George Eustice visits renewed Ambrosia site

The investment created more than 20 extra jobs, and the creamery now brings £30M to the local economy. Four new engineering apprentices were recruited, and updated factory equipment was bought, Premier Foods said.

Eustice said: “Our food manufacturing sector generates over £100bn for the economy and is bigger than cars and aerospace combined.​

‘A great example’​

“Premier Foods is a great example of a business which is investing in technology and skills to drive growth. These jobs and apprenticeships for Devon will help ensure every part of Britain benefits from a growing economy.”​

Premier Foods ceo Gavin Darby said: “We’re delighted to have the opportunity to show the minister the investment we’re making to grow our Ambrosia brand, as well as the important contribution we make to the regional economy in Devon and the south west.​

“As Ambrosia approaches its centenary year, we feel very confident about the future.”​

Premier Foods also recently invested £9.5M in mid-week meals. The investment was a 24% increase on last year, and will focus on new product launches for its Bisto and Oxo brands.

Growth in branded sales​

Meanwhile, the combined £21.5M investments came after Premier Foods reported its first-quarter trading update​. It reported a 0.8% growth in branded sales, whereas its non-branded sales rose almost 10%.

“Our category strategy of investing behind our brands continues to deliver results, despite the wider deflationary grocery market in the UK.”​