Sales rise at Hollands Pie maker
THE company behind Holland Pies and Fox’s Biscuits hailed a strong performance today with demand for its chilled and bakery products rising.
Northern Foods said underlying revenue in its bakery division was up 6.8% for the 13 weeks to June 27. Its investment in Fox’s, which employs 500 people at Kirkham on the Fylde Coast where Rocky bars are made, was supported by its third “Vinnie” TV and online advertising campaign.
The group said the TV campaign has been bolstered by activities on Facebook and Twitter, which resulted in increasing numbers buying the Fox’s brand.
Northern Foods said that underlying revenue in its chilled division grew by 9.2%, driven by the warm seasonal weather which has seen strong demand for sandwiches and salads.
The group, which also employs 400 at Holland Pies near Accrington, said frozen food revenue is down 1.5% following the closure of its original pizza manufacturing site in Ireland last year. However frozen pies and meat grills continue to perform well.
Chief executive Stefan Barden said: “We have made a good start to the new financial year.
“Our focus upon high quality products, to serve a range of tastes and budgets, positions us well to continue our progress. We have much more to do and have a range of initiatives to drive the business forward.”
