A major, multi-million contribution to the local economy by Kepak Merthyr and plans for future investment and expansion were highlighted during a visit to the meat processing site by Vaughan Gething, Minister for the Economy of Wales.
The Minister heard how the site contributed over £200 million annually to the local economy in wages and livestock purchase during a visit to the plant on the Pennygarnddu Industrial Estate, purchased by the Kepak Group in 2018.
Plans to boost the 850-strong workforce at Wales’s largest meat processing plant with the creation of another 150 jobs were also highlighted, underlining the site’s commitment to future growth alongside strengthening its partnerships with local suppliers.
Kepak Merthy’s General Manager Chris Jones commented: “We were delighted to welcome the Minister for the Economy, to showcase our world-class facilities and to highlight that in addition to our support for the local economy, we have invested over £30 million in modernising this flagship site since it was acquired five years ago, including a £16 million planned investment this year.
“Sustained investment of this kind, and equipping our workforce with the skills they need to benefit from long-term career opportunities, will ensure that Kepak Merthyr not only remains a major contributor to the regional economy, but also one of the area’s most significant employers.”
During his visit, the Minister enjoyed a tour of the site, including the new meat packing area which has undergone a major modernisation recently, doubling its packaging capacity, as part of a multi-million investment.
The Minister commented that Kepak Merthyr is “a progressive company providing opportunities for local people to develop their skills and forge a career within the food industry”.