Haribo, the popular sweets manufacturer behind brands like Starmix, has officially opened a £35 million expansion at its Castleford production site. The investment includes a new warehouse facility and an additional production and packaging line at the Whitwood Common Lane site, which will support operations in both Castleford and Pontefract.
Official Opening by MP Yvette Cooper
Yvette Cooper, MP for Pontefract, Castleford and Knottingley, cut the ribbon at the opening ceremony. She said: "It was great to cut the ribbon at the opening of the new warehouse at Haribo’s Castleford site. I’m really pleased that the new warehouse will allow them to expand and continue to support 700 jobs across our area. Haribo are a brilliant manufacturer who have been at the heart of our towns for decades, carrying on our sweet making tradition."
Investment Details and Impact
The £35 million investment underscores Haribo's long-term commitment to West Yorkshire, where the company has operated for over 50 years. Phil Murphy, chief marketing officer of Haribo UK & Ireland, stated: "We've been part of West Yorkshire for more than 50 years and we're very proud to call it home. The region plays a hugely important role in Haribo’s success across the UK, from the products we make here through to the people, skills and manufacturing expertise that support our operations every day. Being the UK’s leading sweets manufacturer is something we are incredibly proud of, and this investment reflects the important role West Yorkshire continues to play in that success."
Construction and Local Partnerships
The construction of the new warehouse was led by Caddick Construction North East & Yorkshire. Steve Ford, regional managing director, commented: "It has been a privilege to work with Haribo on this impressive expansion project, which has been especially significant with Haribo making such a huge contribution to employment locally to our Wakefield head office. Together with our local supply chain partners, our team worked hard to deliver the new warehouse to a world-class standard to support Haribo’s high-calibre production. We’re proud to have played our part in this project, creating a facility that will have a lasting impact on Yorkshire’s manufacturing sector and the wider community."
Economic and Community Benefits
The expansion is expected to strengthen Haribo's manufacturing capacity and sustain around 700 jobs across the region. The new warehouse and production line will enhance efficiency and support the company's position as the UK's leading sweets manufacturer. The investment also highlights the importance of West Yorkshire as a hub for food manufacturing and skilled employment.
