Boxing champion to open packaging firm’s 50,000 sq ft factory extension

Former world champion boxer Carl Froch

Family-owned packaging firm The Wilkins Group has invited a very special guest to open its new 50,000 sq ft factory extension next month.

The Wilkins Group has extended its manufacturing facility

Four-time world champion boxer and Nottingham native Carl Froch will officially open the company’s expanded manufacturing facility at Colwick Industrial Estate on 7 December.

Wilkins says the multiple-title-winning ex-super-middleweight was “the obvious choice” to cut the ribbon on the facility – not least because his uncle, Mick Froch, has worked there for 46 years.

The pugilist’s childhood home also used to back onto the factory, and he recounts being chased off the site by security guards on several occasions.

Froch said: “Wilkins has been there for as long as I remember, so I’m delighted to return to support the opening of their impressive new factory.

“It’s quite funny and a little bit ironic that I used to be chased off the site when I was a kid – but now they’ve actually invited me there in an official capacity. At least I won’t have to climb over any garden fences!

“When I think of the Wilkins Group, I think of my childhood and my uncle Mick, who’s still working there. They’re very fond memories.”

The 50,000 sq ft extension will create dozens of extra jobs and “vastly” increase the firm’s food packaging production capacity.

Justin Wilkins, director at The Wilkins Group, said: “We’re so pleased that Carl threw his hat in the ring and agreed to come along and open our amazing new factory.

“Asking him to open the new premises was a unanimous decision and his involvement will really help to make this a knock-out event.

“The fact that he’s from Gedling in Nottingham, has family members connected to our firm and, of course, is into ‘boxing’ like we are, will make this a truly memorable occasion for everyone who’s worked so hard to get to this point.

“At this momentous stage in the company’s history, I would like to take this moment to thank all of our dedicated staff in playing their part in assisting us in our growth strategy.”

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