a new potato waffle production line at the site.
The move will see total waffle capacity increase to approximately 18,250 tonnes annually, equivalent to nearly 45 million potato waffles.
Nomad said the investment will serve as a key pillar in its broader, long-term productivity programme, which is focused on increasing efficiency, competitiveness and scale across the breadth of its manufacturing network.
The £2.2 million signposted for the new waffle production line will form part of a wider investment programme at the Lowestoft site, which also includes a recent £12 million outlay in chicken processing and the progression of plans for an on-site wind turbine.
The Woking-based manufacturer added that the investment plan showcases its commitment to the UK frozen food sector and to building supply chain resilience across its operations, at a time of growing pressure on food supply chains.
Eduardo Bachiega, Nomad Foods’ chief supply officer, said:“This latest investment at our Lowestoft site is testament to our long-term commitment to UK food manufacturing.
“By increasing our production capacity we’re directly responding to consumer demand for household favourites, such as potato waffles, that are already being manufactured 24/7 at the factory.”
He continued:“At a time of increasing pressure on global food systems, as well as ongoing cost-of-living challenges for consumers, we continue to invest in our operations, ensuring key frozen food categories such as fish, vegetables, chicken and potatoes remain an accessible food choice for families across the UK and Europe.”
Founded in 1949, the Lowestoft site spans more than 25 acres and is the largest private sector employer in the local area.
The factory produces Birds Eye chicken dippers, potato waffles, peas and coated fish, with a growing proportion of its output (around 15%) exported to Nomad’s other European markets.
