County Confectionery is investing £500,000 in the installation of a second production line at its kitchens in St Ives.
The expansion will give the company the capacity to double the levels of fudge production at its site, which currently employs 56 people. It will also double its turnover.
County Confectionery operations director Chris Brian told FoodManufacture.co.uk that increased demand for the company’s own-label products was coming from the UK multiples.
UK multiples
He said: “They recognise the company’s quality, high-end product, its efficient production capabilities and its stringent food safety systems. So it’s our customers’ preference to deal with County Confectionery rather than an increase in demand for fudge per se.
“Essentially, the company has continued to invest in the business and improve product and process and that is reflected in the strong order book.”
The company also produces its own Copperpot brand exclusively for the international market.
The expansion would enable the firm to export more volume of its Copperpot brand to Europe, Canada, Australia, the Middle East and the Far East.
Brian said: “Our growth is being constrained – not by a lack of demand – but by our capacity to produce our products. This second fudge production line will significantly improve our manufacturing capacity and enable us to sell more products both at home and abroad.
A very British brand
The recruitment process will be complete and the new line up and running by July.
Brian said: “Overseas consumers like the Copperpot brand because it is a very British brand, with good, clean packaging. The new production line will be essential to increasing the exports side of the business as their production ability is currently constrained by the existing facilities – ie they have demand already and this new production line with give them the ability to better meet this demand.
“We are creating jobs as a result of this move and that is positive for the local economy in Cornwall.”
The investment was supported by HSBC Commercial Bank.
Stephen Hancock, HSBC Cornwall area commercial director, said: “County Confectionery is a long-standing family business that is prepared to innovate and grow to stay relevant to its customer base. This forward-thinking company is looking forward to the future and HSBC is pleased to be able to support its growth.”