Major Investment Greenlit for Trowbridge Food Production Hub
Wiltshire Council has officially granted planning permission for a substantial £100 million state-of-the-art factory development in Trowbridge. The frozen food business Apetito, which owns the well-known brand Wiltshire Farm Foods, will construct the advanced manufacturing facility on the Canal Road Industrial Estate.
Securing Employment and Expanding Capacity
This significant project, named Kitchen West, is set to secure 700 existing positions while generating new permanent employment opportunities in the local area. According to council statements, the development will play a crucial role in regenerating a long-established employment site and bolstering the regional economy.
Apetito, recognized as the largest private employer in Trowbridge with approximately 670 of its 2,000 UK workforce based in the town, plans to utilize the new factory to dramatically expand its production capabilities. The facility will focus on manufacturing pre-prepared meals for essential sectors including hospitals, care homes, education providers, and various care services.
Strategic Development and Sustainability Focus
The Kitchen West facility will feature a six-line production plant, with three lines becoming operational initially and space allocated for three additional lines to be integrated as market demand increases. This expansion is strategically designed to complement Apetito's existing Kitchen East operations, which will continue functioning at full capacity.
Ian Stone, chief executive of Apetito and Wiltshire Farm Foods, expressed enthusiasm about the council's decision, stating: "We are delighted that planning permission for Kitchen West has been granted by Wiltshire Council, marking an important milestone in our ambition to lead the market with one of the most sustainable food production facilities in the UK."
Stone emphasized that the facility will support continued growth, enhance production capabilities, and maintain the delivery of high-quality meals to customers who depend on their services daily. He highlighted the company's pride in being a major local employer and described Kitchen West as an investment in both their workforce and the long-term future of their operations in Trowbridge.
Council Support and Economic Benefits
Councillor Helen Belcher, cabinet member for economic development, welcomed the approval as excellent news for Trowbridge. She noted that the investment will secure existing jobs, regenerate an important employment site, and create fresh employment opportunities throughout the development process.
The new factory will incorporate strong sustainability principles while increasing production capacity. This approach aims to future-proof Apetito's operations, alleviate pressure on the current Kitchen East site, and support the company's expanding business activities. The development represents a strategic move to strengthen Apetito's market leadership while contributing positively to the local community and economy.
