A Cadbury spokesman told FoodManufacture.co.uk this morning: “I can confirm that we have been approached by a number of potential developers and are currently in discussion with some of them to discuss their proposals in more detail.”
Kraft UK and Ireland corporate affairs director Jonathan Horrell added that he was hoping to join a conference call tomorrow to “discuss next steps” regarding a freehold sale of the 220 acre site.
Bids being analysed
BNP Paribas Real Estate marketed the Somerdale site on Kraft’s behalf, with best offers invited by an informal tender process ahead of a May 11 deadline, which was later extended into June.
A spokeswoman for BNP Paribas said: “Bids are now being analysed, and an announcement will be made in due course. There was a lot of interest in the site.”
“Clearance of the former Cadbury’s plant” is also being advertised by auctioneer Rabin Worldwide, which has scheduled July 19 and July 20 as dates for online or telephone bidders to acquire Somerdale kit.
Kit under hammer
Lots include bar making equipment for well-known brands such as Double Decker and Picnic, a Curly Wurly and Squerlies production floor and a Turkish Delight starchless moulding and enrobing line.
The hard copy Somerdale site sale brochure, sent to this publication, said the site and its many 1920s and 1930s building had potential “for development for a number of uses”, with a mixed-use residential development described as one possibility.
Around 600 residential units – with 20,000m2 of employment space – could be provided, said BNP Paribas, while the new buyer will have to either relocate or retain the Fry Club (a sports and social clubhouse for local residents) on the site.
“Somerdale presents a major opportunity to provide new, high quality employment space, homes, leisure, recreation and community facilities,” said the brochure.
“The site has exceptional potential for a new, distinctive high-quality neighbourhood, utilising its water meadow setting and the river for a mix of employment, residential and recreational uses,” it added.