Stronger than forecast trading at food producer

East Yorkshire-based food producer, Cranswick, says trading since the end of the first quarter has been stronger than previously expected, as it publishes a half year update today.

The business says this trading was underpinned by continued robust volume growth in its core UK food business, a positive ongoing contribution from its expanding pig farming operations, and “industry leading service levels and a relentless focus on quality and innovation.” 

The firm adds it now expects its first half performance to be ahead of the same period last year.

It notes investment in its asset base continues, with a new houmous facility in Worsley, Manchester successfully commissioned during the period.

A spokesman for Cranswick said: “While we remain cautious about current market and wider economic and geopolitical conditions, following the strong volume growth delivered through the first half, our outlook for the current financial year ending 29 March 2025 is now expected to be towards the upper end of current market expectations of adjusted profit before tax of between £179.2m and £191.7m. 

“The Board remains confident that continued focus on the strengths of the company, which include its long-standing customer relationships, breadth and quality of products and industry leading asset infrastructure, will support the further successful development of the group over the longer-term.”