Northern Ireland-based snack manufacturer Kestrel Foods has announced a £5m (€6.7m) investment to expand production capacity and strengthen manufacturing efficiency at its Portadown facility, responding to rising international demand for its premium chocolate snack products. The investment reinforces automation and scaling strategies increasingly shaping food manufacturing operations targeting export growth.

The News Letter reported that the company will invest in advanced chocolate coating and polishing technology alongside expanded storage facilities at its Carn Industrial Estate site, supporting increased production volumes and new product development.

The project will create 38 jobs over the next three years while enhancing Kestrel Foods’ operational capability through greater automation across manufacturing lines. The company said the investment will improve productivity and support expansion into international markets.

Michael Hall, founder and managing director of Kestrel Foods, said: “Our products are developed and produced in Northern Ireland, where our artisan techniques, product innovation and manufacturing expertise come together to create premium snacks for customers around the world.”

He added: “To improve efficiency, we need to continue investing in automation across our production lines. Installing a new continuous chocolate coating and polishing line will significantly enhance productivity while supporting our continued growth and expansion into international markets.”

Invest NI has committed £350,000 (€468,000) in capital support through its Agri-Food Investment Initiative to support deployment of the new manufacturing systems.

Grainné Moody, director of food and drink at Invest NI, said the organisation will continue supporting Kestrel Foods’ market development, skills capability and export ambitions, including opportunities in European markets.

The investment reflects wider manufacturing sector trends where food producers are increasing automation and production flexibility to meet international demand while maintaining consistency and operational efficiency.

Explore the full details on Kestrel Foods’ £5m manufacturing investment.