Caerphilly-based Peter’s Food Service is to recruit a further 110 staff after a number of branded and own-label contract wins.

As a result of new supply deals with some of the UK’s leading brands and retailers, which Peter’s said it could not name for commercial reasons, the business will be moving to a two-shift operation later this month, which will require additional staff.

Recruitment is under way and the company said discussions had been held with staff affected by the closure of family-owned furniture business Triumph, in Merthyr, about filling some of the positions. Those left without work have been offered interviews for a number of jobs available.

The contract wins follow “extremely challenging market conditions”, according to managing director Mike Grimwood, who in particular noted an exceptional increase in raw material costs over the past few years. To combat this, Peter’s undertook a strategic review of its business.

“As a result of this review, a decision was taken to terminate several contracts which we considered unviable for the business, and to explore discussions with others where we identified mutually beneficial opportunities,” said Grimwood.

“In addition, we have invested heavily in innovative products that will aid us to diversify into new product areas while maintaining the core heritage products that Peter’s is famous for.

“These new deals are a consequence of that ongoing business review.”

The company, which manufactures baked goods including pies, pasties and sausage rolls, currently employs 730 staff and has annual revenues of £65m.