Family-run bakery business battling for survival

The bakery has been run by the Roberts family since it was founded in 1887

A family bakery business has confirmed it is in talks aimed at saving the 138-year-old company.

Cheshire-based Roberts Bakery announced on Monday that it was intending to appoint an administrator to help "secure the best possible outcome" and save as many jobs as possible.

A blaze at its Northwich factory two years ago resulted in the loss of two-thirds of production capacity for more than a year.

About 400 of the 700 jobs at the factory could be lost, said a company spokesperson.

'Exceptionally difficult period'

When news of the company's financial problems emerged in July, staff told the BBC they were "surprised" by plans to cut an initial 250 jobs.

"I'm trying to get my head round it," a worker who asked to remain anonymous said.

A new statement from Roberts said its priority was to safeguard jobs and preserve the company's brands.

"In recent years Roberts has faced an exceptionally difficult period, following a devastating fire, loss of production capacity and the resulting fall in market share," the statement read.

"These pressures have been compounded by unprecedented inflation since the invasion of Ukraine, rising energy and ingredient costs, and intense competitor activity."

Roberts said it faced "significant" economic challenges including the fact that "bread volumes have not rebounded as anticipated" since the June 2023 blaze.

Roberts produces two million loaves of bread a week

Although producing two million loaves of bread a week, Roberts has seen sales fall in recent years with turnover reducing from £96m in 2023 to £76m in 2024.

A spokesperson for Roberts Bakery said discussions were "well advanced with third parties" and the company was "optimistic about a positive solution".

Labour MP for Mid Cheshire Andrew Cooper said: "As one of Northwich and Winsford's biggest employers, it is vital that all options are explored with a view to continuing its 138-year history and securing as many jobs as possible."