Bernard Matthews confirms closure of Norfolk headquarters

Great Witchingham has been the home of Bernard Matthews since 1955

Poultry producer Bernard Matthews has confirmed the closure of its headquarters.

The company has been based at the site in Great Witchingham, Norfolk, since 1955 and employs about 600 people there.

The company previously said the factory had become "loss-making and not commercially viable".

A spokesperson said a "large majority" of affected staff would be offered roles at other locations in the region.

"Following a period of extensive consultations with colleagues, regrettably we can confirm that the proposal to close our site at Great Witchingham will now proceed," the spokesperson said.

"It is anticipated operations will cease at a date to be confirmed at the end of March.

"We understand this will be very disappointing news for all concerned and a very difficult time for colleagues, who we commend for acting in such a professional and courteous manner during this unsettling period.

"We are pleased to confirm that the large majority of colleagues will be offered roles at our five poultry processing locations in Norfolk and Suffolk.

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In 2023, Bernard Matthews reported losses of £10m, which was significantly lower than the £25m of losses it reported in 2022.

The company said it had carried out a review of its operations and now hoped to "invest and grow" its other sites in the East of England.

Bernard Matthews was bought by the British businessman Ranjit Singh Boparan in 2016, who founded the 2 Sisters Food Group, after company founder Bernard Matthews died in 2010.