Hundreds of jobs saved as historic biscuit factory sold
A deal has been struck to save a famous biscuit factory in Uttoxeter from closure after months of uncertainty, a move which saves 500 jobs.
Workers at the Elkes Biscuits factory were told in September the business was up for sale and all jobs were at risk.
But now the factory has been sold by 2 Sisters Food Group to Bernard Matthews owner Boparan Private Office for an undisclosed sum. The Boparan Private Office owns a number of food production and high street names including Carluccios, Giraffe and Ed’s Easy Diner.
It said it is now looking to build a sustainable long-term future for the site.
Uttoxeter Site director Kevin Hand said: “We’re really delighted to be able to continue the 100-year-old biscuit-making story in Uttoxeter now we have a new owner. The opportunity with the Boparan Private Office opens up a fresh new chapter for us and gives us the best possible chance to grow and develop the business.
“What became apparent last year when there was so much uncertainty about the future of the factory was just how much the local community loved and cared for Elkes Biscuits. Many generations of families have either worked here or still work here, and it clearly means so much to so many people.
“So to be able to announce this great news and save this site and the hundreds of jobs that go with it will hopefully bring a smile to many people’s faces. But the hard work starts now: we want to build a long-term sustainable business here and bring through more generations of people. There will hopefully be more opportunities for people locally as we grow with our new owner. It’s a very exciting time for all of us.”
A corporate statement from Elkes said: “We are very pleased to announce that Elkes Biscuits in Uttoxeter has been sold to the Boparan Private Office (BPO).
“This sale ends a period of uncertainty for the site after the consultation with colleagues at the end of last year about a proposed closure of the factory. We were always clear that we were looking to find a purchaser of the business as an alternative to closure, so it is very satisfying to successfully complete this transaction.
“This is good news for the business and the town, securing the immediate future of the site and keeping alive the 100-year biscuit-making heritage in Uttoxeter.”
