The manufacturer announced the recruitment drive during a visit by Welsh Economy Minister Vaughan Gething to its Merthyr site, said to be Wales’ largest meatpacking plant.
Kepak further reiterated its commitment to the local community with plans to strengthen its partnership with local suppliers.
Kepak personnel
Plans to bolster the 850-strong workforce are part of an investment program at the site since its takeover by Kepak in 2018, which saw the manufacturer commit £30 million to modernize the factory.
Chris Jones, managing director of Kepak Merthyr, said: “We were delighted to welcome the Minister for Economic Affairs, showcase our world-class facilities and highlight that, alongside our support for the local economy, we have invested over £30 million in modernizing this flagship site since the acquisition five years ago.
“Through this kind of sustainable investment and by equipping our workforce with the skills they need to take advantage of long-term career opportunities, Kepak Merthyr continues to make not only a significant contribution to the regional economy, but also one of the most important employers in the area. .”
New packing room
During his visit, the Minister was given a tour of the site, including the new meatpacking area which has recently undergone a major modernisation, doubling its packing capacity, as part of a multi-million pound investment.
Gething noted that Kepak Merthyr was “a forward-thinking company that provided opportunities for local people to develop their skills and build a career in the food industry”.
Meanwhile, Lurgan, Northern Ireland-based Classic Mineral Water has invested £3.4 million in the development of a third bottling line – supported by a capital grant from Invest Northern Ireland – as part of plans to expand its reach into the private label market and has created 16 new jobs.
