Pukka Pies is set to expand its factory in Leicestershire and create 150 jobs.
The business has submitted a planning application to Charnwood Borough Council for a production and distribution facility that will extend the company’s existing manufacturing and distribution complex at The Half Croft, Syston. Pukka hopes to get approval for the extension early next year.
In addition to the development, which has a 4,750sq m footprint, the plans include associated offices, parking and landscaping.
The application said the proposed development was designed to be in keeping with the character of neighbouring buildings and reflect the corporate image of the existing Pukka Pies factory.
Pukka described the move as “a great step towards futureproofing Pukka Pies’ continued growth in the national market and will have a positive impact on the local economy”.
“The proposal for the 50,000sq ft production and distribution facility marks our commitment to our existing team and the local area, and is expected to create 150 jobs,” added a spokesperson.
“The proposals have been very positively received by the local community and statutory authorities and we have a great deal of confidence that Charnwood Borough Council will assess the proposals expeditiously.”
2017 has been a busy year for Pukka, which announced an £8m brand relaunch in January and a marketing campaign that it later reported as generating £3.1m in incremental pie sales across retailers.
The business has also launched a premium range called Posher Pukka, which hits shelves in The Co-op in September, followed by a wider roll-out last month. The range comprises Chicken, Leek & Pancetta and Steak & Porter Ale.
In September, new CEO Deborah Ewan took charge of the business from Rachael Bouch, who left after five years to join food and drinks group SHS as group MD. Ewan previously worked at 2 Sisters and Greencore.
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